VCM/ECO Mode - Harware? Software? A little of both?

[Mikeyworks]

I have an '07 Pilot 4WD and after driving my father's '06 Pilot 2WD with VCM/ECO mode, I got to thinking.

- Is the VCM a hardware configuration, a software configuration, or a bit of both?

- What would it take to incorporate VCM/ECO mode on a 4WD model?

We didn't buy the Pilot for it's fuel economy, granted. But I know many of us are looking to maximize our fuel economy these days, and every little bit helps.

Thx,
M

[youbetcha]

Originally posted by Mikeyworks
I have an '07 Pilot 4WD and after driving my father's '06 Pilot 2WD with VCM/ECO mode, I got to thinking.

- Is the VCM a hardware configuration, a software configuration, or a bit of both?

- What would it take to incorporate VCM/ECO mode on a 4WD model?

We didn't buy the Pilot for it's fuel economy, granted. But I know many of us are looking to maximize our fuel economy these days, and every little bit helps.

Thx,
M

It is hardware and software, and I don't believe a conversion is possible. It isn't even the same VTEC implementation.

[whizmo]

There is definitely hardware involved. When the VCM system deactivates a cylinder, solenoids in the i-VTEC system have to disengage the cam from the valves so that they remain closed, otherwise pumping losses moving air through the deactivated cylinder would be horrendous and gas mileage would go drastically down, not up.

There's LOTS of stuff involved here.

- Mark

[Eatskittens]

They have to seal off the inactive cylinders. which in turn creates a "air-spring" to assist piston movement across the rest of the crankshaft.