Auto Racing: Learning to Tune, combustion chamber, having a great time

Question
QUESTION: I have been throwing performance parts on my car for many years now but have never learned how to properly tune. I was wondering how I learn and what type of equipment is needed to do a tune. I am a MINI enthusiast and currently own a 04' JCW

ANSWER: Hello Mike , sorry for the delay in my reply but i have been quite busy racing last few weeks !!

So your question.  Basically a better word for tuning is improving.  You have been throwing performance parts at your car , thus improving the performance therefore you have been tuning , simple.  However i think what you want to know is why these parts are improving your performance ie "performance cams" will give more valve lift or longer duration which will let more air/fuel into the combustion chamber and produce more Bhp.

So it really depends on exactly what you have been fitting to your car for me to explain what a proper tune is in your particular case.

For me a "proper tune" means anything that improves your cars performance.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hey Matt,
Thanks for the reply. I am actually referring to ECU tuning, such as putting it on a dyno and tuning the computer to get the most out of the after market; injectors, intake, ignition system... etc. I was curious if you have any recommendations for software, hardware or anything else. I hope you've been winning your races or at least having a great time.
Thanks Again,
Mike

Answer
Ok Mike now i understand !!

Yes your absolutely right.  Running your engine on a dyno could increase the BHP by up to 40% depending on how well it was running in the first place.  This is called mapping.  You basically make a map (like a 2d chart)for the amount of fuel/ignition at different rev points Vs throttle position.

As for recommending software for this you are best off seeing your local engine tune specialist as most of the experience i have is with specific race systems such as Bosch and EFi which are incredibly expensive especially for road use.  However if cost isn't to much of an issue i would recommend you get in contact with Ole Bule racing , I belive he makes a piggy back ECU for road use so you can keep all the current electronics on your car.

Simply google "Ole Buhl racing" or OBR or EFi Italy.

Hope this helps mate !