Nexus Plug-in ECU - GM Delco
Overview
Congratulations on your purchase of a Nexus GM Delco Plug-in ECU. This vehicle-specific product allows you to seamlessly integrate a Nexus ECU into your vehicle without the complexity of wiring. With this hassle-free solution, you can start tuning right away.
Nexus ECUs are at the forefront of engine management systems, featuring cutting-edge technology and innovative features. Designed for the next generation of automotive enthusiasts and professionals, this state-of-the-art ECU combines powerful engine control with a range of additional functionalities, making it a versatile and comprehensive solution for everything from everyday driving to high-performance racing. With full compatibility across a wide range of Haltech devices, it simplifies engine configuration and additional functionalities, all programmable through a single software platform.
Supported Models
• Holden Commodore VN-VP V6 (DFI module), automatic and manual transmissions
• Holden Commodore VN-VP V8 (Distributor), automatic and manual transmissions
• Holden Commodore VR-VS V8 (Distributor), manual transmissions only; Does not support VS Series III
• Holden Commodore VR V6 (DFI module), manual transmission only
What’s in the box?
• Nexus GM Delco Plug-in ECU
• Air temperature + wideband expansion harness
• Air temperature sensor (1/8 NPT)
• Aluminum weld on fitting 1/8 NPT -27 TPI for air temp sensor
• Mounting brackets and hardware
• 2.5m vacuum hose and T-piece
• Haltech USB-C cable
• Quick start guide
Optional Accessories (sold separately)
• HT-189002 - IO Expansion Harness 2.5m (8’)
• HT-010746 - LSU4.9 Wideband Hardware Pack
Nexus Plug-In ECU Overview
Nexus Plug-In ECU Specs
Installing the NSP Software
1. Download the NSP installer - Go to the Haltech website (www.haltech.com), navigate to the ‘Downloads’ section, and click on the download link.
2. Run the installer file - Go to the Haltech website (www.haltech.com), navigate to the ‘Downloads’ section, and click on the download link.
3. Launch Haltech NSP - Once the installation is complete, you can launch the Haltech NSP software from the Windows ‘Start’ menu or using the desktop shortcut that was created.
Going online with the ECU
With the NSP software open, connect the supplied Haltech USB cable between your laptop and the USB-C port on the front of the Nexus Plug-in ECU.
The USB connection allows the NSP software to automatically recognize the ECU and activate it in low-power mode. This enables you to start setting up the ECU using the Setup Wizard before installing the ECU in the vehicle. In low-power mode, the ECU’s inputs and outputs are disabled, allowing you to safely configure your vehicle setup before installation and full power activation.
Setting up Wireless Communications
Wireless communication is another method for connecting the Nexus Plug-in ECU to your laptop or mobile device (see Haltech Connect App), serving as an alternative to a USB connection once the Wireless module is enabled.
To set up your Wireless connection follow these steps:
1. Open NSP and connect your Nexus Plug-in ECU using the provided USB-C cable.
2. Click on ‘Connections’ in the navigation tree and enable the Wireless module.
3. Under ‘Connections’, select ‘Wireless’ to set up your SSID and password. Note that your SSID must be at least 1 character long, and your password at least 8 characters. Click ‘Apply’.
4. Power up the ECU using main power (ignition switch on), then go to your computer’s Network settings. Connect to your Nexus Plug-in ECU by selecting your chosen SSID and entering your password.
NOTE: The Wireless antenna is internal on the Nexus Plug-in ECU. The unit must be powered by the main power source for Wireless communication. Up to two computers can connect to the ECU via Wireless, and one via USB-C, at any given time. When the Wireless module is disabled, it is completely inactive and held in an OFF state.
Haltech Connect App
The Haltech Connect App enables you to connect wirelessly to and interact with your Haltech Nexus Plug-in ECU via your smartphone or tablet. View real-time data from the ECU, set up basic gauges, clear DTCs, assign wiring, and adjust select parameters. Available for free on Google Play (Android) and the Apple App Store (iOS).
Nexus Plug-In Setup Wizard
The NSP software, when used with a Nexus Plug-in ECU, features a comprehensive setup wizard designed to create a basemap tailored for your specific application. The process begins with naming your vehicle, which creates a dedicated folder on your laptop for saving maps and datalog files. You also have the option to add a vehicle description—a useful feature for quickly identifying different map versions.
Next, select your vehicle and engine type from the list of models supported by the ECU. Then, configure application-specific options such as fuel injectors and ignition systems.
The following steps involve selecting the auxiliary harness you’re using, which allows the ECU to assign I/Os to specific sensors, including a wideband O2 sensor, pressure sensors, a flex-fuel sensor, and more.
After completing these steps, NSP presents a summary of your selections for confirmation, allowing any necessary adjustments before finalizing the setup. This thorough process ensures that the Nexus Plug-in ECU is optimally configured to start and run the engine with your own base tune.
Application Specific Notes
This Nexus Plug-in ECU is compatible with the following vehicles:
• Holden Commodore VN-VP V6 (DFI module), automatic and manual transmissions
• Holden Commodore VN-VP V8 (Distributor), automatic and manual transmissions
• Holden Commodore VR-VS V8 (Distributor), manual transmissions only; Does not support VS Series III
• Holden Commodore VR V6 (DFI module), manual transmission only
1. Wizard setup - Ensure that the ECU is correctly set up using the NSP software wizard, or that a correct map is uploaded to the ECU, before powering the unit through the vehicle.
Please note that the wizard setup or base map serves only as a starting point, and the ECU will require appropriate tuning. Haltech is not responsible for any engine damage resulting from the improper use of base maps.
2. Air Temperature Sensor - The factory air temperature sensor can be used, or replaced with the one included in the kit.
3. Throttle body - This Nexus Plug-in ECU only supports cable throttle body systems.
4. Forced Induction -This Nexus Plug-in ECU supports engine modifications to accommodate forced induction (e.g. boost control) using the available outputs in the auxiliary connector.
5. Wideband O2 - For tuning and closed loop O2 control, a Bosch LSU 4.9 or NTK sensor must be connected via the auxiliary connector port.
6. MAP Sensor - If the vehicle is equipped with a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, its signal is not used. Instead, the ECU’s onboard 4‑bar MAP sensor must be connected to a vacuum port on the intake manifold using the included vacuum hose, or by installing the T‑piece inline with the fuel pressure regulator vacuum hose. The onboard 4‑bar MAP sensor can also replace and upgrade MAP sensor–equipped vehicles that normally use a 1‑bar sensor.
7. DFI module and Ignition Bypass - This Nexus Plug-in ECU only supports distributor ignition systems or coil packs equipped with a DFI module. The DFI modules operate in a unique way, allowing the ignition system to fire the ignition coils independently while cranking the engine, even without an ECU timing signal. This is achieved by firing off the edges of the crank sensor signals
Auxiliary Connector
Nexus Plug-in ECUs are fitted with a 26-pin auxiliary connector that can be used to wire in sensors or devices not available in the vehicle from the factory.
The ECU also includes an expansion harness that plugs into the auxiliary connector and can be conveniently routed within the engine bay. The included expansion harness (HT-189000) provides a connector for a Haltech air temperature sensor, which can be used in place of the factory sensor—integrated into the air flow meter. A wideband O2 sensor plug is also included and is controlled directly by the ECU’s onboard wideband O2 controller, allowing direct connection to a wideband hardware pack. A set of spare pins is also provided for the 26-pin connector, enabling the addition of sensors such as fuel and oil pressure sensors, flex fuel sensors, or custom DPO functions (e.g. boost control) that can be configured in the NSP software.
Pinout information for these connections is provided on the next page. To place pins into the auxiliary connector:
1. Push bottom tabs to unlock
2. Insert pin into harness side of connector
3. Push top tabs to lock
Auxiliary Connector Pinout
IO Expansion Harnesses
In addition to the basic expansion harness included, Haltech offers an optional I/O expansion harness (sold separately) to conveniently support common sensor upgrades for your Nexus Plug-in ECU. This expansion harness is terminated with connectors for sensors such as a Haltech wideband hardware pack, flex fuel composition sensor, oil pressure sensor, fuel pressure sensor, and air temperature sensor. It also includes spare pins for connecting additional outputs available on the 26-pin connector.
Nexus Plug-In ECU Installation
The Nexus GM Delco Plug-in ECU replaces the factory unit, which is located behind the passenger-side kick panel. To access this location, the kick panel trim cover must be removed. The dimensions of the Nexus Plug-in ECU allow the cover to be reinstalled afterward.
The Nexus Plug-in ECU includes a mounting bracket and screws for installation in this location. Please note that the bracket design is compatible only with Australian Domestic Models supported by this ECU.
Haltech CAN System
The Nexus Plug-in ECU is equipped with an onboard CAN connector for direct connection to a wide range of Haltech CAN expansion products.
Multiple CAN devices can be used simultaneously by linking them together using Haltech CAN cables and a Haltech CAN hub. Examples of Haltech CAN devices include the Haltech uC-10 display dash and the Haltech CAN keypad. The dash allows user-selected ECU or engine parameters to be displayed on a customizable screen, while the keypad enables you to scroll through multiple screens or control other functions managed by the ECU.
Additionally, a Nexus IO16 can be added to expand input and output functionality via the Haltech CAN system, supplementing the onboard capabilities of the ECU.
The diagram on the right illustrates an example of how to connect these Haltech CAN devices (sold separately).
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