The FiTech 30005 Easy Street Series is a pre-programmed electronic fuel injection (EFI) system designed for naturally aspirated small-block engines, offering a straightforward installation process and performance benefits for classic and modern vehicles alike. This article provides a detailed exploration of the system’s features, technical considerations for installation, and insights from user experiences, all based on the available documentation and user feedback.
Overview of the FiTech 30005 Easy Street Series
The Easy Street Series is part of FiTech’s broader Street Series lineup, which includes the Go Street and Meanstreet models. The Easy Street is specifically tailored for engines producing between 250 and 600 horsepower, making it suitable for a wide range of naturally aspirated small-block configurations. The system is designed with a classic aesthetic, resembling a factory carburetor, yet it delivers the precision and efficiency of modern fuel injection.
The Easy Street system is compatible with squarebore intake manifolds and requires minimal inputs to function. It is engineered to accept a tach signal from various sources, including the coil negative, an HEI distributor, or a CD ignition box, which simplifies the installation process for users with different ignition setups.
A notable feature of the system is the inclusion of a wideband O2 sensor, which allows the ECU to self-adjust the air-fuel mixture based on real-time data. This results in improved performance across a broad RPM range, from idle to high RPM.
The system is backed by a 12-month warranty and is manufactured in China (Country of Origin: CN). It also adheres to U.S. safety standards, including a California Proposition 65 warning regarding potential cancer and reproductive harm.
Technical Requirements and Considerations for Installation
The installation of the Easy Street system requires attention to several technical considerations, particularly concerning the ignition system and power supply.
Tach Signal Input Options
The system can accept a tach signal from multiple sources:
- Coil Negative: This is a standard method used in many classic vehicle setups.
- HEI Distributor: HEI (High Energy Ignition) distributors are common in GM vehicles and provide a reliable tach signal.
- CD Ignition Box: For vehicles using a CD (Capacitive Discharge) ignition system, the signal can be sourced from the ignition box.
User feedback suggests that HEI distributors with mechanical tach output are relatively easy to source, which makes them a practical choice for installation. However, if issues arise with the distributor, users may need to troubleshoot or replace the component.
Power Supply Requirements
The system requires a clean 12-volt power source that remains active during both the start and run phases of the engine operation. For some vehicles, this can be a straightforward installation, but in others—such as the Challenger—it may require the use of a timing circuit relay to ensure a stable power supply to the ECU. These relays are designed for ease of installation and can be placed in accessible locations, reducing the need for extensive under-dash work.
Users have reported that these relays often come with user-friendly apps for configuration, eliminating the need for complex wiring or trigger wires that were previously required.
Fuel System Considerations
The installation of an EFI system also necessitates a robust fuel delivery system. The Easy Street system is compatible with a variety of fuel pumps and regulators, including those from Aeromotive and Holley. Users have implemented configurations such as:
- Aeromotive A1000 fuel pump with inline regulator and speed controller
- Holley Stealth Sniper EFI system with inline or drop-in pump setups
For users concerned with the ease of future maintenance, some have opted for top-access fuel pump systems that allow for pump replacement without emptying the gas tank. These systems are often custom-built or modified from older sending units.
Installation Challenges and User Experiences
Installation experiences vary based on the vehicle and the user’s familiarity with EFI systems. A user who installed the system on a 1966 Mustang 289 engine using the FiTech command center canister reported initial issues but noted that the system functioned reliably after resolution. Another user installed the system on a 1972 Challenger 340 and initially used the FiTech Sniper with an inline pump but later replaced the pump due to heat-related performance issues.
These experiences highlight the importance of proper installation, including strategic placement of components such as fuel pumps and regulators to avoid overheating or mechanical stress.
Compatibility and Performance
The Easy Street system is designed to work with a wide range of naturally aspirated small-block engines, making it a versatile choice for classic car restorations and performance upgrades. It is particularly well-suited for applications where a balance between simplicity and performance is desired.
Users have noted that the system performs well in a variety of setups, including those with mild roller cams and beefier cams that benefit from sequential port injection for improved idle and drivability. The system’s adaptability and ease of tuning make it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking to modernize their classic vehicles without extensive engine modifications.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
While the Easy Street system is generally reliable, users have encountered a few common issues during installation and operation:
- Tach Signal Interference: In some cases, improper grounding or signal routing can lead to erratic tach readings. Ensuring a clean signal path and proper grounding is critical.
- Fuel Pump Heat Issues: Fuel pumps mounted near exhaust components (e.g., mufflers) may experience heat-related performance degradation. Relocating the pump or using a heat-resistant mounting solution is recommended.
- ECU Programming Conflicts: Some users have reported initial programming conflicts with the ECU, particularly with new or early versions of the system. These issues are typically resolved through updated firmware or reprogramming.
Alternatives and Market Considerations
While the Easy Street system is a strong option for naturally aspirated engines, users have also explored alternatives such as the Holley Stealth Sniper and other EFI systems. These alternatives are often praised for their long-term support and feature sets, though they may come at a higher price point.
Users have also noted that the availability of components such as HEI distributors and timing relays has improved over time, making installation easier for those without extensive electrical experience. Additionally, the growing availability of online resources and community forums has helped users troubleshoot and configure their systems more efficiently.
Conclusion
The FiTech 30005 Easy Street Series offers a compelling option for users seeking to upgrade naturally aspirated small-block engines with a reliable, user-friendly EFI system. Its compatibility with a range of ignition setups, ease of installation, and performance benefits make it a practical choice for classic car restorations and performance builds alike. While installation challenges can arise, particularly with fuel system components and power supply routing, these are often manageable with careful planning and attention to detail.
As more users adopt EFI systems for their classic vehicles, the availability of supporting components and resources continues to grow, further enhancing the feasibility and appeal of such upgrades. Whether for a 1966 Mustang, a 1968 Corvette, or a 1972 Challenger, the Easy Street system represents a bridge between traditional engine design and modern fuel injection technology.