Article Contents
Overview
ZFG Racing's Custom Tunes for the 2020-2025 Explorer ST are the ultimate tune to truly dial in your Explorer ST, regardless of whether it's completely stock or a fully-modified race machine. ZFG has tune options for every type of use, including Daily Driver, Towing, Performance, and Race, each dialed in for a precise feel that optimizes your ST's drivetrain for the most efficient performance. With just a 93 Octane Performance Tune, you can see up to a 100WHP gain on a stock Explorer ST, with even more gains if mixed with ethanol, such as an E30 or E50 blend. While you'll gain big power, you'll also notice an improved throttle response, smoother acceleration and shifting, and an overall improved driving experience, making your ST feel like an entirely different vehicle.
Custom Tuning Guide
Custom tuning made easy with HP Tuners RTD4. With HP Tuner's new RTD4 and TDN App, the tuning process has never been easier for the average enthusiast, allowing you to do everything from flashing the tune file onto the vehicle's ECU to data logging your vehicle's performance all through your iPhone or Android smartphone. Even better, HP Tuners has the process almost automated, requiring very little steps on the user's behalf.
Download the TDN App and Connect Your RTD4
Once you receive your RTD4, you'll need get it connected to the TDN Network and get it updated before use. In order to do this, follow the steps in the TDN App that will show once you open it for the first time, which involves plugging in the RTD4 and getting it connected to the phone. Once connected, the device will automatically update using your phone's internet source, whether it's WiFi or Cellular Data. Once updated, you should see the main menu showing your Lethal Performance RTD4. If you have not already, create an HP Tuners TDN account and/or log in. You are now ready to read the stock file.
Read the Stock File
Once you have ZFG as a "Linked Tuner" using their provided invite code, you can read the stock tune by selecting "Flash", then "Read Vehicle", and then follow the prompts in order to properly turn on the vehicle but not starting the engine. The TDN App should automatically start reading the stock tune file and will automatically upload this file to the TDN Server. Once completed, you will receive a message stating "Your vehicle tune had been read and sent to your linked tuner". Per ZFG's instructions, you must submit a "TDN Request for Stock Calibration" on their website through "Tuning Central". Fill out the Request Form and Submit.
Load the ZFG Racing Baseline File
After a couple of days, you should receive a Base File from ZFG in your TDN App. You will also receive an email from ZFG for further instructions for data logging. Before you start this process, ensure you have a strong internet connection AND make sure not to leave the application while the program is flashing. To flash the vehicle, simply plug in your RTD, open the TDN App on your phone, tap "Flash", identify and tap the new ZFG Tune File, and tap "Write". Follow the prompts as they appear on your phone. Once completed, you'll receive a message to turn off your vehicle, followed by a 10 second timer, and then instruction to turn it back on. Once completed, you should see a "Complete" message and be brought back to the "Flash" menu.
Datalog Your Vehicle
Per the email you should have received from ZFG Racing, after you load the base file, you will need to perform a pull in your vehicle while running a datalog. For our tune, ZFG instructed either a 3rd or 4th gear pull from 2500 to 6000RPM. To do this, you need to have the RTD plugged in and the TDN App open on your phone. Select "Data Log" from the main menu and once you're able and ready to perform the pull, tap "Start". The data log should start and should already be pre-loaded with the correct parameters ZFG needs to see. Once the pull is complete, you can tap "Stop". Once stopped, you can view all your data logs and upload the one you just performed by tapping "Upload". Once completed, ZFG has you fill out another form on their Tuning Central site named "Data Log Review". Once submitted, they will review your datalog and make changes to the tune, as needed.
Load the Revised Tune File and Repeat
Within a couple days, ZFG will send a revised tune file for your vehicle. Repeat the prior 2 steps for loading the new tune file and datalogging. We only had one datalog and revision until ZFG was satisfied with the tune's performance, however, depending on the mod list and your specific vehicle, it may take more revisions/datalogs to correctly dial in your vehicle. During this time, it would be opportune for you to give feedback, if you have any, as to the way the car drives, such as shifting aggressiveness and throttle response. Once the datalog looks good, ZFG will send an email letting you know the tune is complete!
Stock Tune vs ZFG 0-60 Results
For the best real world testing, we enlisted the help of a Dragy to record 0-60 times on our "closed course". We tested both the Base tune file and the revised tune file from ZFG Racing, as well as when the vehicle was on the stock tune.
With the Stock Tune, the best 0-60 time we got with our 2025 Explorer ST was 5.62 seconds, which is pretty great for an SUV in 90 degree South Florida Summer weather. With the baseline ZFG tune, we dropped .4 seconds, making it to 60 in 5.2 seconds, which is impressive... but we wanted more! With the final revision of the ZFG tune, we made it to 60 in 4.93 seconds... while spinning!
Now it is important to note, this is a RWD variant of the Explorer ST and thus, we cannot quite get all the newly-made power to the ground on a dig, at least without a stickier tire. However, with all the spinning, 4.93 on the street is no joke for a mostly stock Explorer ST. The only mods are a CVFabrication Intercooler, FenFab V2 Intakes, and an AWE Touring Catback Exhaust.
| Tune | Best 0-60 Time |
|---|---|
| Stock Tune | 5.62 seconds |
| ZFG Baseline Tune | 5.2 seconds |
| ZFG Final Revision | 4.93 seconds |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ZFG Racing have tunes for other vehicles?
Yes, they have custom tunes available for pretty much all things Ecoboost, including F-150, Bronco, Bronco Raptor, Ranger, Expedition and many more.
What if I tow with my Explorer ST but want a race tune as well?
ZFG Racing has options for additional tunes, which you can simply flash the vehicle with using your phone and the RTD4. However, ZFG can make a custom tune file for both Towing and Performance, if you'd rather have 1 tune only.
Do I have to retune after I install a new mod?
It depends on the mod. ZFG designs their tunes to automatically adapt to changes in airflow, charge temperature, and other key parameters, so basic bolt-ons like intakes and intercoolers typically don't require a revision at all. However, much more complex components like Fuel System may require a re-tune.
How long does the entire process typically take?
While it depends on how modified your vehicle is, most custom tunes can be completed with 5-7 business days from the date of basefile delivery. It typically takes 2-3 days for ZFG to review a datalog and adjust the tune file, so it truly depends on how many revisions have to take place.
Dial In Your Explorer ST
Up to a 100WHP gain on 93 octane, even more on an E30 or E50 blend, plus Daily Driver, Towing, Performance, and Race options. Tunes authored by ZFG Racing.
