General

Commander — Software Download & Install

~5 min

Before you can flash with the Commander, install its software and USB drivers on your Windows laptop or computer. Download both programs below, then prep your truck using the safety steps. Questions? Email info@empirediesels.com.

READ BEFORE FLASHING. Put a REAL high-quality battery charger on the truck at 12V / 15A and keep voltage above 12.5V for the entire flash — never use a jump box. If voltage drops below 12.5V, ECM damage can occur; do not flash under 12.5V. Use fresh batteries (under ~12 months old — battery quality has dropped hard since 2020, and older batteries may not hold flashing voltage).

Steps

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    Use fresh batteries

    Make sure your batteries are newer — under about 12 months old. Since 2020, the average battery only holds proper tuning voltage for around a year, so older batteries may not sustain the voltage a flash needs.

  4. 4

    Unplug aftermarket accessories

    Unplug any aftermarket accessories and pull their fuses before you begin.

  5. 5

    Put a battery charger on the truck

    Connect a real, high-quality battery charger set to 12V and 15A to keep voltage above 12.5V while flashing. Do not use a jump box. If volts drop below 12.5V, ECM damage can occur — do not flash if under 12.5V.

  6. 6

    Tune before removing any parts

    Always tune the truck before removing parts — don't remove anything until tuning is complete. Be gentle with every hardware and cable connection: don't force anything, make sure each plug is fully seated, and double-check everything before programming.