Goleby's Parts x Haltech Nexus Rebel JZ Ultimate Guide
The Nexus Rebel JZ ECU is one of Haltech’s advanced engine control units in the Nexus range, offering additional functionality beyond simply controlling your Toyota JZ engine. It functions not only as an engine control unit but also as a wideband O2 controller, a data logger, and a Wi-Fi module, all integrated into a single unit. With its innovative and user-friendly technology, the Rebel JZ ECU sets a new standard in the market for Toyota JZ engine management and here at Goleby's Parts we are thrilled. Goleby's was lucky enough to get early access to this and made their 1JZ powered Dyna truck so much easier.
Paired with a Nexus Rebel JZ terminated harness, it provides a comprehensive range of performance and tuning capabilities for the following Toyota JZ engines:
1JZ-GTE Non-VVT-i
1JZ-GE VVT-i
1JZ-GTE VVT-i
2JZ-GTE Non-VVT-i
2JZ-GE VVT-i
2JZ-GTE VVT-i
Goleby's Parts has the Ultimate Rebel JZ Package that will not only get you started with the Haltech Nexus Rebel JZ but also add supporting mods including a BPP Fuel rail and Bosch Motorsport 1000cc injector kit and a Goleby's Parts R35 Coil Conversion Kit and finishing it with the option of a digital dash making it the best value deal for you JZ on the market!
Features:
Terminated engine harness and in-cabin connections
Connectivity for Haltech CAN devices (e.g., dash displays, keypads, etc.)
The Nexus Rebel JZ ECU allows connection to your laptop via the Nexus Software Programmer (NSP) using the supplied USB cable, without the need for +12V power. This feature conveniently lets you set up your ignition, injector, and various other outputs before initially powering up the control unit using the supplied harness. Turning on the ECU with incorrect configurations can lead to damage to both the engine and ECU components.
The wiring harness is not designed to provide grounding for your engine. Ensure your engine is adequately grounded using a grounding or earthing strap to connect your engine to the battery.
Avoid creating sparks or using electrical devices near flammable substances.
Always disconnect the battery cables when working on the electrical systems of your vehicle.
Make sure all fuel system components and wiring are installed away from heat sources, properly shielded if necessary, and in well-ventilated areas.
After installation, double-check for any fuel leaks and ensure that no wiring is left exposed or uninsulated to avoid the risk of a fire from a spark or short circuit.
Do not charge or disconnect the battery while the engine is running. Doing so could expose the control unit to an unregulated power supply, which might lead to control unit failure.
Essential tools for installation
A laptop (to install NSP software to configure the ECU)
Wire stripper and crimping tools
Battery cable crimp tool (4AWG)
Cable ties
Digital multi-meter
Wrench set
Drill and hole saw (51mm / 2") - to run the harness inside the cabin (depending on ECU installation location)
Laying out the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU and the main terminated engine harness in a vehicle involves several key steps to ensure proper installation and functionality. Here’s a general guideline:
1. Initial Planning: Determine the mounting location for the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU. It should be in a secure place and away from extreme heat or moving parts. Common locations include under the dashboard, in the glove box, in the kick panel, or even in the engine bay. Consider the routing of the harness and battery cables in your decision to ensure it reaches all necessary connection points without being too tight or having too much slack when connected to the ECU.
2. Routing the Harness: Route the harness from the ECU to the engine bay, ensuring it's away from high-heat areas like the exhaust and moving parts. Use the grommet when passing the harness through the firewall to protect the wires from abrasion. Avoid sharp bends in the cables and secure the harness with cable ties or clamps to keep it in place.
3. Connecting the Harness: Once the ECU location and harness routing has been finalized, begin to connect the harness to the various sensors, injectors, ignition system, and other components as described in the following sections below. This includes connections like the MAP sensor, air and coolant temperature sensors, throttle position sensor, wideband O2 sensor, fuel injectors, and ignition coils.
4. Securing and Protecting the Harness: After all connections are made, secure any loose sections of the harness away from heat sources or moving parts. Use protective sleeving for additional protection in areas exposed to high heat or potential abrasion.
5. Mounting the ECU: Securely mount the ECU using the appropriate brackets or mounting hardware. Ensure it's firmly attached to prevent movement, which could lead to wiring damage.
6. ECU Configuration: With the physical installation complete, the next step is to configure the ECU using Haltech’s NSP software. This involves downloading and installing the software into your laptop, connecting to the ECU, and going through the Rebel JZ setup wizard based on your specific JZ engine and vehicle setup.
7. Engine Start up: Once the above steps are complete, you are now ready to start the engine. A separate guide detailing the initial engine startup is provided in the final few sections below.
Battery connection
For correct operation, the battery positive and battery negative must be connected to the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU at all times.
The Nexus Rebel JZ ECU’s positive (red) terminal must be connected to the positive (+) terminal of the battery. It is recommended to use a 100A fuse (sample CF fuse shown below) in this connection. Use the supplied ring terminal and red boot, along with a red 4 AWG battery cable (sold separately), to complete the connection.
The Nexus Rebel JZ ECU’s negative (black) terminal must be connected to the negative (–) terminal of the battery using the supplied ring terminal and black boot, along with a black 4 AWG battery cable (sold separately), to complete the connection.
ECU connectors (Plugs A, C, and E)
Ignition switch input
The ignition switch input (pink) wire must be connected to a switched +12V source to turn the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU on. When connecting this wire to the ignition key switch, it is important to make sure to use the main ignition wire (i.e., not accessory) so it doesn’t lose power when the key is in the “Start” position, causing the ECU to momentarily turn off. The pink ignition switch input wire comes out of the connector for spare cabin inputs and outputs, where the APP adaptor is also integrated.
Starter Motor Control
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness features a high-current output wire that can supply +12V (25A) to the starter solenoid when needed to engage the starter motor. This wire is terminated with a connector that plugs directly into the starter solenoid. The output is controlled by the ECU via the AX25+ pin, which is assigned to the starter control function in the ECU settings. Controlling the starter also requires a starter switch signal to be connected to the ECU. A white wire is fitted to the cabin connector and is pinned to AVI 1 for this purpose. This wire must be connected to the starter switch signal from the ignition key switch. Alternatively, the starter switch signal can be assigned to a CAN keypad button if your setup includes one. In that case, AVI 1 can be repurposed for a different function.
Alternator
This harness is equipped with a DTM-2 plug to provide switched +12V power to alternators with built-in regulators. Additionally, the harness kit includes three alternator adapter harnesses to suit the most common JZ engine alternators, with the following connectors:
HT-186120 - Denso alternator adapter
HT-186121 - Bosch alternator adapter
HT-186122 - Tundra alternator adapter
Note: Using the adapter harnesses above excites the alternator using a 470-ohm inline resistor, serving as a replacement for the charge indicator light.
Crank Position Sensor
The crank connector plugs directly into the crank position sensor, typically located behind the crankshaft pulley at the front of the engine. The sensor is positioned near the timing belt drive gear, close to the alternator, and usually has an extended lead that places the sensor connector further away.
Cam Position Sensors
Cam Sensors for Non-VVTi engines:
The early model non-VVTi engines have two cam position sensors located on the left side of the cylinder head near the intake manifold. The cam sensor connector labeled CAM FRONT should be plugged into the sensor positioned midway along the engine, while the CAM REAR connector should be plugged into the sensor toward the rear. It is recommended to use both sensors, as this allows the Rebel JZ ECU to synchronize with the engine’s position more quickly during startup. However, the ECU will still function if only one sensor is available (e.g. if one has been removed), though synchronization may take longer at startup. Here at Goleby's Part we sell the Cam Sensor Deletes for a nicer look.
Cam Sensors for VVTi engines:
Later model VVTi engines use a different trigger system that can quickly synchronize with the engine’s position using only one cam position sensor. The cam sensor is located toward the rear of the engine, so the CAM REAR connector must be used. The CAM FRONT connector is not used in this application and should be tucked away.
Wideband Lambda Sensor
This harness is equipped with a connector that plugs directly into a Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband lambda sensor (HT-010718). Using a wideband lambda sensor allows the ECU to leverage functions such as closed-loop fuel control, where the ECU actively targets the desired fuel mixtures for any RPM and engine load combination. With a wideband lambda sensor, the ECU can also implement engine protection strategies when it detects that the fuel mixtures are running too lean.
Sensor installation notes:
Professional Installation: Installing the sensor in the exhaust requires a professional to weld the included sensor bung onto the exhaust pipe. Remember to disconnect the battery before performing any welding on the car.
Wiring Safety: Ensure that the sensor wiring does not come into contact with any exhaust piping to avoid damaging the wiring.
Sensor Placement: The sensor should be installed in the exhaust pipe where it can read the average exhaust output from the engine, typically after the exhaust pipe collector.
Consideration for Catalytic Converters or Air Injection: If your exhaust system includes catalytic converters or air injection, install the sensor so it reads the exhaust stream before these components. Placement after these devices can lead to false readings and disrupt the closed-loop fuel control (O2 control).
Avoid condensation and sensor damage: Install the sensor on the upper half of the exhaust pipe at an angle to prevent exhaust condensation from contaminating the sensor.
Knock Sensors
The Rebel JZ terminated harness features two knock sensor connectors that plug into the two Bosch knock sensors included in the kit. Bosch knock sensors detect a wider range of frequencies, making them more suitable for performance applications. Utilizing knock sensors allows the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU to detect knock and implement knock control strategies.
Knock sensor adapter studs are also provided to allow the Bosch knock sensors to be fitted in the factory knock sensor locations which will be torqued to the following:
Recommended stud tightening torque of 10 ft/lb (13.5nm)
Recommended nut tightening torque of 20 ft/lb (27nm)
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness uses an injector breakout connector to plug into multiple types of injector sub-harnesses (sold separately). The choice of sub-harness will depend on the type of injector connectors that are used. Each injector plug is labeled accordingly to easily identify which injector on the engine it connects to.
NOTE: The Nexus Rebel JZ ECU only supports high impedance injectors.
Ignition Coil Breakout
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness features an ignition coil breakout connector that plugs into the HT-186063 R35 COP ignition sub-harness (sold separately). This setup eliminates the need for the factory external igniter module, simplifying the wiring harness and upgrading the ignition system to use high-output ignition coils.
NOTE: Factory ignition systems, such as distributors and ignition coils that use external igniter modules, are not supported by the Rebel JZ application.
Ignition Coil Ground
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness also includes integrated grounding for the ignition coils, using a 10 mm ring terminal that must be bolted to the engine head.
NOTE: Make sure your engine is adequately grounded using a grounding cable or earthing strap that connects the engine to the battery. This ground ring terminal does not provide grounding for your engine.
Flex Fuel Sensor
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness also features an optional connector that plugs into a Haltech Flex Fuel Sensor. Using a Flex Fuel Sensor enables the ECU to make real-time adjustments to optimize the tune for varying ethanol blends.
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
Air Flow Meters (AFMs) or MAF sensors are not used by the Rebel JZ ECU; instead, engine load is measured using a MAP sensor. The Rebel JZ ECU features an onboard 4-bar MAP sensor capable of measuring up to 43 psi of boost pressure. This can be utilized by connecting a vacuum hose from the MAP sensor barb to a vacuum port on the intake manifold, or by using a T-piece in line with the fuel pressure regulator’s vacuum hose. If the engine will be running more than 43 psi of boost, an external MAP sensor can be used and wired to the spare connector located at the engine bay end of the harness.
Oil and Fuel Pressure Sensors
This harness plugs directly into Haltech oil and fuel pressure sensors using the Delphi 3-pin pressure sensor connector shown below. While oil and fuel pressure sensors are not required for the engine to run, they are highly recommended to enable the ECU to make fueling adjustments and provide engine protection.
HT-010904 - 150 PSI “TI” Pressure Sensor
HT-010906 - 250 PSI “TI” Pressure Sensor
HT-010910 - 150 PSI Motorsport Pressure Sensor
HT-010912 - 250 PSI Motorsport Pressure Sensor
The use of a fuel pressure sensor is highly recommended so the ECU can actively adjust the fueling based on fuel pressure changes or perform engine protection strategies if the fuel pressure deviates from the expected range.
Thermofan Control
This harness provides direct thermofan control using the Red/Orange 10AWG cable. Use this cable to supply +12V power directly to the thermofan and leverage ECU functions, such as setting the fan’s on/off temperature threshold, activating the fan with air-conditioning, or deactivating the fan when the vehicle reaches a specified speed (vehicle speed sensor is required).
Fuel Pump Control
The harness also provides direct fuel pump control using the Red/Yellow 10AWG terminated cable. Use this cable to supply +12V power directly to the fuel pump, allowing the ECU to prime the pump when the system is turned on and to implement safety functions, such as automatically turning the pump off when the ECU no longer detects an RPM signal.
Coolant and Intake Air Temperature
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness is equipped with connectors that plug directly into the factory 2-pin coolant temperature sensor and a Haltech air temperature sensor (HT-010206), which replaces the air temperature sensor integrated into the factory air flow meter assembly. These are vital sensors that the ECU uses as part of the Volumetric Efficiency (VE) fuel model and are often used for engine protection as well.
The air temperature sensor should be installed at a location that best represents the actual intake air temperature entering the engine, which is typically on the intake pipe just before the throttle body.
Coolant Temperature Gauge Signal
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness is fitted with a connector that plugs into the factory coolant temperature gauge sensor. This single pin sensor is not used by the ECU, but the wire runs from the sensor to pin 18 of the spare cabin inputs connector, allowing connection to an analog coolant temperature gauge.
Throttle Breakout Connector
The Rebel JZ main harness throttle breakout connector provides the option to use either the factory cable throttle system or upgrade to a Bosch DBW electronic throttle system by using the following sub-harnesses:
HT-186160 - Cable throttle sub-harness
HT-186162 - DBW throttle sub-harness
NOTE: The Toyota Electronic Throttle Control System - Intelligent (ETCS-i) is not supported by the Rebel JZ application.
Cable Throttle Sub-harness
The cable throttle sub-harness plugs directly into the factory 4-pin Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and the 6-pin Idle Speed Control Valve, as shown in the diagram below.
DBW Throttle Sub-harness
If you’re upgrading from the conventional cable throttle system to Drive-By-Wire (DBW), the DBW throttle sub-harness can be used instead and will plug directly into a Bosch electronic throttle.
To complete the DBW throttle system, a DBW pedal—or Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly—must be used to replace the mechanical pedal from the cable throttle system. The supplied cabin input connector includes an integrated universal DTM-6 connector for this purpose, allowing you to wire in the pedal of your choice. The cabin connector also includes a dedicated pin (Pin 21) designed for connection to a brake pedal switch or brake light signal, as part of the DBW control strategy. This brake input signal is expected to read +12V whenever the brake pedal is pressed.
Boost Control
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness features a dedicated DTM-2 connector for wiring a Haltech boost control solenoid. A 3-port boost solenoid, such as the HT-020400, is suitable for performance applications and provides much more stable control over the desired boost pressure.
NOTE: Twin-turbo systems are not supported by the Rebel JZ application.
VVTi Solenoid Connector
For engines with VVTi, the Rebel JZ harness is fitted with a connector that plugs into the VVTi solenoid, located at the front left-hand side of the engine. This solenoid is tuned using the Cam Control function in the NSP software to maximize engine performance.
Transmission Breakout Connector
The transmission breakout connector on the Rebel JZ main terminated harness allows it to interface with a range of transmission harnesses supported by the Rebel JZ application. The matching connector is also included in the kit for wiring your own transmission harness into this connection.
Spare Inputs and Outputs
The Rebel JZ main terminated harness features two connectors with spare inputs and outputs that can be used to wire in additional sensors, switches, or to control relays, solenoids, warning lights, or other devices you want the ECU to control. The connector located at the cabin end of the harness is labelled “Cabin” and uses a 26-pin Super seal connector. The other connector labelled “Spare,” is located at the engine bay end of the harness and uses a 12-pin DTM connector. Both opposing connectors are supplied in the kit, with pinout information provided below for reference.
Spare Inputs and Outputs connector
This harness offers in-cabin breakout connectors populated with spare inputs and outputs available on the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU. These spare inputs and outputs can be wired to additional sensors, switches, or used to control relays, solenoids, or warning lights.
Digital Pulsed Outputs (DPO)
Number of user definable channels: 5
Digital Pulsed Outputs (DPOs) are capable of generating pulsed waveforms with varying duty cycles, varying frequencies, or switched states (On or Off). When activated by the ECU, a DPO output switches to ground. DPOs can be used to control various low-current devices (up to 3A max), such as boost control solenoids, shift lights, or tachometers. Additionally, DPOs can be used to switch relays to drive other high-current devices.
Analog Voltage Inputs (AVI)
Number of user definable channels: 3
Analog Voltage Inputs (AVIs) are inputs that accept variable voltage signals ranging from 0-5V, typical of pressure, temperature, and position sensors. These inputs can also accommodate switches that alternate between two distinct voltage levels. AVIs feature a software-selectable 1K-ohm pull-up resistor to 5V, which is typically enabled for temperature-related sensors and switched to ground inputs. They are usually disabled for sensors with an external +5V supply, such as trim switches or linear position sensors.
Synchronized Pulsed Inputs (SPI)
Number of user definable channels: 2
Synchronized Pulsed Inputs are capable of measuring the duty cycle or frequency of a signal, in addition to analog voltages like AVIs. These inputs are suitable for various sensors, including flex fuel composition sensors or wheel speed sensors with a software-selectable 1K-ohm pull-up resistor to 5V, if the sensor requires. SPIs are compatible with both digital (hall effect or optical) and analog (reluctor) sensors. They have a maximum input voltage rating of 25V and can measure frequencies up to a maximum of 22.5kHz.
Haltech CAN
This harness is equipped with DTM-4 connectors—one at the cabin end and the other at the engine bay end of the harness. These CAN connectors are designed to connect to Haltech CAN devices (e.g., display dash, keypad, PDM), which further expand the functionality of the application. If you are using multiple Haltech CAN devices, a Haltech CAN Hub can be used to increase the number of available connection ports.
Nexus Rebel JZ ECU Overview
Nexus Rebel JZ ECU LED Behavior
Nexus Rebel JZ ECU Specifications
Rebel JZ ECU dimensions
Nexus Rebel JZ ECU Pinout
Nexus Software Programmer (NSP)
Installing NSP
Haltech NSP (Nexus Software Programmer) is the software used for tuning and programming the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU. Follow these steps to install the Haltech 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 - Once the download is complete, locate the downloaded file (usually in the ‘Downloads’ folder of your computer) and double-click on the file to run the Nexus Software Setup Wizard.
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 Rebel JZ ECU.
The USB connection will let the NSP software automatically recognize the ECU and activate the unit in low power mode. This allows you to either upload a basemap or create a new one through the setup wizard before installing the ECU into the vehicle. In low power mode, the ECU’s inputs and outputs are disabled, ensuring you to safely configure your vehicle setup prior to installing the unit and powering it up.
Rebel JZ ECU Setup Wizard
NSP software features a comprehensive setup wizard, designed to tailor the Rebel JZ ECU settings for specific Toyota JZ engine applications. The process begins with naming your vehicle, which creates a dedicated folder on your laptop for saving maps and data log files, and offers the option to add a vehicle description - a useful feature for quickly identifying different map versions.
Next, you select a base engine from a list of Toyota JZ engines, a step that determines engine capacity and compression ratio settings in the map, along with other engine-specific information.
In the next step, you define the camshaft profile being used, which influences map parameters like fueling, spark, idle control, and O2 control.
The air intake system setup follows, allowing you to choose between naturally aspirated or forced induction systems and between cable-operated or Drive-By-Wire throttles, with NSP software adjusting inputs and outputs accordingly.
The next step involves selecting the appropriate MAP sensor, with an onboard 4-bar sensor for naturally aspirated and boosted engines up to 43 psi, or the option for an external sensor.
In the last few steps, you define the fuel and ignition system setup by selecting the specific fuel injectors, choose your fuel regulator setup and define the base fuel pressure. The wizard will also let you configure the ignition setup by selecting your ignition coils from a list.
After completing these steps, NSP provides a summary of your selections for confirmation, allowing any necessary adjustments before finalizing.
This thorough setup ensures that the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU, coupled with a Rebel JZ terminated harness, is optimally configured to start and run the engine with a base tune.
Haltech Connect
The Haltech Connect App enables you to connect wirelessly to and interact with your Nexus Rebel JZ ECU via your smartphone or tablet. View real-time data from the ECU, setup basic gauges, clear DTC’s, assign wiring, and adjust select parameters. Available for free on Google Play (Android) and the Apple Apps Store (IOS).
Setting up Wi-Fi communications
Wi-Fi communication is another method for connecting the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU to your laptop, serving as an alternative to a USB connection once the Wi-Fi module is enabled.
To set up your Wi-Fi connection follow these steps:
1. Open NSP and connect your Nexus Rebel JZ ECU using the provided USB-C cable.
2. Click on ‘Connections’ in the navigation tree and enable the Wi-Fi module.
3. Under ‘Connections’, select ‘Wi-Fi’ 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.
4. Click ‘Apply’.
5. Power up the ECU using main power (ignition switch on), then go to your computer’s Network settings. Connect to your Nexus Rebel JZ ECU by selecting your chosen SSID and entering your password.
NOTE: The ECU must be powered by main power for Wi-Fi communication. Up to two computers can connect to the ECU via Wi-Fi, and one via USB-C, at any given time. When the module is disabled, it is completely inactive and held in an OFF state.
Engine start up guide
Starting your Toyota JZ engine with a Nexus Rebel JZ ECU and terminated harness involves several steps. Please note that this is a general overview, and the exact procedure may vary based on your specific application. Here are the basic steps:
1. Preparation - Ensure that the Rebel JZ ECU is properly installed and securely mounted in your vehicle. Confirm all necessary wiring connections are made as per the Nexus Rebel JZ terminated harness documentation and your engine’s specific requirements.
2. Power and Ground - Use a sufficiently charged car battery, connected to the Rebel JZ ECU as outlined in this quick start guide. The Rebel JZ terminated harness does not provide grounding for your engine. Ensure your engine is properly grounded with a grounding strap connecting it to the battery.
3. Sensors and Inputs - Check that all required sensors (e.g., crank and cam sensors, MAP sensor, coolant and air temperature sensors, throttle position sensor, etc.) are correctly connected to the harness and that sensor values read accurately in the NSP software.
4. Outputs - Make correct connections for required outputs to engine components such as injectors, ignition coils, thermofan, and fuel pump.
5. Configure the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU settings - Use the setup wizard in the NSP software to configure ECU settings, specifying engine type, injector size, ignition settings, and other parameters specific to your setup.
6. Safety Checks - Double-check all connections for issues like wiring shorts or loose connections that could pose a hazard. Verify that fuel pressure is within the expected range and there are no fuel leaks. Power cycle the ECU to prime the fuel pump and pressurize the fuel system.
7. Pre-Start up - Briefly crank the engine to ensure it turns over smoothly and without any unusual sounds or issues. Once confident in the setup, start the engine using the ignition key or start button.
8. Monitor and Adjust - After the engine starts and idles, monitor data such as coolant temperature and wideband O2, and listen for any abnormal sounds. While the Nexus Rebel JZ ECU will run the engine using a pre-configured base map, further tuning is needed for optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions. Conduct thorough testing under various conditions.
Remember that engine tuning and setup can be complex and require expertise. If you are not experienced with EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) systems and engine management, seeking assistance from a professional tuner is recommended for safe and reliable engine operation.
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