[xxxBlakexxx]

I looked into this whole chip notion pretty closely. A lot of guys on this user's group are pretty hard on them. I do agree, however, that a chip has more advantages with an automatic than a manual. Either way, you pay the same.

Basically, a chip can do the following for you:

1 - Change shift points and firmness on an auto

2 - Raise (or lower) speed limiter to allow better use of power band.

3 - Remove speed governor

4 - Increase timing to allow for higher octane fuel.

5 - Speed calibration if making gear changes (which I don't think you need for a '97).

Your HP gains come as a result of the timing changes. I can say this...you will notice an improvement.

Chips serve further benefits when making more advanced mods such a nitrous, blowers, cams, etc.. but you will need a custom program. A chip is a MUST HAVE for some mods.

Think of it this way, though. Is is worth it to spend $200+ to have a gain of a fraction of a second in the quarter mile and be stuck using high octane gas? That's the big question.

On the basis of having an automtic, I would say that a chip is at least "break even" and if you believe in the power gains, then it is a no brainer.