PCM - Reprogramming Tips

Article No.
97-9-8

04/28/97

[1][2]POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE - REPROGRAM
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) - SERVICE
PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP

FORD:
1994-97 CROWN VICTORIA, MUSTANG, THUNDERBIRD
1996-97 CONTOUR, ESCORT, PROBE, TAURUS

LINCOLN-MERCURY:
1994-97 COUGAR, GRAND MARQUIS
1995-97 CONTINENTAL, TOWN CAR
1996-97 MARK VIII, MYSTIQUE, SABLE, TRACER

LIGHT TRUCK:
1994-97 ECONOLINE, F-150-350 SERIES
1995-97 RANGER
1995-98 WINDSTAR
1996 BRONCO
1996-97 AEROSTAR, EXPLORER
1997 EXPEDITION, MOUNTAINEER

This TSB article is being republished in its entirety to include Windstar.

ISSUE:
[1][2]Powertrain Control Modules (PCMs) no longer need to be replaced when servicing driveability concerns. The only time a PCM needs replacing is when it can no longer be reprogrammed and/or is damaged. In all other cases, the PCM must be reprogrammed and NOT REPLACED.

ACTION:
Use the following Service Procedure to properly reprogram a PCM.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

PCM REPROGRAMMING USING SBDS

1. At the Main menu, select Powertrain and enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Select "Continue."

2. From the Powertrain menu, select Electronic Engine category.

3. Scroll through the "Tool List" to PCM Reprogramming and select "Continue."

4. Any TSBs or Recalls for the entered vehicle will be displayed. There is up to a 6 week delay for TSB/Recall information updates on SBDS. New TSBs/Recalls may not appear or only the TSB number will be displayed even though the new calibration is on the current calibration CD-ROM. Also, if the vehicle calibration is being updated because of a Special Service Message, Broadcast Message or the PCM was replaced and requires calibration, no screen may appear. This is not a concern and will not prevent programming updates or being paid for programming updates.

5. Follow all hook-up instructions and continue as prompted to the calibration screen. Typically, a list of calibration numbers will appear. Answer as appropriate for the vehicle and select "Continue." SBDS will then validate the information entered against the information read in the PCM, and any mismatch of software or hardware will be displayed for technician action.

6. Insert the proper calibration or the latest level CD-ROM when prompted and follow the instructions as displayed by SBDS. Do not crank the engine. SBDS will update the engine calibration to the latest level calibration for the selected calibration.

7. After programming is complete, SBDS will display a representation of the Authorized Modification Decal with the Engineering Part Number for the PCM installed. It is important that the label be completed and attached to the vehicle. S8DS will also automatically print a copy of the vehicle log for filing with the Repair Order.

8. Selecting "Continue" will call for a KOEO self test. Any hard faults present after performing self test were not caused by reprogramming. The calibration has now been validated and the PCM is operating properly. Unless directed by other Service Procedures, the vehicle can be released to the customer.

PCM REPROGRAMMING WITH SBTS/NGS

1. Select "NGS," then follow procedure "Touring PLM Recalibration."

2. Be sure to use cable with oversized DCL connector. The oversized connector incorporates an 18-volt transformer supplying the required voltage to reprogram the PCM.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
SUPERSEDES: 96-25-11
WARRANTY STATUS: INFORMATION ONLY
OASIS CODES: 206000, 690000, 698298