Powertrain Control Module Reprogram - Service Tip (97-9-8)

Publication date: 1997-04-28
Reference number: 97-9-8
Supersedes refnos: 96-25-11

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE REPROGRAM - SERVICE TIP

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 97-9-8, Date of Issue: April 28, 1997
Superceded Bulletin(s): 96-25-11, Date of Issue: December 2, 1996

NOTE: This bulletin supersedes Technical Service Bulletin 96-25-11 dated December 2, 1996.

DESCRIPTION

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE - REPROGRAM POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) - SERVICE PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP

APPLICATION

Model(s): 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

ISSUE

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

At the Main menu, select Powertrain and enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Select "Continue."
From the Powertrain menu, select Electronic Engine category.
Scroll through the "Tool List" to PCM Reprogramming and select "Continue."
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.
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.
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.
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. SBDS will also automatically print a copy of the vehicle log for filing with the Repair Order.
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

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

WARRANTY INFORMATION

WARRANTY STATUS: Information Only.

OASIS CODES: 206000, 690000, 698298