Mike

I while back I wrote

Hi Mike

My sticker in the door jam says "JAS3". Yesterday I picked it up from the dealer for some warrenty work and they told me they upgraded the software in the PCM.

Does this effect the "JAS3" software in the ECU?? Would I have to find out what software they upgraded with prior to ordering a Super Chip or is it non-related???

Also I have never seen anyone else talk about or sell JAS3 used type superchips. Is there such an animal?

I just looked under the hood and there is a new sticker there that says something about an update and the following "XLIF-12A650" and then FE underneath. What kind of change did they do or what will be different. They couldn't tell me.

Thank you ahead of time for responding--Bob

------------------
99 EB Expedition 5.4L with all the perks,3.73 LS,Heated Mirrors and Seats. Everything but sun-roof. Rhino Step Bar, Ford Bug Shield,More to come...


[This message has been edited by ExpyBob (edited 04-11-2000).]


THEN YOU WROTE
IP: Logged

Superchips_Distributor
Member
Posts: 2554
From: Millboro, VA USA
posted 04-11-2000 11:19 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HI Bob,
Excellent question, and *very* important!

What has happened is that your dealer has apparently reflashed your Expy's computer to a later software revision. Luckily, it sounds as if they did the job correctly for the most part. What I mean is, by law they are required to place a "Notice of Modification" sticker under the hood in a prominent location, and identify the complete (not just a partial, as they often do) new calibration code. Yours is not exactly complete, but very close, and maybe close enough. As long as we have both the original computer code, and the new calibration code, we can usually cross-reference to see what the new computer code is. In your case, it's probably JAS4 now, but it could well be a completely different code too.

The JAS3 code wasn't used for very long before JAS4 replaced it, and that is why you don't see any used JAS3-code Superchips laying around.

As far as why they upgraded your software, that is usually done to correct a particular aspect that your previous program had, or to correct a problem, in other words. Perhaps this was in answer to a specific complaint of yours, I don't know, it could well be.

Best thing to do is just give us a call and I can go over this with you, and see if we can determine your new computer code, etc. If so, then you'll know should you decide to take an interest in the Superchip.

There is always a way to determine a computer's software load; if all else fails, and the information simply is not obtainable any other way, we can always do a "read" on a vehicle's computer.

To answer the question in your thread title more specifically, only the 1996 & newer EEC-V OBD-II Ford computers can be reprogrammed, or reflashed, by the dealership service departments. Prior to the 1996 model year, Ford used their EEC-IV computer series, which look basically identical, but do not have the capability to be reflashed. They can be Superchipped, as they have always had the external override data path, but they cannot be reflashed, only the '96 & later models can be reflashed at the dealer. So yes, your computer can indeed by reprogrammed, or reflashed, as we call it, as it uses an EEPROM.
------------------
Mike Troyer
Performance Products, Inc.
National Distributor of Superchips
(540) 862-9515
Email: mtroyer@compuserve.com
Online Superchip ordering system:https://www.f150online.com/scpp/index.html

[This message has been edited by Superchips_Distributor (edited 04-12-2000).]


NOW HERE'S MY QUESTION....

What happens if I get the chip (Thinking of flip chip) and I bring it in for service and they reflash it again???

Will they force me to have something done to revise the program in the chip to match the configuration of the new PCM code? Is that costly????

Thanks Bob



------------------

The vehicle above is one of many. Try refreshing. It goes by random but the Expy is exactly like mine.
99 EB Expedition 5.4L, Dark Toreador Red with all the perks,3.73 LS,Heated Mirrors and Seats. Everything but sun-roof. Rhino Step Bar, Ford Bug Shield,Even the hitch propeller, More to come...


[This message has been edited by ExpyBob (edited 05-04-2000).]

[This message has been edited by ExpyBob (edited 05-04-2000).]

 

That certainly is a good question. Is this something they will do automatically without prior notification to the owner? I would hate for them to reflash my computer..and cause my Superchip to not work properly. I know I could send the chip to Superchips to also be reflashed..but that would not be for free.

Also...Mike, is there anyway to find out if a particular computer code/software has been upgraded by FORD?? If mine has (ATC2)...I will make sure to NOT have it upgraded unless absolutely necessary.

Thanks!

------------------
2000 F-150 XLT, 4x2, 5.4L Supercab, Superchip, Styleside, Black with silver two-tone, 3.55 rear, class III towing package with heavy duty cooling package, 4 wheel disk ABS, overhead console, sliding rear window, keyless entry, dark graphite interior, in dash CD, factory leather wrapped steering wheel, Pendaliner bedliner, K&N air filter, rubberized undercoating, cabin filtration system, Bugflector II, 5W-30 Mobil 1, engine build 10/4/99




[This message has been edited by Dustoff (edited 05-04-2000).]

 

Dustoff

I didn't even have a clue they were going to do that. I was complaining of a thunk sound when I stopped or started sometimes. When I went to pick it up they said "Oh, by the way, we reflashed your computer with better software. It should drive better now."

They do put a sticker under the hood by the radiator that says they did it and it has 10 numbers/letters that describe what revision. But it doesn't say JAS4 or whatever, you need to have a way to cross reference it.

If you read what I wrote above you'll see that it would have made a difference to the superchip. That's what worries me.---Bob

[This message has been edited by ExpyBob (edited 05-05-2000).]

 

This did happen to me and if you do a search here, you'll find it. What happened with my 97 f150 was that when I had about 2000 miles on the engine, the engine light came on. I took it right in to Ford because the light wouldn't clear itself. So I take the truck in, they work on it. Tell me the problem was no problem at all and never mentioned to me that they had reprogramed my computer. I didn't have a clue until I found that sticker under the hood. So when I ordered my superchip, I had to get all the letter's and #'s from that sticker for Mike to get me the right chip. Mike was able to "decode" it but he did tell me that mine was the first of that code he'd had before. Therefore my chip took a little longer than normal to get made and get to me. But well worth the wait because it worked GREAT!!! When I sold that truck, I left the chip in because I didn't think I'd have much luck selling one that was such a rare code. New guy that bought my truck sure liked it!! About reflashing your chip, I think (not positive) that Mike will reflash any of ours bought on this site for free or at least for a very low price. So if we buy a chip (like I have for my new f250) and Ford flashes the computer on that truck, Mike will flash the chip so we can continue to use it.

------------------
2k F250 CC SWB 4x2 6 speed Diesel XLT Super Duty, Woodland Green
Power Mirrors, 3.73 LS, Captains Chairs, ARE tonneau top, rear privacy glass
TT Pkg, Class IV hitch, sliding rear window, running boards, mud flaps
265/75/16 AS OWL tires, am/fm/cassette/cd, rechargable MagLite
Clarion APA 5240 amp, Memphis speakers:Components front, 5x7 rear, 10"sub
SuperChip, Stepshields, Ventshields on windows, rubber bed mat
rugged liner bedliner on tailgate, quick disconnect jumper cables
unaFORDable (decal on tailgate)

 

Hi Gang,

An excellent series of questions!

First, the Ford dealership service departments will not tell you in advance that the are going to reflash the computer as a general rule, and that's normal, and not a big problem. They will reflash the computer somtimes for various complaints, ranging from a rough idle in some cases to other driveability-related issues. If a customer's complaint matches a reason to reflash to a certain new calibration code, then they will do that automatically, without consulting the customer first. It's simply like replacing a failed part as far as they are concerned, is perhaps one analogy. And by the way, it's not just Ford that will do this, but basically all automakers, it's completely normal to have this done if needed to correct a particular complaint.

Now, what happens in the vast majority of cases when a new code (software revision)is loaded into the computer (this can only be done on 1996 & newer OBD-II EEC-V computers, earlier computers must be replaced) is that the vehicle will usually not even start with the Superchip re-installed. Once in a great while we'll see a code that is very, very close, using the same basic "overlay", and so the vehicle may start and even run fairly decent, but it still won't be what it could be, like in the case of the MER3 & MER4 codes. Those 2 codes are so close that the vehicle will run on either one, but not have all the full power benefits from it. However, it is very rare for the vehicle to even start with a changed code once you re-install the Superchip. Different functions are located in different memory addresses from code to code, which is why "generic" chips work so poorly.

Now, what do we *do* about this?

First, we will not allow you to lose your investment in your Superchip just because Ford had to fix a problem by reflashing your computer.

As is quoted from my first response in ExpyBob's orignal post, we will need to know both the original computer code, as well as the new calibration code. Anytime a dealer reflashes the computer, they are required by emissions law to place a "Notice of Modification" sticker under the hood, in a prominent location so that any future technician will instantly see it and know that the computer's code has been changed. They are also required to properly identify the new calibration code, which is usually 10-11 digits. As long as the dealer has done this (and sometimes they forget to!), then we can take the original computer code, and the new calibration code, and cross-reference them to determine the new computer code, like we did for Tina. Once we determine that, it's a free upgrade to reflash your Superchip with the new computer code, so you can enjoy your Superchip once again, at no charge if it came from us originally, unless you want it returned quicker than UPS Ground, in which case, you simply pay a few bucks for the faster freight.

Now, let's say the dealer does *not* record the new calibration code, and they can't tell you when you call them for that information, or in other words, the worst-case scenario.... don't worry, you're still OK, as you can overnight your computer in and we'll have it "read" to determine it's new code, and then reflash your Superchip for you and overnight it back out to you. The only cost to you to do this is your shipping charges, there is no charge for the update service itself.

So, no matter whether your dealer records the new information or not, there is always a way for us to determine your new computer code, thus protecting your investment in your Superchip.

Just to clear up some very natural confusion with regards to the two different terms "computer code" and "calibration code".... the "calibration code" is how the dealer references the software revision in your vehicle's computer. The "computer code" is how *we* reference that information, and we do that because more than one "calibration code" can cross-reference to a particular "computer code", so the "computer code" is a more exact manner in which to reference the actual software revision that your computer contains.

So don't worry, if your computer is reflashed, we can make your Superchip work again, thus protecting your investment.

------------------
Mike Troyer
Performance Products, Inc.
National Distributor of Superchips
(540) 862-9515
Email: mtroyer@compuserve.com
Online Superchip ordering system:https://www.f150online.com/scpp/index.html

[This message has been edited by Superchips_Distributor (edited 05-05-2000).]

 

Thanks everyone!

Mike..That is all I needed to read..thanks a bunch!

I would sure hate it if I could not "superfoot" my truck once in a while.

 

I read on one of the wholesale sites, that the maker of superchips has closed its doors. Is this true?? Are the chips still available. I tried to e-mail chip distributer but got the e-mail back undeliverable. I also want to know how this chip will work with my Jacobs DIS ignition upgrade. I also have a K&N intake. Thanks, always looking for more safe performance for my 1997 F-150 4.6L 2wd.

 

WLF- Different company, different product.
ADS made a product called the Super Chip. They went out of bussiness, Performance Products Inc. makes the Superchip is still in business.

[This message has been edited by ps398 (edited 05-07-2000).]

 

Hi mike,

It is good to hear that you will take care of the problem i have to take mine in for a re-occuring throttle that sticks wide open , not sure if they will re-flash the computer you can never tell with the dealers, but if it doe happen i am glad to hear that you will stand behinde the product to correct any problems. Atta boy mike.

I know it been a whiel but i have been very busy, p.s. have to rebuild the 460 for the cougar dropped another valve at 6800 , on the the bottle car still ran a 11.26 on 7 cylinders. That is why i call it empty pockets racing.

------------------
*2000 blk xlt f150
*5.4 4x4 3.55 ls
*sc orp pkg
*tow pkg, 17 inch wheels
*herculiner,remote start
*flowmaster, air box mod
*bfg ko's A.R.E. cap
*sony 10 disc cd player
*k&n air filter
*superchip
* havoline synthetic oil
****mods to come*********
harley davison hitch reciver plug.
removing stock cab steps& installing westins.

 

Thanks PS398. Kind of a close call with superchips and super chips. Just a space apart. I guess with one out of business there won't be anymore confusion.
Still wondering is there will be any conflict between the superchip and the Jacobs ignition...

------------------


[This message has been edited by WLF (edited 05-07-2000).]

 

Dear Steve G,

Good to "see" you back again, it's been awhile!

Sorry to hear you dropped a valve in the 460, ouch-o-matic!!

You're having a problem in your brand new truck, with the throttle sticking at WOT?!? Another ouch!

On a lighter note, are you sure you haven't been infected with a bad case of the dreaded "Superfoot"? Just kidding with you here Steve.....

That's a new one, I don't think we've ever had another report here on a 2000 F-150 of a throttle sticking open like that, that could be very scary indeed. Let us know what that turns out to be, ok?

And if they do reflash your computer, make sure they place that sticker under the hood as I described above, and let us know so we can reflash your Superchip for you right away.

Good luck on both vehicles, to say the least!!

------------------
Mike Troyer
Performance Products, Inc.
National Distributor of Superchips
(540) 862-9515
Email: mtroyer@compuserve.com
Online Superchip ordering system:https://www.f150online.com/scpp/index.html

 

Dear WLF,

Welcome to F150online!

Just to clear things up a bit, Superchips Inc. is the original manufacturer of the Superchip, and we are their National Distributor.

The *other* comapny, named "ADS", is the company that closed it's doors, and your right, they did cause come confusion over the years, and they did it deliberately. Even with their doors closed, they're *still* causing confusion!

Feel free to give us a call for details on the Superchip, and sorry for any confusion you may have experienced.

------------------
Mike Troyer
Performance Products, Inc.
National Distributor of Superchips
(540) 862-9515
Email: mtroyer@compuserve.com
Online Superchip ordering system:https://www.f150online.com/scpp/index.html

 

Yea thanks for the clear-up. Already got some information from you on another message board. You will be hearing from me soon...

------------------
Black 1997 F-150 Supercab Flairside. 4.6L with Jocobs DIS, K&N Generation II, Cat back Exhaust (nice rumble). 17" Off Road wheel pkg. Lots of body mods. 4 yrs old and still turns heads...

 

Well the dealer said that this is becoming a very common problem??? What they said is that the throttle body being made of plastic the throttle plates are getting stuck in either the closed postion or wide open . No fix they ordered a new throttle body for me. Will have to see if that works. The first time it stuck open i was backing out of my drive way (it does not have to be wide open to stick) i ended up in my neibhors front lawn( good thing he was sleeping) But most it will do it if you punch it to the floor it is fun until you have to stop once i had to put it in to neutral and let the rev limiter catch it till i could pull off the road and get it un -stuck by hand. Very scary if you punch it in traffic to pass and have to stop suddnly,........ after i got it un-stuck i had to change my shorts.. ha ha

I think all of us have a case of SUPER FOOT. talk to you latter mike.

 

Dear Steve G,

Wow, that must have been scary!!! One good thing, once you got it up into neutral, there is a "no-load" rev limiter in the ECU, that is set considerably lower than the "normal" rev limiter, for anytime the engine is not under a load, so it won't turn enough rpms to do damage to the motor in those situations. It will come into play anytime there is no load, hence it's name. So if you're in neutral, park, have the clutch in on a manual, or even if you are spinning the tires so hard in 1st gear that the engine is not under an appreciable load, this no-load rev limiter will kick in to protect the engine. We do not ever modifiy the no-load rev limiters in the Superchip on any vehicle with the exception of drag cars. The no-load rev limiters are usually set to no more than 4500 rpm at the highest.

I have experienced a stuck throttle in the wide-open position before, and it took me by surprise, big-time. This was many years ago, in my 9-second Mopar. (OK, 9.7 second!)I had dual return springs on the throttle linkage, but one broke, and popped the other off when the first one broke, uh-oh! (Obviously it needed improvement, which it immediately got!) I was in a bank parking lot at the time, and with both feet on the brake, it was boiling the tires and still moving forward for the couple of seconds it took for my brain to finally realize what was happening, and hit the kill switch. Luckily I didn't end up in my neighbor's yard like you did, and nobody was hurt, nothing damaged, but it sure was an eye-opener!

I'm glad to hear nobody was hurt, that could have been a very dangerous situation very quickly.

------------------
Mike Troyer
Performance Products, Inc.
National Distributor of Superchips
(540) 862-9515
Email: mtroyer@compuserve.com
Online Superchip ordering system:https://www.f150online.com/scpp/index.html