Computer Codes and updates....
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Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2001
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From: North Idaho/Eastern WA
Computer Codes and updates....
Perhaps this question should be directed toward Mike. I'm finally ready to purchase a Superchip, but am a little nervous. I have a '97 F150. I noted the code "IMP4" on a sticker on the side of the computer, located very close behind the battery. The sticker in the front jam of the passenger door is damaged but appears to probably read the same. My questions are:
1) Is there another sticker inside the computer or perhaps hidden from view that I should double check before ordering?
2) I was researching a little bit, and found this quote on another website, "The code you show as IMP4 was the original code for your vehicle. The dealer did an update as per his Technical Service Bulletin. This was done when you brought your vehicle in to any dealer for any reason. When the dealer enters the VIN, the TSB will come up and tell him to re-calibrate. IMP5 is an update for IMP4. I am not sure exactly what the difference is between the two. Both codes are for 1997 F-150,s. The IMP4 was an early 97 code and the IMP5 was a late 97 code. The update could be something as simple as a 50 rpm change in the shift pattern. It could be one or several changes from IMP4 to IMP5. Your vehicle should run fine and unless you are having some type of problems, I would not mess with changing the ecu. Some of the Powerstrokes are up to their 8th update."(end quote) So, if my system has been updated, how would I know without removing the computer first? And finally, how will this affect how the chip is burnt?
1) Is there another sticker inside the computer or perhaps hidden from view that I should double check before ordering?
2) I was researching a little bit, and found this quote on another website, "The code you show as IMP4 was the original code for your vehicle. The dealer did an update as per his Technical Service Bulletin. This was done when you brought your vehicle in to any dealer for any reason. When the dealer enters the VIN, the TSB will come up and tell him to re-calibrate. IMP5 is an update for IMP4. I am not sure exactly what the difference is between the two. Both codes are for 1997 F-150,s. The IMP4 was an early 97 code and the IMP5 was a late 97 code. The update could be something as simple as a 50 rpm change in the shift pattern. It could be one or several changes from IMP4 to IMP5. Your vehicle should run fine and unless you are having some type of problems, I would not mess with changing the ecu. Some of the Powerstrokes are up to their 8th update."(end quote) So, if my system has been updated, how would I know without removing the computer first? And finally, how will this affect how the chip is burnt?
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Joined: Mar 1998
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From: Virginia
Hi BillyW,
Since you posted this, I believe we have already spoken about all of this in detail over the phone, so I won't repeat all of that here.
Briefly, as we discussed, those IMP4's weren't automatically updated prior to retail delivery as one might assume from that post, that is done only if the vehicle is brought in for service, and usually only under specific symptom complaint that would be addressed by the later IMP5. There are always running updates every model year, which is why we see hundreds of codes for each model year alone in these F-150's.
I enjoyed talking with you today (it's gotta be you, I'll feel really silly if it's not!) about all of this in detail, & hope you enjoy your new Superchip!
Since you posted this, I believe we have already spoken about all of this in detail over the phone, so I won't repeat all of that here.
Briefly, as we discussed, those IMP4's weren't automatically updated prior to retail delivery as one might assume from that post, that is done only if the vehicle is brought in for service, and usually only under specific symptom complaint that would be addressed by the later IMP5. There are always running updates every model year, which is why we see hundreds of codes for each model year alone in these F-150's.
I enjoyed talking with you today (it's gotta be you, I'll feel really silly if it's not!) about all of this in detail, & hope you enjoy your new Superchip!
