I would think a replacement PCM would have to be flashed with the right code for your exact model. At least I don't think a 98 has PATS to worry about.

 

Ahh, that's right. Pretty sure the 99's had PATS - 98's don't. That makes sense about new PCM "flashed" - A used one, if you want to chance it , shouldn't I would think. I wonder what they charge just to flash a PCM ?

 

If the used PCM isn't out of the exact same model, a reflash may be necessary - that's what I'm thinking. I think it's about 75 bucks to do it.

 

Yea, used, it would have to be out of 97-98 4.6L w/auto trans. The only update for the 4r70w was the seals from 97 - 98 and that doesn't effect tuning. So that's what to look for, if you were getting a used PCM. - The cheapest route any ho. And of course installing yourself.

I would go for the new one myself w/ford programming it , if it's only around $75 for them to flash.

Thing is , the dealership quoted the OP $700 for the whole job. Is there that much labor involved? Where's the expense coming from?

Heres the procedure to remove -

Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Removal

1. Disconnect the battery ground cable.
2. Disconnect the solenoid electrical and vacuum connections.
3. Disconnect the windshield washer hose locator.
4. Remove the solenoid bracket.
5. Loosen the retainer and disconnect the powertrain control module (PCM) electrical connector.
6. Remove the right front door scuff plate.
7. Remove the right cowl side trim panel.
8. Remove the clip and remove the PCM.

That's about it. So, again - Wheres the expense???

 

Retail price for the new PCM itself is the bulk of that cost.

Rock Auto has remans in the $120 to $150 range with a $70 core charge, they all require reprogramming to the vehicle VIN. There are quite a few different calibrations listed, all with a different part number, you have to figure out which exact one to order.

 

Ahh, that explains it.

 

i bought one off ebay a while back for right at $200 i believe (this is when autozone fried my pcm) then i want to say the ford place charged me another $300 to program everything... sucked big time man i know how ya feel. just make CERTAIN you get the engine code off your pcm you have now.

 

300 bucks to program a PCM? That's ridiculous. Was that revenge for not buying it from them or something?

 

ford gods.... you know how grumpy they get

 

When I was talking to the mechanic that worked on my truck. I asked him about what was involved doing the PCM change he told me that he would have to download specific data for my year and motor codes. He also told me that somthing would have caused the PCM to malfunction and his thought was a bad MAF.I disconnected the battery overnight, I have not driven it yet.Il looked at Rock for a MAF I can get a Autozone or a Napa for around 90.When I asked the Mech about a reman MAF he gives me a lecture that a Ford new on is the only way to go, I talk to the parts dept and thier MAF is a Ford reman.Iam going to just drive it untill I figure out my next move.Iam going to talk to some of the "better" shops in my area and see if they can do the job and download what it needs. I called the first shop that looked at it and they told me when they ran it on their scanner(Snap on mdl) that it didn't show any errors. So this just started or was intermittent at first?I will let you know what I find out. Thanks again everyone!!

 

The PCM itself seldom fails - and when it does it usually kills the vehicle totally.

 

The light came back on after maybe 10-12 miles.Thats funny I asked the Ford tec what would happen if the PCM went what would happen? He told me that I would still be able to drive the truck,but I might run hot and cook my cat convertors. Which made me think if the PCM cooked wouldn't it just die? I am glad you told me . Now I wonder if he really knows whats wrong.I am going to pick up a new(REman) MAF tommorow from Napa.ALso if you change thePCM is the truck drivable or do you have to re-program it. I was wondering if I got my own how to take it to a Ford dealer take to get it programed ?

 

You might wanna try Global Auto before you get a reman - Chances are , you can get a new one for the same price. Kev has some pretty good deals and is expanding pretty fast. He's attempting to corner the market in volume sales. To do that, you have to sell a hair above cost and carry quality merchandise.

Good for him and real good for us...

 

Well I changed the MAF.I left the battery(both cables) un -hooked for 3 hours.It has been 135 miles and 3days and THE LIGHT IS OFF!!.So far so good.The truck runs better no spark knock at all.I have no way to scan it exept Auto zone. I dont know if they can read everything. THANK YOU to everyone who posted on this problem.Especially Jbrew, Jmc-in-Alaska,Bluegrass,R1jester,glc. Jbrew you helped untill I fixed it! Your advise was so valuable,to be able to ask qustions and get help made it happen.If you where closer I would come over with a case of jbrews for you! Thanks again to everyone!!

 

heck i'm gonna have to try all this so that i can get my light to go off.