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What programming of pcm (computer) for LS engine

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Old Aug 31, 2008 | 03:02 PM
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Default What programming of pcm (computer) for LS engine

I need to know what to tell a supplier about programming an PCM for my LS swap. The engine will have 243 heads, 225/229 cam (approx 580 lifts), headers and LS6 intake. Alternator is a chrome aftermarket piece for LS engine. The trans is a tremec 5 from classic chevy 5 speed. I have a Vintage air AC. Will be using dual spal fans 2700 cfm. The fuel pump is mounted in a stainless steel tank from Rock Valley (LS1 pump). THe rear is a 3:55 custom C4.

I am using a 2004 Corvette PCM and harness.
Here is his suggested check list.

"Off Road Use Only Custom Tuning Checklist"
- Eliminate VATS (vehicle anti-theft system)
- Rear O2 Sensors Delete
- Fan 1 Temperature On and Off Changed
- Fan 2 Temperature On and Off Changed
- Axle Ratio Changed
- Tire Size Changed
- Top MPH Raised
- RPM Limit Raised
- Diagnostic Trouble Codes Delete
- A/C Deleted
- EGR Deleted
- Air Pump Deleted
- Fuel Tank Pressure Sensors Delete
- Eliminate Skip Shift (manual)
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Old Aug 31, 2008 | 04:02 PM
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Good list to start with but you will also need to:

If you are using a Drive By Cable throttle body you will be better off to wipe the computer and start with a Camaro program. Will save some trouble.

You will have to kill any CEL/DTC codes related to the transmission.

The Cam is a medium duration/lift but stout enough I would adjust the tune for it. Any decent tuner can help you out but you will need to play with Timing, Base Running Airflow, Idle, Open Loop EQ and Power Enrichment to start. I would also turn off all Torque Management and Disable Cat OverTermp.

The Fan Temp enable will not make any difference as you will probably be using the Spal thermostat and relays.

Does the T5 have a VSS (vehical Speed Sensor) compatible with the PCM signal? If not, or if manual speedo, then the VSS, gear and tire settings will do you no good either.

If using an electronic tach, take the white wire #10 from the Red connector (If I remember correctly) and bring that to the Tach but set the Tach for a 4 Cylinder Input signal to make it work correctly (Tach only works off of one bank of 4 coils).

If I think of more I'll let you know but that should more then get you up and running then a tuner can tweak it.
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Old Aug 31, 2008 | 06:02 PM
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If you are going to be using AC, I would think that you would want the AC still in the PCM. I would guess that the motor would bog or die if the PCM did not adjust the idle for the AC. I do know the PCM tells the AC to turn off and on at a prescribed throttle position. It also turns the AC off and on at prescribed RPMs.
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Old Aug 31, 2008 | 06:58 PM
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Thanks for the input fellas. I am using a cable throttle so I'll check if he can do F-body. I'm using and electronic tach (had it converted) and a mechanical speedo. I do have the spal t stat sensor, relays.

Joe,
Car looks great. I saw it at Carlisle, but didn't get a chance to talk to you or the other guys in the choice row.
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Old Sep 2, 2008 | 07:14 AM
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Originally Posted by Eddie 70
If you are going to be using AC, I would think that you would want the AC still in the PCM. I would guess that the motor would bog or die if the PCM did not adjust the idle for the AC. I do know the PCM tells the AC to turn off and on at a prescribed throttle position. It also turns the AC off and on at prescribed RPMs.
If tuned right these motors have more than enough to continue to idle properly when the A/C is on. I use the stock 81 A/C system with just a different compressor so therefore my PCM does not know when the A/C is on. Even with the cam and SuperCharger she just purrs right along. When you flip the switch it wavors for a plit second but then could care less.
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