ecu flash question...
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 19
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ecu flash question...
i've been all over these forums and can't seem to find helpful threads. if this is a repeat, sorry. i have a bone stock 96 lt1 auto trans basic coupe with a heat related ecu problem. this ecu has a chip mounted in the bottom. if i replace the ecu with a remanufactured unit, can i simply plug in my old chip and be good to go, or is there more to it? if the new unit requires flashing, how do i get that done? thanks, you guys are great.
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,704
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96 ecm are OBD2,the ecm are sealed from the factory and no more removable chip.These ECM are flashable unit,a new remanufactured one has to be reflashed with the firmware for your platform Ybody.You can simply flash into the new .bin file using the service obd2 link under the dash ,with your laptop and a software OBD2 (winflash from tunecat site),and the right file.Obviously the GM dealer has hardware and software to do it.I'm an OBD1 guy so i think some LT1 guys can chime here...
Last edited by tunedport85inject; Feb 24, 2014 at 12:24 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 3,660
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if you have a "prom" that's set in the accessible socket then you have an older OBD-I system. If so, then swap out the PROM and it should be good to go. As stated, OBD-II is a 'flash' the ecm deal where OBD-I you were able to flash the prom and move it around. Each has its downside...
I guess the versatility of the OBD-II and being able to change programming while sitting in the car makes it a much nicer system as long as you have the laptop and cables.
I guess the versatility of the OBD-II and being able to change programming while sitting in the car makes it a much nicer system as long as you have the laptop and cables.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 19
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wow, now i'm way confused. when i have codes read at my local autozone, they use a obdII code reader that plugs in under my steering wheel. works great. but i seem to have an obdI ecm because it has a eprom card in a compartment on the bottom of the unit. as far as i know, this ecm is original to the car. i can't seem to find an obdI ecm at a reasonable price. can i substitute an obdII ecm and have someone flash it? if so, who could do it? thanks again. just sign me "baffled in belmont".
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,704
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i don't understand,are you sayin you have a 96 with an obd1 ecm on it?
the pics i posted before is the original ecm for 96 MY
now i post some pics of previous years ECM's:
1985 ECM 870 (with MAF module mounted on it)
1986-89 ecm 165
late obd1 730-727 ECM's 1990-1991
1992-1993 LT1 ecm's
1994-1996 ecm's
the pics i posted before is the original ecm for 96 MY
now i post some pics of previous years ECM's:
1985 ECM 870 (with MAF module mounted on it)
1986-89 ecm 165
late obd1 730-727 ECM's 1990-1991
1992-1993 LT1 ecm's
1994-1996 ecm's
Last edited by tunedport85inject; Feb 24, 2014 at 05:23 PM.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 19
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thanks, tunedport. my ecm has serv. no. 16214399 written on a sticker on top of the ecm. when i remove the ecm from its bracket and turn it over, there is an access panel on the bottom. there are two filtered vent holes built into the cover. upon removing the cover by unscrewing two star drive screws, you can see what i assume is an eprom chip plugged into a circuit board. this chip is removable. do i have an obd2 ecm with an eprom chip? if so, can i buy a replacement ecm and insert my current chip and be good to go? i would be happy to attach photos if any of my dialogue was unclear. thanks again.
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Drifting
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,704
Likes: 8
please post detailed pics of your ECM,we can go deeper,as you can see the 94-96 aluminum housing ecm is sealed and has no door or opening,just 2 waterpack connectors
edit:
ops thanks,now i can clearly see...but even if it has something inside like a prom,belive this is a flashable unit,and the interface is the ALDL link under the stering wheel.
edit:
ops thanks,now i can clearly see...but even if it has something inside like a prom,belive this is a flashable unit,and the interface is the ALDL link under the stering wheel.
Last edited by tunedport85inject; Feb 24, 2014 at 06:07 PM.
Race Director
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St. Jude Donor '16
96 is OBD2 and the first year for a true OBD2...
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Dec 2013
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thanks, you've been lots of help. now can you or someone else point me toward a business (preferably not the chevy stealer) that can perform a satisfactory flash? i'm computer literate, but use linux exclusively, so diy through windows won't work.
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St. Jude Donor '16
Not sure where you hail from, So do a search on the net for tuners in your area and call them to see if they 96 corvettes. You can also post in the Regional Discussion area for your area and ask if anyone knows a good tuner. If your car is stock what do you want to change? as its going to cost $, Good luck
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From: Compound in the Grove, Ga.
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If I'm not mistaken when you have one redone or buy a reman. unit they will ask for your specs Auto/LT1..and it will come as a plug and play unit.
Safety Car
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I was kinda wondering wtf a 'prom' would be doing in a '96....
His unit must be in the "transition" where the OBD-I was evolved into a OBD-II but not yet designed as the obd-II.
Transition years can be confusing with parts.
His unit must be in the "transition" where the OBD-I was evolved into a OBD-II but not yet designed as the obd-II.
Transition years can be confusing with parts.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2002
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From: Compound in the Grove, Ga.
2026 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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St. Jude Donor '16