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AS I understand it, the memcal plugs into the ECM and has all the "clever" stuff in it and looks like:
The ECM looks like this:
Can anyone describe what the ECM does that is unique to it?
Seems as though you can use the ECM in many vehicles, its the MEMCAL that runs the fuel injection, sparks, all other engine controls..
Some ECMs were certainly "multi-purpose" and used for various engine platforms. An example I believe is the Syclone/Typhoon 1227749 that was also used for the 2.0 and 2.3 GMs. A 1227730 did 2.8, 2.0, 1.5, 3.1, 5.0, 5.7 and others.
There's a multitude of functions that the various ECMs allow that the PROM only "tunes" so to speak. Some ECMs allow no shift control etc.
Your 1227165 also did 2.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 5.7.
ECMs were certainly improved through the years.
Various ECM "platforms" are explained quite well here:
1987 Memcal VS ECM
