Does anyone know the location of the vats moduale on my 98?

 

I think its part of the PCM....

 

The VATS function is in the BCM, which sends a "OK to start" signal to the PCM if the key resistor matches the value stored in the BCM.

 

oh ok. I just picked up 2 lightly wrecked 98's. one didnt have an ignition switch so i used the one from the other car. It wouldnt crank over with the key. the car has power and i can get it to crank by jumping the starter but it wont run, just starts and dies. so i swaped the computer and i got it to crank but still just starts and dies. i was wondering if theres a vats modual in the car i need to swap to reconize the other ignition and key?

 

The pellet in the key must match the value the BCM is expecting and stored in memory. Also, the BCM and PCM will share an internal password between them and if they don't match or the key pellet reisitance is wrong, it won't start. If you replaced either the PCM or BCM, you need a Tech 2 to fix it or go through the manual relearn procedure.

 

dgrant3830 gave you the right answer.... let me just add to it a little ...

You are trying exactly the stuff the car is designed to prevent. A thief might try to swap out the ignition lock for another one that they have a key for .... but the BCM is expectings the VATS pellet to have a certain resistance .... and if it is the "wrong" resistance .... YOU loose .....

If you try swapping out the BCM ... then the "new" BCM won't match on the password in the PCM ... you'll get cranking, but the PCM will not provide fuel to the engine ..... and if you swap out the PCM you will still hit the password problem .....

Also ... be aware that swapping computers will create other problems in the car .... the SDM (controls the airbags ... may not matter if the airbags already fired) will disable the airbag system if you swap out either the PCM or BCM without "reprogramming" them all back into synch .... the SDM will now have a B1001 set and the airbag light will be on indicating the system is disabled.

You need to get an ignition switch and key .... easiest is to take proof of ownership (personal ID and the title papers for the car) to a Chevy dealer and they can look up the correct key information for the car based on the VIN. They can cut a "correct" key that will also work the door locks and glove box door. Then order an ignition lock and either the dealer or a locksmith (dealer is probably easiest) can reset the new ignition lock to accept the "old" key.

 

ok that makes sense. ya i am planning on getting a new ignition and key, i thought i could change a few things to start it to make sure the engine is good. ill wait till i get the right setup. thanks for your help!!!