Which ECU am I using???

[dasfinc]

98 ranger, using returnless fuel rails, I want to maintain the speedo system *so 99+ explorer*

So Can I use the 99 5.0 ECU, harness, and Returnless system without problems on a 98 ranger? or will there be any issues running 99 hardware on the 98 platform?

Or is this 100% Ideal to be using the 99+ Explorer Intake manifold, Rails, ECU so everything becomes just 'plug and play' it would appear for the speedo, and the fuel system?
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BMW K1200GT

 

[V8 Level II]

The 99 Ex PCM is set up for PATS and the 98 Ranger is not. That will have to be dealt with by either adding the Ex PATS components and wiring OR by turning PATS off in software using aftermarket tuning software.

Also, in addition to the items you mentioned, the swap from 98 to 99 would require 17# injectors and the correct 99~2001 Cam Position Sensor and Synchronizer.

If you also intend to use the 98 4R70W transmission, there are mechanical and electrical differences compared wih the 99 4R70W. This matters because the transmission is controlled by the same PCM as the engine.

 

[dasfinc]

The 99 Ex PCM is set up for PATS and the 98 Ranger is not. That will have to be dealt with by either adding the Ex PATS components and wiring OR by turning PATS off in software using aftermarket tuning software.

So will the 97 ECU have problems with the speedo and returnless fuel rails?
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video reviews

 

[Mac]

I'm interested in this answer myself, always learning something.
Dave

 

[V8 Level II]

So will the 97 ECU have problems with the speedo and returnless fuel rails?

Yes to the fuel rail part. The 97 PCM is calibrated for 30~40 psi fuel pressure and the 99~2001 is straight 65 PSI. You would need to use the 98-back return rails and convert to a return type fuel pump and fuel lines to make it work properly.

The 98 Ranger speedometer (and speed input to the PCM and cruise) is not a problem because it already has a conversion module onboard for the VSS - either the GEM module for RABS or the 4WABS module for 4WABS.

 

[dasfinc]

Yes to the fuel rail part. The 97 PCM is calibrated for 30~40 psi fuel pressure and the 99~2001 is straight 65 PSI. You would need to use the 98-back return rails and convert to a return type fuel pump and fuel lines to make it work properly.

The 98 Ranger speedometer (and speed input to the PCM and cruise) is not a problem because it already has a conversion module onboard for the VSS - either the GEM module for RABS or the 4WABS module for 4WABS.

So honestly, using a 99 ECU and cracking the PATS with a hand held tuner may be the best option as far as minimizing complexity? *Not having to add return lines, not having to change fuel system, speedo, etc*
________
buying vaporizer

 

[V8 Level II]

So honestly, using a 99 ECU and cracking the PATS with a hand held tuner may be the best option as far as minimizing complexity? *Not having to add return lines, not having to change fuel system, speedo, etc*

I would use the 99 PCM, rails, injectors, CMP/synchronizer and harness provided that I was also using a 99~2001 4R70W transmission. Then either add the necessary PATS components or calibrate PATS out.

 

[dasfinc]

I would use the 99 PCM, rails, injectors, CMP/synchronizer and harness provided that I was also using a 99~2001 4R70W transmission. Then either add the necessary PATS components or calibrate PATS out.

CMP/Sync? What is that?

Why does the trans need to be 99-01? VERY hard to find 2wd 5.0 4R70W's in my area, I was just going to pull a 96+ 3.8 stang trans since it shares belhousings?

Is there a way to hard-wire PATS? Ala Kill switch emulating the PATS ignition column? I'd like to add an anti-theft feature ontop of knocking PATS out of the equation.
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DR200

 

[V8 Level II]

CMP=Camshaft Position Sensor, 96~98 is different from 99~01, must match to the PCM and the harness.

The Synchronizer is the gear drive and body for the CMP. 96~98 is different from 99~01, must match the CMP.

4R70W - As I said before, there were electrical and mechanical changes over the years, especially 98 to 99. A 99~01 Ex 5.0 PCM should be matched to a 99~01 Ex 4R70W.

The PATS Module and PCM communicate to decide if its OK to fire the engine. I don't know of any way to trick it with wiring. However, PATS can be turned off in software.