I got this Ford Ranger off a friend and need some advice on how to fix it

[warriorboxerdog1]

Before I got it he replaced the PCM because it was miss firing one cylinder. After he replaced the pcm it won’t shift or go over like 25 or 30 mph. It didn’t have this problem before swapping the PCM. I’m thinking the new PCM isn’t programmed for the truck. What is the best route to go? Reprogram the PCM that’s already in the truck? Buy one that is already programmed? Thanks.

 

[franklin2]

Is this a 1997 ranger? What engine? What transmission?

 

[rumblecloud]

No east answer here as franklin2 suggests.

Need lots more info in addition to what has already bee posted. 4x4, 4x2, Cali or US, etc,..post back with more info.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I'd get the original PCM back and fix the misfire code.

But yeah... tell us what you're working with.

 

[warriorboxerdog1]

I'd get the original PCM back and fix the misfire code.

But yeah... tell us what you're working with.

97 ford Ranger 2wd 4.0L I will see if he still has the original PCM. If he doesn’t what would you do? Order a new PCM that’s already been programmed? Is there away to get the one that’s installed programmed? Thanks

 

[warriorboxerdog1]

I’m not sure what transmission is in it. I know it an automatic.

 

[don4331]

Transmission will be 4R55E, only choice for '97 4.0

https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/ford-ranger-automatic-transmissions/#gsc.tab=0

And I don't think the PCM cares if 4wd or 2wd; but it definitely cares which engine and automatic vs manual.

So, if you can't get the original PCM back, you need a '95-97 one for the 4.0 with Auto.

I'm assuming US truck (non-California) based on location your header.

 

[franklin2]

I know if you pulled the codes on the older PCM's, it would tell you how many cylinders it was supposed to have. I wonder since this is a OBDII PCM, if you pull the codes it may tell you more than that. They do use the physically same computer for all the different engines

 

[don4331]

I know if you pulled the codes on the older PCM's, it would tell you how many cylinders it was supposed to have. I would since this is a OBDII PCM, if you pull the codes it may tell you more than that. They do use the physically same computer for all the different engines

Yes, as an OBDII computer it would have a significant amount of information on original vehicle - VIN, engine, transmission, axle ratios, tire sizes, etc.

And its really difficult (by design) to reprogram the PCM for a combination it was coded for in the 1st place.