2.3L ('83-'97) Does 1996 2.3L PCM require speed signal?

[RayInStl]

My question is this:

Does the PCM for a 1996 2.3L need the speed sensor signal in order to run properly?

Details:

• I'm working on a project to transplant a 1996 2.3L engine and it's associated electronics into my 83 4x4. This includes the PCM and all wiring for the OBD-II, sensors, port, etc.
• I plan to keep the TK5 that's in the 83, at least for now.
• I don't think the speed sensor from the 96 (auto) transmission will fit the TK5, though I haven't tried.
• The PCM is for an automatic, so I know it will throw codes with the manual transmission.
• My current plan is to use my original cluster and speedometer cable and just ignore the CEL until I can source a manual transmission PCM, assuming the speed signal isn't important for engine operation.

Thanks!

 

[scotts90ranger]

The only thing it uses the speed signal for is for the IAC to turn it back on when coming down to a stop, what it does when it's disconnected I am not sure...

You shouldn't need to use the speed sensor from the donor, but if you find the cable end from something a little newer that has RABS to get that sensor on the end of the mechanical cable you should probably be good to go... might need the whole cable to do that but shouldn't be a huge deal.

 

[SenorNoob]

IDK about the TK5 but my FM146 and M5OD both used the same speed sensor on the end of the cable. It looks remarkable similar to the one Rockauto lists for the 96... And the one listed for an 83 with 2.3. I'd almost bet they all output the same signal.

 

[RayInStl]

I'll see if it swaps over. Thanks for the input fellas!

 

[scotts90ranger]

The manual trans sensor and hole should be the same between all of the manual Ranger options, I just don't know if the auto trans one is different...