Swap from A4LD to M5OD ... change the timing?

[Zorro]

I read this in some tech article ... what gives? http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/A4LDto5Speed.html

Why should I change the timing? And isn't it included within the ECU? Does it mean I should grab the ECU from the donor truck?

I'm not there yet ... but I don't really get it. Unless this applies to older trucks ... in which case I assume I don't have to bother with it ... right?

 

[MAKG]

Hmm, I thought all RBVs used 10 deg BTDC with SPOUT removed. And 4.0Ls have no way to adjust it.

You will want the manual PCM anyway, since it's going to bitch about the nonexistent torque converter.

 

[silveranger93]

You will want the manual PCM anyway, since it's going to bitch about the nonexistent torque converter.

This is very true. It will aslo bitch about the nonexistent 3-4 shift solenoid and it will be confused as to what gear its supposed to be in. How do I know? My friend bought a Ranger that was converted to stick but left with the auto computer. It runs, but it's not very happy to say the least.

 

[Zorro]

Even on a 94? That's with the old non-electronic transmission ...

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Its still ECU controlled lock up on the torque and controls the shift solenoid.

 

[Totalled]

The timing tables are different. It will run better with the manual computer. Mine did.

 

[cocoasranger]

I swapped the Mazda trans for the A4LD in my 89 Ranger 4x4 while leaving the auto computer in place and did not change the timing. If anything, it runs stronger and smoother than before. I would like to know what exactly I am sacrificing by not using the manual ecu. The only thing I could find written was that the stick ecu cuts back the injectors during shifts resulting in about 1/2 mpg better fuel economy. Any other advantages to switching them.

 

[Zorro]

Ok, I'm disassembling the Explorer right now ... we're talking about the ignition control module right? The "thingie" that sits right behind the driver's side headlight?