computer swap?

Topic: computer swap? (Read 1357 times) previous topic - next topic

computer swap?

March 10, 2007, 11:37:08 PM

I'm on my way to the salvage yard tommorow in search of a computer for my 86' 3.8 Bird. I figured I could use one from any 86' 3.8 cfi T-Bird/Couger, but I've been told that there are a few different types. I also had one person tell me that I could use any 3.8 computer, but I had to use a chip from the computer I'm taking out of my car. I find that to be very unlikely. The yard only wants $14 for the computer and you have to strip your own parts, so even if I can't find one it's going to be interesting to see what else I can find! A salvage yard that let's you get your own parts "cheap" & they are open on Sunday. Is this heaven or what? ( U-Pull-It, West Alexander P.A.)

computer swap?

Reply #1 – March 11, 2007, 10:09:53 AM

Grab one from an 86 so you have no issues at all.

Dont listen to that person, there is no "chip" in these cars. Sounds like a carburator guy trying to speak about fuel injection.

computer swap?

Reply #2 – March 11, 2007, 11:28:16 AM

Thanks man, on my way there now!!

computer swap?

Reply #3 – March 11, 2007, 03:57:34 PM

Technical Service Bulletin 85-24-12

Replaces the processors (EEC) in 84 and 85 3.8 CFI cars with the 86 processor.
This is the cure for 5 drivability problems:
Hesitation During Acceleration
Power Low During Acceleration
Surge at Road Speeds
Knock, Cold
Stalls During Cold Engagement

Bottom line, don't get an 84 or 85 processor.

computer swap?

Reply #4 – March 11, 2007, 04:00:35 PM

Quote

Technical Service Bulletin 85-24-12

Replaces the processors (EEC) in 84 and 85 3.8 CFI cars with the 86 processor.
This is the cure for 5 drivability problems:
Hesitation During Acceleration
Power Low During Acceleration
Surge at Road Speeds
Knock, Cold
Stalls During Cold Engagement

Bottom line, don't get an 84 or 85 processor.

Agreed. I had that problem with my old '84 back in 1987 after I first bought it. It took almost a year to track down the problem to the EEC-IV processor, after many other things were replaced (thankfully under extended warranty). The new processor fixed everything perfectly. Since the 1986 processor seems to be the solution, don't settle for less than that.

computer swap?

Reply #5 – March 11, 2007, 08:19:41 PM

I spent all day in mud up to my knees in a salvage yard that claims to have over 1,800 cars! It was a pretty good time, but the only had one fox body cougar and not a single Bird. I did see a shiznit load of 89 & up. I lucked out , and the couger was a 1986 with a 3.8! I also picked up a fan shroud for $7.00. The bad news is the computer wasn't my problem. I'm going back outside to frustrate myself with it now, so if I have no luck I'll be back with full details of my PAIN!

:shoothead

computer swap?

Reply #6 – March 11, 2007, 10:29:15 PM

'86 gained adaptive strategy
'87 gained FMEM

'87 is the "best" 3.8 CFI EEC

computer swap?

Reply #7 – March 14, 2007, 10:34:53 AM

Quote from: JeremyB;133880

'86 gained adaptive strategy
'87 gained FMEM

'87 is the "best" 3.8 CFI EEC

And the last...:D

computer swap?

Reply #8 – March 14, 2007, 02:13:57 PM

For those who didn't know (including myself) what FMEM is:

Quote

Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) is an alternate system strategy in the PCM designed to maintain engine operation if one or more sensor inputs fail.

When a sensor input is perceived to be out-of-limits by the PCM, an alternative strategy is initiated. The PCM substitutes a fixed value and continues to monitor the incorrect sensor input. If the suspect sensor operates within limits, the PCM returns to the normal engine operational strategy.

All FMEM sensors display a sequence error message on the scan tool. The message may or may not be followed by Key On Engine Off or Continuous Memory DTCs when attempting Key On Engine Running Self-Test Mode.

computer swap?

Reply #9 – March 14, 2007, 04:46:46 PM

Quote from: V8Demon;134489

For those who didn't know (including myself) what FMEM is:

And that's why few sensors actually make a big difference in drivability... Other than the MAP on SD EECs, the MAF on Mass Air, or the throttle position sensor on either system, the computer substitutes a fixed value from the internal software(lookup tables), or goes with the last good configuration if the sensor fails in operation...

Things like o2 sensors generally have almost no effect on drivability(Yeah your gas mileage will likely suck)...