Engine Controls - Check Engine ON, DTC 44 Lean Condition

Bulletin No. T 85-104
File in Group 6E
Number 17
Corp. Ref. No. 8055812
Date Aug. '85
SUBJECT: FALSE SETTING OF CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TROUBLE CODE 44 (LEAN CONDITION)

MODELS AFFECTED: 1985 CIMARRONS WITH 2.0L ENGINE (VIN CODE P) AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (MD9)

Some 1985 Cimarrons with the 2.0L engine and automatic transmission may set the Check Engine light (Code 44) after extended periods at idle. The setting of a false Code 44 will exhibit the following characteristics:

1. Vehicle must be started and remain in idle for fifty (50) or more seconds (Check Engine light will then set).

2. Check Engine light will go out with movement of the throttle (Code 44 will remain in ECM memory however).

3. Check Engine light will not reset again until the vehicle is restarted and remains in idle for fifty (50) or more seconds.

4. Code 44 is more likely to set on a cold or semi-warm engine than a hot engine.

Service PROM's are now available to repair the false setting of Code 44. On vehicles that have set a Code 44, the PROM should be replaced to repair a false code or to eliminate the potential for setting a false Code 44. On vehicles exhibiting characteristics other than those listed above (e.g., the Check Engine light does not go out with throttle movement), then normal diagnostic procedures for trouble Code 44 should be used to repair the condition.

Part numbers for service PROM's on vehicles with 2.0L engines and automatic transmissions are:

P/N 16054810 - All federal emissions (NA5) and either the 3.18 axle (F75) or 3.43 axle
(FW9).

P/N 16054815 - All with California emissions (NB2).

Use labor operation J6364, PROM REPLACE, .4 Hrs.