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PCM - Rough Idle/Idle Surge

NO: 18-21-96

GROUP: Vehicle Performance

DATE: Aug. 23, 1996

SUBJECT:

Rough Idle

MODELS:

1994 - 1995 (BR) Ram Trucks

NOTE:
THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN 8.0L ENGINE AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

Rough idle or idle surge while moving slowly (parking lot speeds, approximately 10 mph or less - closed throttle).

DIAGNOSIS:

Using the Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS) or the Scan Tool (DRBIII) and appropriate Diagnostic Procedure Manual, verify that all engine systems are functioning correctly. If Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are present, record them on the repair order for future reference and repair as necessary. If any of the above conditions exist, perform the Repair Procedure.

EQUIPMENT/PARTS REQUIRED:

1 CH6OOO ScanTool (DRBIII)
1 CH7035 General Purpose Interface Bus Cable (GPIB)
1 CH7OOO J1962Cable
1 4669020 Label - Authorized Software Update
1 4275086 Label - Authorized Modification

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software (calibration change).

NOTE:
MDS AND DRBIII ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM THE FOLLOWING REPAIR. MDS MUST BE OPERATING WITH RELEASE 20 OR HIGHER AND TIL 1114 OR HIGHER INSTALLED.

1. Connect the MDS to the DRBIII and connect the DRBIII to the PCM Data Link Connector (DLC) and power them up.

2. Use the arrow keys and select # 2 MDS DIAGNOSTICS on the DRBIII MAIN MENU Screen.

3. Use the arrow keys and select DIAGNOSTIC MENU on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.

4. Use the arrow keys and select VEHICLE CONTROLLER PROGRAMMING on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.

5. Use the arrow keys and select PROGRAMMING OF ALL OTHER CONTROLLERS WITH MDS AND DRBIII on the MDS then press NEXT MENU.

6. Follow the steps presented on the MDS and DRBIII which will allow the DRBIII to obtain the current part number of the PCM.

7. The MDS will display the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and the appropriate replacement part number, then press NEXT MENU to begin programming.

NOTE:
SOME VEHICLES BUILT IN 1994 DO NOT HAVE PROGRAMMABLE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCM). REPLACEMENT PCMS DO CONTAIN THE ABILITY TO BE REPROGRAMMED. IF MDS RESPONDS WITH A MESSAGE "THIS CONTROLLER CANNOT BE PROGRAMED", REPLACE THE PCM AND PERFORM ALL UPDATES TO THE PCM BY PERFORMING THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THIS TSB. IF THE REPLACEMENT PCM HAS THE LATEST SOFTWARE CHANGES, A "NO UPDATES AVAILABLE" MESSAGE WILL BE DISPLAYED.

If the PCM on the vehicle has already been updated or programmed, a NO UPDATES AVAILABLE message will be displayed. Check the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and compare it to the part number displayed. If the PCM has already been updated, then a system problem actually exists and should be corrected.

8. The MDS and DRBIII will prompt the operator for any action needed during the remainder of the programming process.

NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING STEPS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW.





9. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Software Update" label, P/N 4669020. Attach the label to the PCM and cover the label with the clear plastic overlay.





10. Type the necessary information on the Authorized Modification Label and attach the label near the VECI Label.

POLICY: Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.

TIME ALLOWANCE:

Labor Operation No: Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
08-19-45-95 0.5 Hrs.

Replace and Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
08-19-45-98 0.7 Hrs.

FAILURE CODE: FM - Flash Module