So I just picked up a 1988 3.9 5spd 4x4.
Nice little truck and I got it for a hellva deal ($700)
Runs solid but I like to play with my trucks (my last truck was a 1989 2.3 4x4 Ranger)
So I am looking under the hood and I notice the stock air intake has an outlet that acts as an ECM cooler.
My question is this:
Can I remove the stock setup and put on an old school circular air cleaner and NOT fry my ECM? My biggest concern is frying my ECM. AND if so does anybody have a suggestion as to which? I like K&N but they are imo overpriced. My wife's TDI beetle has a custom (doc george built) air intake and is delightful.

thanks in advance

 

It should be fine. The newer PCM don't have the air cleaner setup. They look to be made of the same materials.