I’m looking to do a Obd2 swap for tune ability and easier diag. I grabbed a pcm off of a 2000 van (318 to 318) I’ve read that might be to new. Seems like what I can gather is 96-97 is the “golden years” for simplicity. But I haven’t been able to find much information backing those statements. Does any one know the ecm changes per year and sensors that changed with? I’m going to tune it with hp tuners so I should be able to turn unnecessary things off.

 

I believe in 97 they went to the can buss which for swapping in older trucks may be an issue. Stick with OBD2 before that. 92 and after for the 318 and 93 for the 360.

 

OBDII came about in 96.....Magnum engines came in 92 and 93.

Yes, 96-97 is the 'sweet spot' for swapability. In 98, Everything in the instrument cluster was driven via the PCM, and one of the temp sensors went away. (the one for the gauge....) If you have an automatic trans, 96 was also the first year of the RE transmission, so, something to keep in mind.

 

I already have the 318 magnum and all that wiring, I’m wondering if I could piggy back the temp sensors to run the gauge and the pcm or did they use different range of sensor. I’m currently running a 727 so transmission control should not be a problem. I would just go grab the 96/97 pcm but the wreckers have dried up for all those trucks already.

 

The more I look into the inputs of the later pcms I’m realizing better off with the older one. Guess I’ll hurry up and wait for the wreckers to get what I need.

 

96 and 97 trucks, most of the gauges were driven off of actual sensors. The stuff that went thru the PCM is still the same on the early OBDII systems. (tach, etc.) The PCM IS going to want VSS input though, if your current trans has a cable driven speedometer, that's gonna be an issue. So, why not just get the correct trans (also 96-97) and get that 4th gear as well.

 

Electric speedo started in '90. The mechanical drive is converted to electric with a transducer. This style ran at least thru '95, maybe longer.

 

My 96 had one of those as well. I suspect they were a thing until the 98 model year, when the VSS on the trans went away entirely.

 

my truck is a bastardized mix of a 85, 88 and 93. The problem with getting a newer trans is the transfer case switch around they did. Would be easier as a 2wd for sure.

I’ll look into the transducers.

 

Found on a Dakota forum for a 1998

“The PCM adjusts ignition timing based upon inputs it receives from sensors that react to: engine rpm, manifold absolute pressure, engine coolant temperature, throttle position, transmission gear selection (automatic transmission), vehicle speed and the
brake switch.

The PCM adjusts idle speed based on inputs it receives from sensors that react to: throttle position, vehicle speed, transmission gear selection, engine coolant temperature and from inputs it receives from the air conditioning clutch switch and brake switch.

Based on inputs that it receives, the PCM adjusts ignition coil dwell. The PCM also adjusts the generator charge rate through control of the generator field and provides speed control operation."

im sure the same applied for the 96/97. My first hurdle before I even get started will be this vehicle speed sensor. If I can’t find an easy way to fix it I’ll probably set up a tone ring off the drive shaft and have it read that.