Ecm
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Rookie
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 78
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From: Ont.
Ecm
I've had the truck plugged in and scanned at 3 different places and they all say that the TPS signal don't match the voltage . I've replaced the TPS and it runs better but now they all say I need to replace the ECM. The ones on Ebay all want my VIN and mileage. I've found one at a local place here that is the same number as mine. Is it OK to get it and just plug in and all will be as good as new?
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 458
Likes: 1
From: Alabama
I would have to ask, what is the actual code? Is it maybe TPS/MAP correlation? In that case its probably something other than a bad TPS. The only reason I say that is that I haven't seen many Dakota PCM's fail with issues like that and there is no set voltage numbers based on the TPS signal. Before I spent the cash to get a new PCM that you can't return, I would take it to the dealership or a place other than parts stores and "round-the-corner" mechanics to make sure whats wrong with it.
Champion
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,051
Likes: 6
From: Roanoke, Texas
I would have to ask, what is the actual code? Is it maybe TPS/MAP correlation? In that case its probably something other than a bad TPS. The only reason I say that is that I haven't seen many Dakota PCM's fail with issues like that and there is no set voltage numbers based on the TPS signal. Before I spent the cash to get a new PCM that you can't return, I would take it to the dealership or a place other than parts stores and "round-the-corner" mechanics to make sure whats wrong with it.
Check your TPS voltage before doing this modification as none of the factory sensors are calibrated the same. We've seen ranges from .3v-.7v...from the factory. Connect a Digital Volt Meter to the middle terminal on the TPS sensor (with the harness connected and the Key-ON/Engine-OFF). If it's close to .7v...leave it alone.
(1) Remove your TPS Sensor from the vehicle (Located on the drivers side of the throttle body - 3-Wire Connector)
(2) Put the TPS into a vice and drill the two brass inserts out of the casing with a 1/4" or 7/32" drill bit (drill from the back of the sensor...not the front). You'll need to push on the drill as it will only spin the inserts...once they're heated up enough, they'll pop right out.
(3) Clean up the holes with either the drill or (preferred) a small round file.
(4) Reinstall the TPS Sensor on the throttle body. You'll need two small washers on the screws as the holes are now bigger than the screw head. Leave it slightly loose as you're going to have to set the initial Key ON/Engine OFF Voltage before starting the engine.
(5) Reconnect the TPS sensor harness and connect a Digital Volt Meter to the middle terminal on the TPS Sensor (you can poke through the weather-proof connector).
(6) Turn the ignition key ON but do NOT start the engine.
(7) Set the initial voltage (by turning it with your fingers) on the TPS at about .7 volts. (Optimum range is from .7 - .75 volts)
(8) Tighten down the TPS screws and check the voltage one more time (yes...it can move slightly when tightening it down)
(9) Start the engine but do NOT step on the accelerator pedal...let the computer learn the new initial voltage setting.
(10) Turn the engine off and close the hood...drive away of you want...your throttle response should be much more precise now.
(1) Remove your TPS Sensor from the vehicle (Located on the drivers side of the throttle body - 3-Wire Connector)
(2) Put the TPS into a vice and drill the two brass inserts out of the casing with a 1/4" or 7/32" drill bit (drill from the back of the sensor...not the front). You'll need to push on the drill as it will only spin the inserts...once they're heated up enough, they'll pop right out.
(3) Clean up the holes with either the drill or (preferred) a small round file.
(4) Reinstall the TPS Sensor on the throttle body. You'll need two small washers on the screws as the holes are now bigger than the screw head. Leave it slightly loose as you're going to have to set the initial Key ON/Engine OFF Voltage before starting the engine.
(5) Reconnect the TPS sensor harness and connect a Digital Volt Meter to the middle terminal on the TPS Sensor (you can poke through the weather-proof connector).
(6) Turn the ignition key ON but do NOT start the engine.
(7) Set the initial voltage (by turning it with your fingers) on the TPS at about .7 volts. (Optimum range is from .7 - .75 volts)
(8) Tighten down the TPS screws and check the voltage one more time (yes...it can move slightly when tightening it down)
(9) Start the engine but do NOT step on the accelerator pedal...let the computer learn the new initial voltage setting.
(10) Turn the engine off and close the hood...drive away of you want...your throttle response should be much more precise now.
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 458
Likes: 1
From: Alabama
The biggest thing that you have to pay attention to is the throttle percentage. As long as it is 0% at idle you shouldn't have any problems. It can be lower than .7, I think the diagnostics say anything lower than .45 is out of range.
Registered User
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: Northwest CT
It is something with the 2001 only I think. Mine was more of a lighting issue, taillights working when they wanted to, wipers randomly coming on, etc, it ended up being the body control module, which we got from the dealership (it is located in driver's side kick panel) and seems to have solved the prob. Now we are having some engine issues and I am thinking we might need a new ECM, personally, I will be going to dodge for it. I hate our local dealership, but there are a few things you don't want to get used or aftermarket. That is one of them.
