And how can I even be sure that I have the death flash? Looking at the computer there is a tag with handwriting that says "Authorized dealership PCM reprogram" with a bunch of numbers and it's dated 8-5-00 on the PCM itself and on the hood there is a sticker with the same thing.

 

That is the tell tale sign of the death flash. All of that writing is what the death flash indicates. That authorized dealership reprogram is the death flash that was done. I think just about every truck on here has/had it at one point.

 

Ok I thought I was correct that the term used by Dodge for the control module is PCM. I was apparently misquoting it as an ECM as per just about every other manufacturer of automobiles. If I am mistaken then where is the ECM located Aims? I want to be up to speed on this as not to give bad information.

 

You've got me interested as well.

 

I am gonna go do a search on the difference for our trucks specifically to find out for sure what the proper nomenclature is.

 

Guess what I just checked on it and according to the TSB that I pulled up about issues with it they have it listed like this. The PCM/ECM may need to have a software update. the only place I could find a reference to them being two seperate units is on the diesel engine equipped trucks.

 

PCM is Powertrain Control Module and ECM is Engine Control Module- same thing in both cases as it is referring to the controller. I have never seen ECU- Engine Control Unit. At least for Dodge. But, who knows.

 

If you download the FSM you can see the schematic for the ECM and Fuel injector control module and where it's located. Chrysler uses ECM for engine control module and PCM for powertrain control module, but it's confusing as most other manufacturers use ECM the way Chrysler uses PCM.

The Chrysler ECM only really controls the fuel delivery system, but it does have a "memory" system to it. It almost never gets mentioned or worried about, but it is something to consider when looking for fuel related problems.

Terranova, that extra bit of information you just gave explains exactly why your truck malfunctioned. a custom tune was built for his truck. Being far more heavily modded than yours, your truck didn't stand a chance running it correctly. Sorry for the BS call, but with the info you gave previously, I had no other explanation for your problem.

That custom tune might very well have his VIN number in there, and since your PCM's VIN didn't match a known VIN, it didn't program it. The generic ones for sale to the public only read the VIN and store it on the initial install so you cannot tune multiple vehicles at the same time.

 

OK but where is the ECM located if it is different than the PCM? I have never seen another controller anywhere in my truck and I have had all of the possible locations opened up for various reasons.

 

Straight from the FSM:

The ECM is bolted to the left side of the engine
behind the fuel filter (Fig. 14). It is a separate component
and can be serviced. The FPCM is internal to
the fuel injection pump (Fig. 15) and cannot be serviced.
OPERATION - ECM
The main functions of the Engine Control Module
(ECM) and Fuel Injection Pump Control Module
(FPCM) are to electrically control the fuel system.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) does not
control the fuel system.
The ECM can adapt its programming to meet
changing operating conditions. If the ECM has
been replaced, flashed or re-calibrated, the
ECM must learn the Accelerator Pedal Position
Sensor (APPS) idle voltage. Failure to learn
this voltage may result in unnecessary diagnostic
trouble codes. Refer to ECM Removal/Installation
for learning procedures.
The ECM receives input signals from various
switches and sensors. Based on these inputs, the
ECM regulates various engine and vehicle operations
through different system components. These components
are referred to as ECM Outputs. The sensors
and switches


Look for a big 50 pin connector, that's the ECM.