I own a 2001 Ram 1500 5.9 V8 RWD.
The check engine light started coming on intermittently (on for a day or two, then go away for the same amount of time, then back on) and the truck was running rough. I pulled the codes using the three-key-turns trick and got P0601 and a cylinder 1 misfire. I replaced the plugs, wires, cap and rotor, and now the truck runs much smoother and the check engine light is gone. However, if I turn the key three times I still get P0601 then "done". I wrote down the part number on the PCM, went to O'Rileys, and bought a reman for $500 but have not installed it yet. It is not programmed to my VIN and Mileage. I read up on other PCM threads here but am still unsure about a few things.

Here's my questions:
1. Do I still need to replace my old PCM? The truck seems to run great, could the issue causing the code be from elsewhere?
2. How can I figure out what caused the old PCM to have a problem in the first place so I can make sure the new one won't go down for the same thing?
3. If I do need to replace the old PCM, is it critical to get the new one programmed ("flashed"?) to my VIN/mileage? Will it work if I don't?
4. Do I need to get it programmed before installing it, or after it is already on the truck?
5. Where should I go to get it programmed? Does it have to be a dealer, or should any shop be able to do it? What is a fair price for that?

I would appreciate any help or advise you might be able to offer!

 

1. Maybe. Does it still give you the CEL every now and again?
2. You can't, really. Its an electronic part. Parts fail. You may never know why.
3. It needs to be flashed to your vin. Susprised the parts store didn't do it..... otherwise, ABS, and Airbags whine. (and don't work.)
4. It's already programmed. Probably death flash...... (read the thread about that in the FAQ section. )
5. Dealer should have a clue...... but, just about any decent independent shop should be able to do it. It should be more than one hour labor... at whatever they rate is. (in reality, I think it takes them less than 10 minutes to do it... .but, minimum shop labor, and all that.....)

I would just disconnect the battery for 10-15 minutes, that will reset all the codes, and drive it. See what happens. If the 601 doesn't come back in a few days, save yourself the 500 bucks, and return the PCM.

 

Thanks for the info!

I have not seen the CEL since the tune up a few days ago. I went out tonight and unplugged the battery for a few minutes. When I plugged it back in the code was gone (still no CEL either). I'll hold on the the new PCM and drive it around for a few days to see if the code stays away. Hopefully it will and O'Riley's wont give me a hard time with the return!
I'll let you know how it goes.

 

I have an 03 Caravan that is also giving me this code, I am interested in the solving of this issue

 

Replace the PCM. I would suspect it will also need to be flashed to the correct vin. Talk to your local parts stores, see what they can do for ya.