I have to replace an ECU on a 2003 model 3500 Ram Diesel. Can this only be done using the DRB(2) diagnostic or is there a cheat way?

I am in the middle of the Sahara desert and its taken three weeks to get the dam thing...

A quick response would be appreciated

Mike

 

Has it been programmed to the VIN and engine serial number?

If not, you may be out of luck.

If it has, then you may be able to just swap it out.

Worst that will happen is you might get a no start condition, but it's not gonna hurt the ECM.

 

Thaks for the quick reply.

No I don't believe it was programmed before it was shipped from Dodge. When its plugged in you don't even get the EML coming on....

Can it be programmed by Dodge prior to being shipped?

 

Do you get anything at all when you turn it on.

Will it even crank over?

 

No I get nothing at all, it won't crank either. My parts supplier says it needs to be programmed in to the vehicle, so it looks like I will need to send it back. I was wondering if there was a way round it, to code it in with out using the DRB(2) but it looks like thats not possible.

Oh well never mind.

Thanks for your replies Coal Train, much apprciated this end.

 

Yeah, unfortunately, they are pretty protective of the ECM's. The fact that they even sent you one is surprising. It usually takes an act of god to get one sent to a dealership.

 

If it does not have the firm ware pre programmed in it, you will have to see a dealer.I do not know of a way aroind it...