Hey all...

I've got a '96 1500 4x4 SLT w/ the 318. I've read about getting the upgraded Mopar Performance PCM's... but I've been wondering...

I'm curious if it would be possible to get a newer model year's STOCK PCM and put it in my truck. I'm thinking '98 or newer that has same engine (318) and 4x4 capability. The reason I'd like to do this is that the newer model years have more programmability built into the PCM's... as in you can get a Hypertech or Superchips or similar programmer. The high-end programmers don't offer anything for the 1996 and 1997 OBDII PCM's - from what I've read this is due to the limited functionality at the beginning of OBDII for emissions control.

I'm guessing this is wishful thinking, but I thought I may as well pose the question. I haven't seen a similar suggestion on this or other forums, and from the past several months of reading up on my truck on various forums, I wanted to give all you gurus a wack at this.

I'd like to have the programmer type PCM upgrade due to the... programmabilty This would allow me to tune things down when I need to go through emissions testing, and yet give me the opportunity to tweak for daily performance driving... or towing my boat... all without having to pop the hood (granted, swapping PCM's isn't a grand task).

Any help you all could offer would be much appreciated. I have done quite a bit of searching and haven't found a similar thread. I apologize if I am opening old wounds...

How does everyone feel that the Mopar Performance PCM for my truck would compare to a Hypertech? I guess I'm concerned that because of the limited capability of an early OBDII PCM that the Mopar Performance version won't offer much of a performance increase.

Thanks for your help everyone!

Regards,
Scott

 

NO you cannot use a 98 controller in your 96 truck. It may run, but not well and will set a CEL almost immediately. Just buy a performance PCM for your application.

 

dodgemech,

Thanks for the reply. I kinda figured that might be the case. Are the connections different to the PCM? Do you know why it wouldn't be compatable? Just curious, not doubting you at all!

Thanks for your time and patience,
Scott