Diff between 98 and 99+ ECM and change over
Diff between 98 and 99+ ECM and change over There was a discussion in hybrids about ECMs and changes. What are the difference between a 98 LS1 computer and the 99 and up. I'm doing a conversion with a 6 speed manual. Is there a benefit of swapping? What else would I need to do besides buying the 99+ ECM and buying a 99+ harness? Thanks in advance.
The main advantages of updating to a '99+ PCM is the tuning products available (enhancements). Beyond that, there really is no benefit, the '98 computer can be tuned just like the newer PCMs. For a conversion (depending on how wild you go), you would be fine using a '98 PCM. And to answer your question, yes you would need the corresponding harness, and some engine sensors (mainly the ECT).
98 computers and harnesses are cheaper on average...I wouldn't shy away from buying one if you get a good deal. They are just as tuneable as 99+ but like 12sec said, 98's usually get the new tuning goodies last.
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It is not that easy, the sensor work differently on '98s vs. '99+. I know for a fact that the gauge cluster will not work with a repining, our gauge cluster is pretty useless now that I did the conversion. The only difference from '98 to an '02 OS is the lacking secondary VE table, some enrichment tables and other minor things (which as Keith reminded me, with a 2-BAR OS, you no longer have to worry about this). You can still tune a 1998 to run with the 2002 model, it is just easier tuning wise with a newer OS. But definately not worth the expense of the swap.
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In my 98 to 02 upgrade project I had to repin the pcm, and the Instrument Cluster (IC). I didn't have to change the ECT sensor. I did change out the knock sensors as the calibration values are different btw 98 and up. I did have to change the fuel sending unit and migrate to a newer gage cluster. There are a couple of other small wire re routes but all in all it wasn't that bad. Now I can run a Custom Operating System on my Road Runner. Well worth the effort if you ask me.
