Casper The Friendly Ghost On My Windshield

[Key2871]

You know, with all these things having connectors to make a complete circuit to what they need to. It's no wonder there's problems. All it takes is a small spot of corrosion to kill a circuit in these cars.
I had a mini van, popular style, had issues come up with things come to find out it was water made its way into a connection, and threw everything off.

[19and41]

This one has quite a few connectors. the ones I'v e had apart were quite clean and dry inside.  They even had gold plated pins.

[Key2871]

Yes quite a few.. And yes as they should be, because they would be sealed from moisture if they are in good condition.
But I've been watching car programs and the newer cars have a staggering amount of connectors, compared to what the older cars did.
Well good luck.

[19and41]

Well, it's finally boiled down to the engine control module.  The shop found out as I already knew, that they are none available at most of the auto parts outlets in the US.  I've ordered one from a remanufacturer.  It was fun trying to find one on Ebay.  They were listing the relay interface as the microprocessor controller and a number of places was selling used units pulled from wrecked cars.  I didn't want to get a used one and contend with 25 year old electrolytic capacitors in them.

[HarrySmith]

Yes, the new cars have an enormous amount of connections. They have cut down on the number of wires & connectors by using a CAN - BUS system. I gave up working on cars long ago and I am glad I did. This new system somehow uses the same wiring to send several different signals. I guess the computers figure out where it goes. The air bag system is required to have gold connectors and yellow wires.

[19and41]

I guess I'm fortunate in that my work with microprocessor controlled 2 way radios gives me some understanding how this system works.  I can do a little bit on the ECM, but mostly with it's peripherals.

[Jim Stettler]

. This new system somehow uses the same wiring to send several different signals. I guess the computers figure out where it goes.

Could be done with frequency, a type of power-line carrier, sorta like the old X10 home automation.
Just a guess.
Jim

[countryman]

CAN-Bus used in automobiles and machines is a serial bus, just like a USB connection on a computer. The units hooked to the bus exchange data with adresses.
When you put on the light, the light switch does not just close a circuit. It sends a data telegram which is adressed to the light controller unit. There a relay is closed to make the actual 12V DC circuit when the information is received.
(That's just a stupid example).

[19and41]

Ordered and got the new ECM, and when the shop installed it they found it would idle fine but will not fire correctly trying to drive it.now the module is going back cross country to it's supplier for a warranty return.

[19and41]

The seller got the warranty return but at $36 per trip, the seller just made a refund as opposed to an exchange.  I found a auto parts chain store has them in stock now and for $40 less than the returned one was.  It is supposed to get here tonight for them to install next week.  Somehow, I suspect this one "won't work" too.  If it doesn't, I'm towing the car home and holding a continuity and resistance bee on the engine management harness.

[19and41]

Wonder of wonders, it appears this module was indeed good and functional.  I pick up the car tomorrow.

[19and41]

It drove for a day or two, then the electrical problem cropped back up.  I've had it.  I'll let someone else continue the search.  I have made the deposit on a much newer Ford Explorer Limited.  That's sporty enough for me.  Especially if it behaves.

[19and41]

I'm making arrangements to donate the car to Georgia Public Broadcasting.  They are to contact me in the next few days to pick it up.

[Bob S]

Found On Road Dead
F         O   R     D

[Doug Rose]

Fix Or Repair Daily.  Great high school humor.

Yes..I had a Camaro..Doug