11/02 3gen Front Control Module or IPM

[S.Morris]

Having to replace the Integrated Power Module on a recently purchased 2003 3500 service truck.



It has been suggested by a reputable shop that specializes in electrical trouble shooting(they are not doing job, just offering advice) that in the vast majority of cases you are better off replacing the complete IPM (fuse panel) which includes the FCM as a packaged unit. They say that if there is an issue with the IPM itself it will take out the FCM if it is just replaced separately.



Anyone have direct experience in this area?



At my local dodge dealer, garage cost is 2022. 00 for IPM complete or 317. 00 for just the FCM. ( I bought an IPM about 4yrs ago for my 04 and it was 1000. 00 complete then!!) Canadian prices here.



Second question: I believe these are now plug and play without need for starscan reflash??? can anyone confirm.



There is a LOT of corrosion on the 2003 IPM externally.



Seems to me that a lot of manufacturers are keeping costs down on new vehicles by cranking up parts prices behind the scenes. JMHO from buying various parts lately!!

 

[Andres]

It's got around 5 connectors on the bottom that disconnect. The FCM screws onto the side. I bought a wrecked '03 and moved the electronics and harness over to an H1. Moving the IPM and relocating it was easy.



That said, they supposedly corrode internally (the IPM), I don't know if the connectors on yours are fine. If it were me, I'd disconnect the batteries and spend 20 minutes and see if you want to do it - how easy it is to access.



That's a lot of money, if it were me and I had time, I'd look for one from a salvage yard from Texas for about $200. If you don't have the time, I guess you gotta do it although if the harness is a problem, well it's more then the IPM - hence I'd pull it and look at it.



EDIT:

Gad, here's a new '10, '11 6. 7 box for $69

2010-2011 Dodge Ram 2500 6. 7 fuse box | eBay



Yeah, not your year but someone should buy it.

 

[TCDiesel]

That information is TOTALLY incorrect ,All 03s have PDC (Power Dist Centers) although it has been known to fail its cost are $400/$500 complete the FMC (Front control modules) mounts to it cost $125/$175.

 

[S.Morris]

This info was given to me from dealer parts line after I gave him the truck serial number... ... .



I did not order, and will look into this further... ... ... sounds like the guy made a mistake????



Thanks

 

[S.Morris]

Tried this again after telling parts guy he must have made a mistake because pricing is way out of line



IPM 528. 00 and FCM 317. 00 . will be in on Tues.



Much better... ... .



Does anyone know if this must be flashed at dealer or if it is plug and play?

Parts guy didnt know and seems to be lots of conflicting info regarding this.



Apparently there have been several factory updates to these parts