Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Mystery Switch/ 96' PCM reflash

[biggy238]

As some of you know, the ealry 96 automatics can't run a lockup switch because of the PROM that chrysler used.





I went to My dealer to see if they could get the reflash... It does exist.





The want $104 at 1. 5 hours to do a reflash. :--)







Is there something I don't know about??? They drive it in, plug it up and walk away?



I can't and won't afford that... .



But still... . 1. 5 hours labor for this...



Someone on the inside justify this for me...

 

[Howard Durand]

The dealer here was going to re-flash my 94 for $35. 00 but my PCM is one that can't be flashed.

As to the lockup switch, what happens to prevent manually locking the TC?

 

[Joe G.]

I think the problem with the early '96 is getting it to unlock after manually locking it. There is a part number for the reflash. PM Steve Rehburg (srehburg) for the part number.

 

[biggy238]

The problem is that early in the 96 model year (trucks built in 1995) they used the program for the 95 model year, but with a new (1996) PCM. For some reason, it acts odd and then limps when you add a lockup switch.



It will lock, but It either won't unlock afterward, or it limps the trans. Similar to when an RE loses voltage. No 3rd/4th, no lockup and no power over the speed limit for 2nd gear. (25mph maybe?)





I just can't believe the money they want for the reflash... . I have the reflash part number Thanks to Joe for knowing who to ask. I can find the number again if anyone needs it. Atleast I know they do have the flash.



I'm going to ask a few more dealers... maybe if I mention my displeasure with this dealer, they might try and make a customer of me.

 

[Joe G.]

Kyle,



They could not use the '95 PCM code because the '95 had a 47RH and the '96 had a 47RE transmission which depends on the PCM for shift control.

 

[biggy238]

I don't know... . That's how it was explained to me... the early model had a revised version of an ealier PROM that didn't allow for lockup...





Either way $100 for such a small step.

 

[Ridesamule]

I just went in and told the mechanic I wanted the flash for towing enhancment. And that I was told it should have been done under the dealers warranty policy. I don't know who got charged but it wasn't me.

 

[DanSullivan]

I did my 96 in 97 with a switch from radio shack per the directions in the tdr at the time and has been working perfect ever since. Can lock up in 3ed will shift to 4th with out unlocking , Need to unlock to shift back down. works real well in the mountains is Calif. I can shift to 3ed in advance then just hit the lock unlock switch and keep right on going makes for a real smooth down shift

 

[biggy238]

What month was your truck build in Dan? It says somewhere on the data badge on the door i think.

 

[DanSullivan]

Truck was built in January, don't know that it mattered, never heard of any diff.

 

[biggy238]

Yes... . The trucks built in 1995 as 96' m. y. have a different program.





I think I have a lead...



Thanks for the help guys.

 

[SRehberg]

I had my '96 reflashed by the dealer for $60 and 30min of my time. 15mins of it was the dealer looking for the right stuff! Find another dealer.

 

[biggy238]

I have one that made me an offer I can't refuse.