pcm problem

[jerrym3]

Re: pcm problem

Can't see why an LS PCM wouldn't work on a TBird.

[bada]

Re: pcm problem

Just a bit more info and please note this was obtained from a 2002 manual. The Bird
uses only the 150 pin PCM (three connector harness). This PCM is also used on the
Lincoln LS, Explorer and Mountaineer. The one connector PCM 104 pin is used on every
other Ford product. Being this PCM is used on four models can it be modified for use
between these models? Could this be done by a simple reprogramming?

This looks like a possible option. I am at work now. But maybe someone could call your local ford dealer and see what they say.

[04birdman]

Re: pcm problem

Can't see why an LS PCM wouldn't work on a TBird.

NOBODY HAS AN ANSWER TO THIS YET? AND IF THEY CAN ARE THESE AVALIBLE......? AT SOME POINT A WORKING PCM WILL BE WORTH MORE THAN THE CAR......AND WE THOUGHT THE COPS PROBLEM TOOK FUN OUT OF THE CAR...................

[bada]

Re: pcm problem

Ok talked to the local dealer> They did not know if the PCMs were interchangable. Said to call FORD
1-800-392-3673
1-800-241-0385

If someone has time and could call that would be great. I am still at work.

[2K2BIRD]

Re: pcm problem

The histeria is getting a little wild around here and I'll be glad to take all of these unreliable & unrepairable T-birds that I can afford off of your hands for say ..... $5000.00 each.

It is a testament to the effectiveness of TBN to represent retrobird owners that we know of 2 or 3 of the 9 units on national backorder since only about 7000 members have registered here over the past 9 years (some of which don't own retrobirds and others who are not the original owners) compared to the 68,098 cars built.

The key numbers here are 9 of 68,098. Evidently, only 0.013% of these cars are out of commission today because of the part being backordered, so 99.987% do not require a new PCM today. I'm not much of a gambler, as those that were at Hot Springs can attest to, but I like those odds and to quote PaulD, I can "live with it". (Sorry Paul, couldn't resist) Lots of people gamble money/other assets every day with way worse odds than that.

I'm cerainly not trying to trivialize this issue at the expense of those with the problem. It is a shame that the unavailable part is necessary for the car to function. It is a bummer for those that need one and if I were one of them, I'd be just as upset as they are. It does seem unusual that such a vital part is not available from Ford, but in reality we do not know how many other vehicles of various makes and models are idle because of similar issues with a vital part. Even though it is not a big problem in the big picture for Ford, I'm willing to bet they are working to make the part available ASAP, because they know a lot of T-bird owners are loyal Ford buyers.

My advise to those with the problem is to be persistent that the dealer supply transportation the entire time while your car is immobile and take it all the way up the Ford food chain if that is not happening.

My advise to those without the problem is relax, because odds are way in our favor that we won't have this problem.

[Ediron]

Re: pcm problem

Here is a reason people get turned off on our cars and receive bad reviews such as CR.The T-Bird was never really pushed by Ford so it has become a forgotten part to Ford.It was a high priced vehicle for the time it was built but lacked a couple of small extra features found in the larger models and there cousin models( swinging sunvisors,self dimming mirror,pushbutton outside door openers,etc.) Now parts are becoming unattainable or slow due to production limits.I guess I was lucky when my PCM went two yrs ago as they had it in less than a week and they gave me a free rental. But I do have to say when people look at the vehicle they all smile .

My original post above and my feelings. I was answered that Ford did push the Bird when it came out and they soon forgot about it IMO.The cars are a low production vehicle so it easy to let it go to the wayside.Ford was busy selling every other model in much bigger numbers.Soon people may have to buy a donor car.When you think about it the Bird's have many parts that cannot be swapped with other Ford models they are exclusive to the T-Bird (poor engineering IMO)

[babybluebird]

Re: pcm problem

So I guess I am in the minority...Transmission replaced, COPS replaced, and PCM problem all in 6 weeks, looks like I struck the motherload!

[2K2BIRD]

Re: pcm problem

So I guess I am in the minority...Transmission replaced, COPS replaced, and PCM problem all in 6 weeks, looks like I struck the motherload!

Yep, Shirlene, your luck has been really bad. Hope it turns around real soon. In fact, I have a feeling it has to!

[babybluebird]

Re: pcm problem

Thanks Paul, you have my back there in Oklahoma.

[HKS]

Re: pcm problem

Martin,

This e-bay seller will program the PCM for you but you stil need the dealer to reprgram you keys. I wonder if the dealer could just program the whole works for the same price? You need to disassemble the cabin air filter under the hood and disasemble the glove compartment area just to get to the module. A half days work. But he price of $195 does not sound bad.

HKS

Would this place be worth a try.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2000-...Q5fAccessories

[007Cruiser]

Re: pcm problem

Paul.....you beat me to it. Great post. I too feel sorry for those with a problem but this is hardly an epidemic. I'm sure that many other models of cars also have parts on backorder. Let's all take a step back from the cliff and catch our breath. This will eventually resolve itself. The disaster in Japan is playing havoc with electronic parts. Some new vehicle production has stopped for lack of electronics. A few faulty vehicles don't make the rest "boat anchors".

[snowbird]

Re: pcm problem

Martin,

This e-bay seller will program the PCM for you but you stil need the dealer to reprgram you keys. I wonder if the dealer could just program the whole works for the same price? You need to disassemble the cabin air filter under the hood and disasemble the glove compartment area just to get to the module. A half days work. But he price of $195 does not sound bad.

HKS

Nothing wrong with the PCM in our '03 (touch wood), but thought it was an interesting listing on ebay for PCM's and would be worth checking into if all else failed through local Ford / Lincoln dealers.

As already mentioned, many electronic parts for most manufacturers that come from Japan will be in very short supply. Assembly lines are down 50% or more at some plants up here in Ontario and troughout the U.S. . This shortage could last months. Electronic rebuilders are going to get very busy in the months ahead. This situation may also bring many jobs back home here in North America. And that is a good thing.
JMHO.

[E'sBird]

Re: pcm problem

Hey all: Lonestar did a great thing with Weapon X on our COPs. Can anyone pinpoint electronics outfits that might be another "Weapon X?" With the expertise of this club we ought to be able to entice a company to at least look at our computer problems. Weapon X is doing a limited edition on our COPs. Perhaps there is an company that would be interested in a "limited edition" if we contacted them. This club represents a lot of owners, that is power. Can we get something started on this? I would be willing to spend some time contacting and soliciting....I just would need some facts about our PCM.

EARL

[MerlotBlue]

Re: pcm problem

How about these folks?

http://www.autocomputersystems.com/?...FUpN4AodZEyzqQ

[5bird7]

Re: pcm problem

Might be better off with a 55-57 Bird ,you can still get parts and they are not as complicated electronically.I wish we were back with points and condensers.

George switched to electronic ignition on our 57 so he doesn't have to keep maintaining points and condenser on a regular basis. Last "pertronix" set up lasted 15 years before it needed replacing.