Re: 92 3.8L Taurus ECM

Is it difficult to change the ECM on this car and can it be done by someone

> with modest mechanical skills and tools? > > If so, where exactly is the module and what precautions should I take before > making the replacement? > > All help is greatly appreciated.... > > Regards > > Symptoms: > > The car hesitates and accelerates horribly when the engine gets good and > warm; like when driving in city traffic. The condition may persist for > several minutes and then power may return to normal. This balky power curve > coincides with a SLIGHT rise in coolant temperature and disappears with a > proportionate coolant temperature decrease. Right now I believe the > temperature fluctuation is a symptom of the problem and not the cause. > > I've had the engine recently rebuilt, and later vac'd at a reputable garage > where they ran a diagnostic and replaced the O2 sensors. Still this problem > persists. I've been told by more than one person that they had the same > trouble and the ECM was the culprit. I'm willing to try a change-out if I > can do the work myself.

The computer is behind the glove box. But i will bet its not the problem. If your engine was in and out, something probably got disturbed. Change your ECT sensor. Note: this does NOT run the dash gauge.

Don't know you did your rebuild, but the heads are particular about a good finish for a good seal. Did a reputable machine shop check the heads for straightness, cracks and decking finish? DId you pull the plugs and check for a difference in color between the cylinders? The headgasket monster may be back. Sniff you exhaust when its hot and this is happening. Does it smell sweet? Any white vapor? If it does, you have found your problem.

BOB

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BOB URZ
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BOB URZ"

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Curtis Bur¢h

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BOB URZ

I would add to check your fuel pressure, and learn to check your codes yourself, its a DIY item, here is a useful link:

Reply to
The Bathtub Admiral

Thanks very much for this link. I can see that the ECT has a two digit code (21 & 61) I can test for. Although the sensor is only $15, I'd rather test it before replacement.

I did change the fuel filter but haven't tested the pump for pressure.

In addendum, it is a little difficult for me to produce the power problem at will that my daughter has always complained about. I'm sure this is why the garage did not find and fix the problem. They did tell me there were several transmission codes but felt they were ultimately there because of the sporadic engine performance problem I described.

Kind regards

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Curtis Bur¢h

BOB URZ"

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Curtis Bur¢h

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The Bathtub Admiral

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