I'm wondering what is available for editing an ECM and hopefully scanning for codes as well. I have a '97 LT1 and computer going in a street rod and I need to delete the VATS, emissions codes, etc. and I would also like to have something to scan codes as well.

Sending away the ECM for reprogramming would be $250 plus $50 or so if I were to buy a scanner as well. So I'd be willing to spend as much as $2-300 for a software program.

So is there any reasonably priced/easy to use software for editing/deleting codes from the computer and for scanning trouble codes? Thanks

 

For OBD2 (which is what your 97 LT1 PCM would be), the short answer is no. The lowest cost PCM tuning software that I am aware of is JET's Dynamic System Tuner which retails for $499.

Given your stated goals, and the likelihood based on the description of the project that you will not need to meet any emissions standards, you may want to consider running an LT1/OBD1 PCM in your vehicle. You can get the software for tuning it for about $90, and the interface cable to connect between your diagnostic connector and your PC for about $75-100.

An LT1/OBD1 PCM will connect in place of an OBD2 PCM without any modifications. However, you will either need to solder resistors in the PCM or swap the knock sensors out for 1995 or earlier knock sensors. Alternatively you can buy an "OBD1 conversion" PCM kit from MadZ28 or PCMFORLESS.

 

thanks for the information. I already have the OBDII computer and after the initial tune to delete unnecessary codes I don't really plan to do a lot of tuning. Sounds like I'm better off just paying to have my computer programmed for the $250 and be done with it...I was just hoping to be able to do it myself and have the software to edit and scan codes later as well.

I hope I'm able to work through my stock harness otherwise I'm looking at
$1k just for a harness and tune

 

It only costs about $100 plus shipping for basic tuning like that.

Or you can convert to OBD1 and then you can program your own car for less than $150:

• Buy OBD1 computer / sell OBD2 computer = even trade
• Tunercat and cable $100
• Knock sensor ?$30?

 

I know Street & Performance charges $250 and I would probably go there since I will be doing lots of other business with them for other parts needed for the swap. I haven't looked for other prices, but if I can get a tune for $100 somewhere I'll likely do that especially if that's cheaper than tuning an OBDI myself...I'd rather keep my computer anyway...

 

could try LT1edit.... heres the site carputing.com id recommend going to a OBD1 computer just to save money on the program.

 

TunerPro works for OBD1 and it's FREE! http://tunerpro.net/ Works great and the support forums are very nice.

Chad-

 

Looks nice, but where do you get the TDF file for $EE? It sounds like you are supposed to get it off the moates site but it's asking for a username and password.