Got my Westers PCM ...

JimG · April 5, 2005

Ok, finally got my Westers PCM. Went out after work and installed it - no issue there. Attempt to start truck. Won't start. Engine spins up but won't stay running.

Yes, I read everything that came with my new PCM before I attempted the install. The PCM I received was a GM Service Part - and according to the directions no re-learn was required. So I was surprised the truck didn't start.

Decided that I should attempt the relearn procedure - figured maybe something wasn't quite right. Followed the relearn procedure. After 30 minutes and 3 attempts to start (as per the directions), the truck would not start on the 4th ignition ON. Argh! Not good. Reinstall the old computer - truck fires up like nothing ever happened.

So what's going on? Does the computer not recognize the truck's VIN? Anyone had similar experience and have any suggestions? I know I can call Lyndon but I wanted to see if anyone here had some advice.

Thanks!

highup1500hd · April 5, 2005

When I got mine it did not fire right away on the 4th time. It did the smae thing as the other three. I let it sit there for a few minutes and went to fire it up again and it worked. I was worried about it and just tried one last time before taking it out and sending it back. Lucky it worked I guess. Good luck

JimG · April 5, 2005

Dang - I tried it after the 4th cycle but didn't let it sit a while. I need to try this when I have time and don't have to work by flashlight to fix it.

MrQuadrasteer · April 5, 2005

I think you need to turn it off and pull the key the final time. Same thing happened to a friend....

TarheelZ · April 5, 2005

I'm just guessing at this, but I suspect that your attempts to start the truck before trying the re-learn may have been the problem. Try putting the custom PCM in again and do the re-learn as directed. I didn't have any problems with mine but I did the 'special' steps first and it fired up perfectl. Good luck!

highup1500hd · April 5, 2005

but I suspect that your attempts to start the truck before trying the re-learn may have been the problem

but that is the first step in the relearn process. you are supposed to try and start it and then return the key to the run posisiton when it doesn't. how would that mess it up?

71GMC_3/4T · April 5, 2005

On my PCM for Less PCM, the PassLock light came on.

I misread the directions and ended up re-learning twice...

You MUST try to start it each and every cycle. I was just flipping the key to ON, waiting the time, going to off, waiting, ...

If you try to crank it each time, it should start on the 4th try. Otherwise, it will never work, trust me.

Butch 02 Denali · April 5, 2005

This relearn procedure is directly from GM, it is the same no matter which tuner you use. The dealers must use this procedure when they swap a PCM too. If it does not start on the 4th attempt, then you did not follow the procedure exactly. It must have three cycles in a row, done exactly like explained here for the relearn to work.

The password learn procedure must be performed if passlock sensor, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM) or vehicle control module (VCM) has been replaced. Make sure the battery is fully charged.

Turn ignition from OFF to CRANK, allowing the vehicle to try and start. The vehicle will start and stall. Leave the ignition on and observe the "Security" indicator on the instrument panel. When the security indicator turns off (10 minutes), turn the ignition key off and wait 10 seconds. Repeat the procedure 2 more times.(3 total) The new "password" is learned on the next start attempt.

Perform this procedure EXACTLY, and it will start right up.

JimG · April 5, 2005

When the security indicator turns off (10 minutes), turn the ignition key off and wait 10 seconds

Wonder if that's what I screwed up? Going to find out as soon as dinner's done. I followed the procedure Westers gave me but I don't remember seeing that "wait 10 seconds" part.

Let you all know around 8:30 if this works.

71GMC_3/4T · April 6, 2005

10 seconds? Mine said one minute, I think. It also said you could go longer, but not any less.

I didn't notice the light going off, I did mine with a stopwatch and added 15 seconds to each time segment.

JimG · April 6, 2005

Alright - well, I went out there, remove the old, put in the new and reconnected the battery cables (yes I disconnected them when I originally did this).

Turned the key and the darn thing turned over and ran just fine .

I don't understand it in the least. Even had the watch ready - was counting down the last 5 seconds and everything. No relearn at all, cranked right over.

Took it for a 5 mile drive, filled up with fresh gas, no problems at all.

This thing is AWESOME! Definitely can feel the difference with TM removed. So much nicer. Idle sounds better too. Can't wait to see the fuel economy increase (assuming I lay off the heavy right foot).

Jasonsupafly · April 6, 2005

JimG ..How much did their tune run for your truck ?

JimG · April 6, 2005

Believe the regular price is $529+S&H

I got it for $476 and free shipping because of a group purchase organized by Tbyrne.

Well worth it - Torque Management is almost completely removed (left that last little bit for the safety factor). The truck is more responsive, the clunk effect in the trans is gone and I hope to see my MPGs increase over time.

carl722 · April 7, 2005

I had mine done by Fastchips. I drove to there place. When they put it in it started up first bump of the ignition. It has run great since. They didn't say anything about a relearn process. If you are having problems give Wester's a call and ask what do you have to do.