Hey guys, the people on the 2nd gen board know very little about on-board computers.

I personally know a GREAT deal about the ODB-1 computer found in the mid to late 80s used with the TBI and MPFI / TPI computers... BUT... I know VERY little about the "Command Control" set-up that the 1979 Caddilacs and the 1980-1981 f-bodies used.

Actually... MAYBE even the 82-83 f-bodies used these too.. which is what I'm hoping.


Anyway, here's my question, my 1981 TransAm was originally a Turbo TransAm. It came with TWO computers onboard, the first being the one that controlled the AIR / FUEL ratio. It used the computer controlled rochester quadrajet with an O2 sensor and adjusted the lean / rich ratio, etc.. THIS was.. as you guys know, called the ECM. Now in mid 80s cars and up, EVERYTHING that had anything to do with a computer was controlled by the ECM.

HOWEVER, on 1979 Caddys, and 1980-1981 f-bodies, there was a SEPERATE computer that controlled JUST the ignition timing. THIS was known as the ESC "Electronic Spark Control".

Now, my question is this... since the wiring harness was cut 1" short from the cowl, and I don't have any sensors whatsoever for my 81 TransAm to make it even worth considering hooking up the comuter. Does anyone know if it's possible to JUST use the ESC in my 81 TransAm without having to use the ECM? as far as I can tell, they don't appear to be connected, they're housed in two seperate ECM looking boxes. IF I can use the ESC, by itself.. I'd totally use that rather than use a NON computer controlled distributor.

I originally had a 1982 TransAm, but I don't remember if this car had the same kind of set-up or if the ECM contained the ESC by that time.

Thanks,

Todd,
1997 Pontiac GrandAm SE - TwinCam
1987 Pontiac Fiero SE / V6
1984 Pontiac Fiero 2m4 SE / WS6
1981 Pontiac TransAm (350 V8)

 

My 82 t/a had one ecm for both the carb and the timing.

 

The ESC module in the third gen setups produces an output that indicates the onset of "knock" (detonation or preignition). The output of the ESC module is used by the ECM to retard ignition timing. Attached is a scheatic of a typical third gen ESC setup.

 

Thanks TIM!!!!!!!