I keep reading on how to do a 350 swap, and i was looking over the things i need to replace. I am going from 305 TPI to 350 TPI. what needs to be done. what is a PCM, ECM, Chip, Computer, how do they all differ...and which one will need to be replaced for the swap? i am just getting into the computer stuff as i had a carburated car before. thanks

 

There shuold be a sticky for this...might be on the engine swap forum, not sure....but what you're doing is fairly straight forward.

For starters, you're ECM will be okay, if your running the 700R4, just get the memcal set (EPROM) for an L98...same year as your car and knocksensor for the L98 (same year as your car). You'll be best to start with larger injectors, your 305 has 19lb/hr, the 350's came with 22's, you may get by with running the originals on a stock 350, and increasing fuel pressure (AFPR is needed) to keep a/f good at WOT.

FWIW PCM is used in the later '93-up cars, ours use ECM...computer is generic for both, "chip", PROM, EPROM, all amount to the same thing....it has the information to cnomtorl various emission devices as well as fuel/spark control, to keep the engine running properly.


For DIY tuning, check out the PROM Forum, or look above in the TPI forum for starters

 

So ECM, PROM, Chip, PCM are all the same thing? and if i build a motor with a different cam and heads, would i have to get a special ordered computer? if so, how much would that cost and where should i go? also, do you know if it is possible to tune your computer yourself and what equipment you need to do it. thanks mike

 

ECM and PCM are the same thing...Engine Control Module and Powertrain Control Module. It's the computer itself. Terminology changed as the role of the computer grew beyond managing the engine, and into the transmission as well.

PROM and chip are the same thing...Programmable Read-Only Memory. It stores the software and configurable settings which the ECM/PCM uses to operate the engine.

You'll want to read the stickies in the DIY-PROM section here and see if software tuning is something you want to get into...highly recommend you do.

 

well, i am very computer literate, and i think i could do it...is it expensive to get into? i dont really know how to solder either, i have only soldered a few times. is it easier than it looks? can you kind of give me some personal stand points on how hard you think it would be for me to do? i am awesome on computers, suck at soldering. think it is worth it?

 

My opinion thus far is that it will be hard for you.

 

I think, it takes a while to grasp the overal understanding of how to approach engine management with a computer. Even simple things like timing tables on EFI is really just a different world that vac/mech dizzy..

Read the stickies, read the intros. Thats about the best advice anyone can give until you really dive into it and formulate some technical questions.

-- Joe

 

i downloaded the program and took out my computer...it all looks easy to set up to program and erase...but the technical side of it looks like a bit**...I looked at TunerCat Pro and TunerPro RT or whatever...I think it is doable...but most people wont want to share their tips and tricks...so i am out. thanks for all of the info...haha, i appreciate it.

 

Don't give up just yet. Most of the members get tired of answering the same question time and time again. The stickies are the best place to start, and a search will work good to. Read the top four stickies in the DIY-PROM forum.

I will share my information, but be prepared to do ALOT of reading. If you are not willing to do that, then don't try it.

Read my "Tuning" Page and all the links. Start first with this article called "Chips Know it All" by Shawn West. Read it for as many times as it takes to understand each and every term. My page details all the equipment and software needed to read, change and burn your own flash chips; and where to get it (including cost).

Start with the L98 MEMCAL like mentioned earlier and get a set of 22# or 24# injectors. Soldering will not be needed.

Remember, "Luck is the result of good planning". Plan well and best of luck, Ed.