1996 Dodge Ram 5.9L ECM Issue

So I got this real big issue of my truck not running and I dont have mch knowledge on these computer issues. I bought a ECM of the same numbers as the original ECM in my truck (P56040975), but the truck still doesn't run.. But it runs with a ECM from a 1997 truck with same engine (but with the ECM from the 97 it misfires like crazy at 3000 rpm and bogs and misfiring while tryin to drive and runs rich) soo why doesn't the ECM with the matching numbers still not run my truck? Does it need to be flashed?

Has the new ECM been programmed? And programmed correctly? I've had bad experiences with my ECM. I've ordered refurbished ones off the Internet from two different companies and neither worked when i installed them. I got the "no bus" error message. I've had to return them with restocking fees. So be careful online.

You can buy a new one from the dealership and they'll program it correctly, but it'll probably cost a grand.

Try junk yards too for your same year and model. I've given up. I'm thankful I don't live in an emissions state.

I think you need to take it to the dealership and get it flashed to your truck.

What does "flashing " even do? Is it something I could do with a scanner?

DRB3 scanner with Ma Mopars software or the SCT tuner with a program/tune for the 96 5.9. 96 is an odd year for the pcm be careful what you try.

Why are you replacing the PCM?

Eagleye134 said:

What does "flashing " even do? Is it something I could do with a scanner?

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Syncs everything properly, something only the dealer tech seems to have. As far as I understand at any rate, someone correct me if Im wrong...

Johnn123 said:

Syncs everything properly, something only the dealer tech seems to have. As far as I understand at any rate, someone correct me if Im wrong...

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Any good independent shop is capable of reflashes.

Im replacing the ECM cause the OEM one and the 96 ECM I bought (w/ matching numbers) both show a #32 fault code (EGR solenoid open but I dont think that wouldnt cause the truck to not run) but both wont run the truck . The only ECM I have that runs the truck is one from a 97 (but it runs like **** and barely drives) The 97 ECM pulls up the same #32 fault code. How much does a flash cost at an independent shop?

We charge 1 hr for single module flashes. $90

Eagleye134 said:

Im replacing the ECM cause the OEM one and the 96 ECM I bought (w/ matching numbers) both show a #32 fault code (EGR solenoid open but I dont think that wouldnt cause the truck to not run) but both wont run the truck . The only ECM I have that runs the truck is one from a 97 (but it runs like **** and barely drives) The 97 ECM pulls up the same #32 fault code. How much does a flash cost at an independent shop?

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Does your truck even have an EGR valve? My '95 has one but I thought those went away on the ODBII trucks.

From what I know it doesnt, I even looked and I dont see anything on my engine but that code isnt turning on my CEL and none of the ECMs are turning on the CEL cause they all have the #32 fault code, so I am back to thinking the 96 ECM I just bought needs to be flashed.

96 br 5.9l a4 pcm

04886735
04886786
04886851
05014152aa
56040780
56040821
56040892
56040931
56040975
04886919

97 br 5.9l a4 pcm

05014152aa
05278334aa
56040440aa
56040440ab
56040440ac
56040440ad
05278334ab

The OEM ECM original numbers were 56040892, but the OEM ECM got flashed in 1996 (according to sticker on front) to the number 56040975 ( I just bought the same ECM w/ those matching numbers 56040975 ). The 97 ECM is 56040440AA. I've already checked fuel and spark on the truck (fuel pump isnt even a month old, injectors are all good and sparked tested the coil/plugs) Does anyone else agree that flashing the 96 ECM I just bought will fix the issue?

C/P

NOTE: Whenever a PCM is replaced due to failure, the software of the replacement controller should be verified for the latest revision level. Use the flash procedure to updated replaced controllers as necessary.

Repair:

This Procedure involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software.

NOTE: The MDS and DRB III are required to perform this repair and the system must be operating with release 21 or higher AND TIL CD RELEASE 1165 or higher must be installed. The DRB III must be operating at release 25.5 or higher.

1. Connect the MDS (Mopar Diagnostic System) and DRB III (Scan Tool) to the vehicle and power them up.

2. there was no 2 in this set of instructions!

3. Use the arrow keys and select #2 MDS DIAGNOSTICS on the DRB III MAIN MENU Screen.

4.Use the arrow keys and select DIAGNOSTIC MENU on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.

5. Use the arrow keys and select VEHICLE CONTROLLER PROGRAMMING on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.

6.Use the arrow keys and select PROGRAMMING OF ALL OTHER CONTROLLERS USING MI)S & DRBIII on the MDS, then press NEXT MENU.

7. Follow the steps presented on the MDS and DRB III which will allow the DRB III to obtain the current part number of the PCM.

8. The MDS will display the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and the appropriate replacement part number, then press NEXT MENU to begin programming.

If the PCM on the vehicle has already been updated or programmed, a NO UPDATES AVAILABLE message will be displayed. Check the part number of the PCM on the vehicle and compare it to the part number displayed. If the PCM has already been updated, then another condition exists that will require further diagnosis and repair.

9. The MDS and DRB lllo will prompt for any operator action needed during the remainder of the programming process.

sooo... what your saying from is that I should have bought a ECM with the original numbers (56040892) from my OEM one? or I need to flash the 96 ECM I just bought cause my OEM one cant be upgraded again?

You need to have the exact number PCM. They are all different internally depending on your trucks options, 4wal rwal auto man cruise etc... The OEM PCM can be upgraded if it does not have the most current version of software but if there is a hardware fault inside the PCM it will not fix it. What I recommend is installing a NEW Mopar PCM and flashing to most current software. And start there. Will it fix it? Don't know but its impossible to accurately diagnose a driveability problem with the incorrect hardware/software.

These are the TSB's that go with those pcm's, some of them call for a full re-program of the pcm, that is what that sticker on your truck is for. Most pcm's can be wiped and reprogrammed, it can have the latest revision on it and all you do is wipe and reinstall.

18-03-96
18-03-97
18-08-00
18-24-98
21-04-00
24-03-96
25-003-01

I have used a 5.2 pcm on a 5.9 and vice versa and they will run without flashing most times, not right but run. I stick to part numbers and years when replacing a pcm. As I have posted 96 is a year all on its own.

I am not to sure I want to say get them flashed and not have it work for you The truck will have to go into the shop or try to get a service call done.

What happened to the org pcm that's making you change it out? It just stopped running or ?? Me being me I would be doing a comp test and checking the timing alignment marks make sure they are where they should be. Have you for any reason moved the dizzy IE turned it to try and set the timing? CKPS is high on my suspicion list here, next would be cam trigger in the dizzy.

Edit: I would replace the CKPS before I have those pcms flashed, no they will not set a code.

rowdyram said:

You need to have the exact number PCM. They are all different internally depending on your trucks options, 4wal rwal auto man cruise etc... The OEM PCM can be upgraded if it does not have the most current version of software but if there is a hardware fault inside the PCM it will not fix it. What I recommend is installing a NEW Mopar PCM and flashing to most current software. And start there. Will it fix it? Don't know but its impossible to accurately diagnose a driveability problem with the incorrect hardware/software.

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+1 to this post spot on

Something I may have missed.. If the PCM you have is setting a code for a system that your truck isn't equipt with its likely someone put a used PCM in it and is probably incorrect.... So do not order a PCM by that number. Call dealer give them your Vin. They will ask for your PCM p/n tell them you don't have one and make them look it up.