Installed MOPAR PCM and all I can say is WOW!!

[FastGuy68]

Finally got some time to get the new MOPAR PCM installed and now I wish I had done it months ago!! Holy crap does it make a difference! Throttle response is like night and day and it just seems to pull a lot harder now in the mid-range. I'm taking it to the 1/8 mile grudge night drags tonight at the Iowa Speedway and hopefully I'll be able to spank my next door neighbor in his new Z06!! Luckily they sell Sunoco 100 unleaded at the track so I'm showing up with an empty tank to take full advantage of my new PCM. Thanks to Mark J. @ WOODHOUSE for sending the updated install instructions!! God I love this car...........actually makes my 06 feel slow now!

 

[woosch]

Updated install instructions?? Please share! I haven't installed mine yet...

 

[FastGuy68]

Updated install instructions?? Please share! I haven't installed mine yet...

Get ahold of Mark J. @ Woodhouse and he can send you a more streamlined set of installation instructions for your tech. Just helps make sure they don't miss any important steps that could cause driveability problems.

 

[woosch]

Cool, Thanks!

 

[mjorgensen Woodhouse]

Here ya go...


INSTALLATION SHEET
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE KIT (Racing Application)
GEN IV 8.4L VIPER SRT-10
PART NUMBER P5155254
K6857171 03/20/09 Page 1 of 4
© 2008, Chrysler LLC. Mopar is a registered trademarks of Chrysler LLC. All rights reserved.
Powertrain Control Module Kit Features:
•Revised fuel, spark and cam position tables that maximize
power increases associated with racing intake and/or exhaust
systems. Requires min 93 octane fuel.
•Rev limit increased to 6500 rpm with decreasing hysteresis.
•Allows racing approved final drive ratios from 3.07:1 to 4.10:1.
•First to fourth gear skip shift eliminated for racing use.
•Includes all 2009 production updates.
•Not intended to work with superchargers, turbochargers,
nitrous or power levels above 700 hp.
Powertrain Control Module Kit Components:
•P5155255 Performance Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
•K6857171 Installation Sheet
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This device is not legal for use on pollution-controlled
vehicles certified for use on streets or highways. Once
this device is installed, use of the vehicle on a street or
highway is a violation of the Clean Air Act, potentially
subjecting the operator and the installer to civil penalties
of up to $32,500 per vehicle depending on the
circumstances.
MOPAR Recommends professional installation by an ASE
certified technician. Specialized removal and installation tools
may be required including use of an appropriate Scan tool to
set up the Powertrain Control Module.
SPECIAL NOTE:
Instability During Adaptive Learn
Once the controller is installed the vehicle must be driven
under a variety of speed/load conditions including idle for 20 to
30 miles to allow the controller to learn the specific engine and
vehicle. Some instability may be noted during this period.
Once the controller has adequately learned the full range of
engine and vehicle operation this instability should cease to
occur.
SPECIAL NOTE:
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Relearn
Procedure
This vehicle is equipped with an Electronic Throttle Control
(ETC) system and requires the ETC RELEARN procedure to
be performed when your new MOPAR PCM is installed. This
procedure checks the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensors
(APPS) to make sure that idle and full pedal travel can be
reached on both sensors. This procedure requires the use
of the appropriate Scan tool. Failure to perform the ETC
RELEARN will cause the throttle not to respond to the
accelerator pedal limiting engine output. It will also set the
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and activate the Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL).
SPECIAL NOTE:
VIN and Odometer Reset
The vehicle’s mileage and vehicle identification number (VIN)
must be updated when the powertrain control module is
replaced. This procedure requires the use of the
appropriate Scan tool. If this step is not done a Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) may be set.
SPECIAL NOTE:
Misfire Adaptive Numerator Value Reset
The Misfire Adaptive Numerator will need to be cleared and
learned when the powertrain control module is replaced. This
procedure requires the use of the appropriate Scan
tool. Failure to follow this procedure may cause misfire
diagnostic codes to be set.
INSTALLATION SHEET
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE KIT (Racing Application)
GEN IV 8.4L VIPER SRT-10
PART NUMBER P5155254
K6857171 03/20/09 Page 2 of 4
© 2008, Chrysler LLC. Mopar is a registered trademarks of Chrysler LLC. All rights reserved.
REMOVAL
It is recommended that you bring your Viper to the nearest
Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep® dealer or an auto shop of your
preference equipped with an appropriate Scan Tool to perform
the installation of the Powertrain Control Module. The vehicle
will not function properly until the necessary items have been
updated in the new module. It is also recommended that you
arrange for another means of transporting the modified vehicle
from the dealer or auto shop, because once the Control
Module is installed, the vehicle is no longer certified for use on
a street or highway.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is located under the
hood on the left side of the engine compartment. (Fig. 1).
Figure 1
To avoid possible voltage spike damage to the PCM, ignition
key must be off, and negative battery cable must be
disconnected before unplugging PCM connectors.
1. Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable at battery
(Fig. 2).
Figure 2
2. Remove mounting bolts (4), cover (3) and PCM (2) from left
side inner fender support (1). Fig 3.
3. Disconnect electrical connectors (5) from PCM (2).
Fig. 3.
Figure 3
INSTALLATION SHEET
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE KIT (Racing Application)
GEN IV 8.4L VIPER SRT-10
PART NUMBER P5155254
K6857171 03/20/09 Page 3 of 4
© 2008, Chrysler LLC. Mopar is a registered trademarks of Chrysler LLC. All rights reserved.
BUILD SEQUENCE
1. Install electrical connectors (5) to PCM (2). Fig 3.
2. Install the MOPAR 8.4L Powertrain Control Module upgrade
(2) to left side inner fender support (1). Fig 3.
3. Install cover (3) and mounting bolts (4). Tighten bolts to 7
N·m (62 in. lbs.). Fig 3.
4. Connect negative battery cable. Tighten to 10 N·m (90 in.
lbs.).
5. After the Powertrain Control Module installation, perform
the following operations using the appropriate Scan Tool:
5.1. Update Powertrain Control Module VIN (see service
manual).
5.2. Update Powertrain Control Module Odometer (see
service manual).
5.3. Execute the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
RELEARN procedure (see service manual).
5.4. Reset Tooth Error Correction (TEC) and Misfire
Adaptive Numerator Value.
-Fuel level must be over ¼ tank.
-Select ‘ECU View’
-Select ‘PCM’
-Select ‘Misc. Functions’
-Select ‘Reset Memory’ and press ‘Start’. A pop up
menu will prompt the user to press ‘Next’ to continue
with a Memory Reset. Options are ‘Next ‘ and
‘Cancel’, press ‘Next’ and the scroll down menu will
appear.
-Select ‘Misfire Adaptive Numerator Value’ and press
‘Next’. A pop up screen will appear stating that the
values have been reset. Press ‘Finish’ to exit or ‘Next’
to return to the memory reset selection.
-Perform the Misfire TEC Learn procedure by starting
the engine and allowing car to reach operating
temperature. Keep engine below 2400 rpm or the
learn will be attempted prematurely.
-Back out of the Memory Reset Menu and select ‘More
Options’.
-Select ‘System Tests’.
-Scroll down and select ‘Learn Adaptive Numerator
Status’. Choose ‘Start’.
-Proceed to display which shows Numerator values
and a ‘Learned’ or ‘Not Learned’ status, display will
update once learning has occurred.
5.5. Use a Scan Tool to erase all DTCs from the vehicle.
5.6. Complete "Numerator Learned" Procedure
-In a safe off road area accelerate to 50 mph in 2nd
gear. Then completely remove foot from accelerator
(leave car in gear – foot off clutch) and allow vehicle to
decelerate to 20 mph.
-Once a series of decelerations has been completed,
check numerator values to be set to values other than
10000, and StarScan will be indicating ‘Numerator
learned’.
-Cycle ignition key off for at least 10 seconds to allow
module to store values.
-Finalize procedure by using StarScan to clear any
PCM codes set during procedure.
5.7. Idle Adaptive Learn Procedure
-Idle car with a warm engine for two to three minutes
with the A/C on.
-Idle car with a warm engine for two to three minutes
with the A/C off.
6. Keep your original Powertrain Control Module.
NOTES:
a) Failure to perform VIN update may result in improper
window drop operation as the VIN defines whether the car is a
coupe or a convertible.
b) Failure to perform the ETC RELEARN procedure will
prevent the throttle from responding to accelerator pedal
inputs. The engine will run at idle speed only. It will also
set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and activate the
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
c) The above operations are required only once when a
new Powertrain Control Module is installed. If issues arise
after completing a specific operation try repeating the
procedure.
For technical assistance regarding this product, please
contact the Mopar Performance Tech Line Monday-
Friday, 7:00am - 3:00pm EST at 1(888) 528-HEMI or
1(888) 528-4364.
INSTALLATION SHEET
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE KIT (Racing Application)
GEN IV 8.4L VIPER SRT-10
PART NUMBER P5155254
K6857171 03/20/09 Page 4 of 4
© 2008, Chrysler LLC. Mopar is a registered trademarks of Chrysler LLC. All rights reserved.
NO PARTS WARRANTY – "AS IS"
Mopar Performance parts beginning with a "P" prefix are sold
"as is" unless otherwise noted. This means that parts sold by
Mopar Performance carry no warranty whatsoever. Implied
warranties, such as warranties of merchantability, are
excluded. (An implied warranty of merchantability means that
the part is reasonably fit for the general purpose for which it
was sold). The entire risk as to quality and performance of
such parts is with the buyer. Should such parts prove
defective following their purchase, the buyer and not the
manufacturer, distributor or retailer, assumes the entire cost of
all necessary servicing or repair. Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep®
vehicle and parts warranties are voided if the vehicle or parts
are used for competition. The addition of performance parts
does not by itself void a vehicle’s warranty. However, added
performance parts (parts not originally supplied on the vehicle
from the factory) are not covered by the vehicle’s warranty,
and any failure that they may cause is also not covered by the
vehicle’s warranty.
Mark Jorgensen
Woodhouse Viper/SRT/Corvette
Performance Service Mgr.
800-889-1893
402-677-2935 cell

 

[Viperless]

SPECIAL NOTE:
VIN and Odometer Reset
The vehicle’s mileage and vehicle identification number (VIN)
must be updated when the powertrain control module is
replaced. This procedure requires the use of the
appropriate Scan tool. If this step is not done a Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) may be set.

SPECIAL NOTE:
Misfire Adaptive Numerator Value Reset
The Misfire Adaptive Numerator will need to be cleared and
learned when the powertrain control module is replaced. This
procedure requires the use of the appropriate Scan
tool. Failure to follow this procedure may cause misfire
diagnostic codes to be set.

It was mentioned in another thread that once the racing PCM has been installed and set up, you can swap between the stock PCM and the racing PCM at will with no further programming required. Given the special notes listed above, this doesn't seem possible to me. Especially the note about the mileage since that's a constantly changing parameter. I realize that is says a DTC MAY be set, not WILL be set. Any definitive answer to this?

 

[mjorgensen Woodhouse]

It was mentioned in another thread that once the racing PCM has been installed and set up, you can swap between the stock PCM and the racing PCM at will with no further programming required. Given the special notes listed above, this doesn't seem possible to me. Especially the note about the mileage since that's a constantly changing parameter. I realize that is says a DTC MAY be set, not WILL be set. Any definitive answer to this?

They can be swapped at any time after the initial install is completed.

 

[Viperless]

They can be swapped at any time after the initial install is completed.

Okay. Thanks!

 

[adamlotus]

you should have no problems spanking your neigbors z06 and the stock 08 made my 06 feel slow,the 08 is a beast

 

[Hamrhead]

Finally got some time to get the new MOPAR PCM installed and now I wish I had done it months ago!! Holy crap does it make a difference! Throttle response is like night and day and it just seems to pull a lot harder now in the mid-range. I'm taking it to the 1/8 mile grudge night drags tonight at the Iowa Speedway and hopefully I'll be able to spank my next door neighbor in his new Z06!! Luckily they sell Sunoco 100 unleaded at the track so I'm showing up with an empty tank to take full advantage of my new PCM. Thanks to Mark J. @ WOODHOUSE for sending the updated install instructions!! God I love this car...........actually makes my 06 feel slow now!

From one Mike to another - This is all your fault!

I couldn't take hearing about this anymore, so I just called Mark and ordered one.

 

[woosch]

Thanks Mark!

 

[FastGuy68]

From one Mike to another - This is all your fault!

I couldn't take hearing about this anymore, so I just called Mark and ordered one.

Trust me....you won't regret the purchase!! Throttle response is SOOOO MUCH BETTER!!!

 

[Viperless]

Trust me....you won't regret the purchase!! Throttle response is SOOOO MUCH BETTER!!!

You have a '08?

 

[Herc]

They can be swapped at any time after the initial install is completed.

Will the PCM work with 91 octane? Also, I am having 3.55s put in my 09 right now.
Is this going to be a problem without the Mopar PCM? Part of your post was that the
PCM allows running 3.07 to 4.10 gears.

RD

 

[redtanrt10]

The 3:55's are fine. While it will work w/91 octane it needs 93 to make the power. Lot's of info in the archives regarding the new ecm, do a search.

 

[sonofadragracer]

Mopar PCM
3.55 Gear
Full Belanger exhaust
B/M shifter

in my 08 ACR. Thanks Mark. Would not get the Belangers w/o the PCM. They really work well together.

 

[rcl4668]

Will the PCM work with 91 octane? Also, I am having 3.55s put in my 09 right now.
Is this going to be a problem without the Mopar PCM? Part of your post was that the
PCM allows running 3.07 to 4.10 gears.

RD

Based on previous posts, the Mopar PCM needs 93 as a minimum to see power gains and seems to like octane in the 95 range the best.

/Rich

 

[Flash1034]

Can any of you guys in CA who run 91 octane gas report on your Race PCM performance? I'd like to hear from some guys who run the same setup I will be. Stock except for airfilter, with 91 octane on my 2008 Coupe.

Thanks,

Flash

 

[seabass]

where do you all get the gas with 93 octane and higher? i was out at the IA Speedway and was shocked to see 93 at the gas station across the street but in Des Moines I have a hard time finding 91... do you use any additives?

thanks.

 

[Flash1034]

In CA, Premium gas is 91 octane.

Flash

 

[redtanrt10]

In CA, Premium gas is 91 octane.

Flash

Flash,

I haven't run straight 91 yet. I go to the Union 76 around MacArthur and the 73 and buy 4 gallons of their 100 unleaded, then 12 gallons of the 91, this gets you to 93.25

Theres another Unocal closer to you around Avery or Oso and the 5 but they never seem to have the 100. The place I go to is $8.99 for the 100.

From reading other posts including Mark @ Woodhouse, it will run on he 91, won't generate the power but the throttle response improvement is there. If you don't have headers or use 93 octane I wouldn't add the ecu.

Mike

 

[Flash1034]

Flash,

I haven't run straight 91 yet. I go to the Union 76 around MacArthur and the 73 and buy 4 gallons of their 100 unleaded, then 12 gallons of the 91, this gets you to 93.25

Theres another Unocal closer to you around Avery or Oso and the 5 but they never seem to have the 100. The place I go to is $8.99 for the 100.

From reading other posts including Mark @ Woodhouse, it will run on he 91, won't generate the power but the throttle response improvement is there. If you don't have headers or use 93 octane I wouldn't add the ecu.

Mike

Thanks Mike. Thats what I wanted to know. PS Can I have my wheels back?

Bill

 

[rcl4668]

where do you all get the gas with 93 octane and higher? i was out at the IA Speedway and was shocked to see 93 at the gas station across the street but in Des Moines I have a hard time finding 91... do you use any additives?

thanks.

From what the SRT engineers have posted, using octane boosters such as those that contain MMT is not recommended. The only route wouldbe to do what the previous poster did and buy unleaded 100 octane and dilute with premium pump gas. For example, here in Oregon we have 92 octane so 8 gals of the 100 plus gals of our 92 would = 96 octane.

 

[FastGuy68]

where do you all get the gas with 93 octane and higher? i was out at the IA Speedway and was shocked to see 93 at the gas station across the street but in Des Moines I have a hard time finding 91... do you use any additives?

thanks.

Hey, you can purchase SUNOCO 100 Unleaded at the track! Just go to the trailer and tell them you NEED fuel! I ran it last friday night and with the new MOPAR PCM it really pulls like a rocket!

 

[DPViper]

Finally got some time to get the new MOPAR PCM installed and now I wish I had done it months ago!! Holy crap does it make a difference! Throttle response is like night and day and it just seems to pull a lot harder now in the mid-range.

I just finished with my break in miles and I'm considering the Moper PCM. I'd like to hear from others that have upgraded their controller.....does everyone notice the same big improvement as FastGuy? I have a Corsa and 3.55s and I'm looking for improved response. Thanks for the comments.

 

[Newport Viper]

Sounds like this PCM is pretty useless in CA (91 gas) on street driven cars for the $. How much $ is it?

 

[Denny Wagner]

Yup...I agree.

I did the same PCM upgrade when I intsalled the Mopar full-race exhaust....BIGASS DIFFERENCE!!
I had to put new PS-2's on the rear!!

I seldom can find 93...but 91 seems to be okay for street driving.

 

[wallbanger]

OCTANE... mark has commented on the octane issue before and running higher than 93 will not yield better results.. here are his quotes

We have run 100 octane on the dyno and got a lower number than the 93. IMHO too much octane is like retarding timing and loosing power. The PCM is tuned to optimize the 93, any more is retarding the flame front (timing).

The MAX octane that will be affective is 93... The Mopar PCM will also run on 91 and 92 though if it has to. If you plan on going to the track or hard driving in high temps shoot for the 93 if you can get it. People do mix fuels, but they do not always effectively mix and you could end up getting bursts of good and bad at the wrong times so don't count on this as a fix. Some have had great luck with octane boosters that are designed for mixing though and I'm one of them. Not all are created equal though so do your research and don't use them in every tank as there is no real data points about the possible affects of prolonged usage in the Viper motor. FWIW.


HOWEVER others have their own results....here is a quote from a member using dan cragin as a source but remember this is a second hand quote
s Dan Cragin will chime in, but according to what Dan has told me, our cars with the Mopar controller (mine has Belangers and a K & N) run very well at up to 95 octane on his dyno (his shop is close to sea level) and actually prefers 95 and 94 to 93 octane.

I've been doing what most of us here in Kalifornia do, mix 100 with 91 (best we can get) and try for about a 50 / 50 mix. Car runs strong at the track - no issues.

 

[SilveRT8]

I just finished with my break in miles and I'm considering the Moper PCM. I'd like to hear from others that have upgraded their controller.....does everyone notice the same big improvement as FastGuy? I have a Corsa and 3.55s and I'm looking for improved response. Thanks for the comments.

To have an accurate idea of what the Mopar Controller realy does, I went on the Dyno before and after, here are my results :
-Stock '08/ Roe Racing H/F cats : 547.4 RWHP 506.5 RWTQ
-Added Mopar Controller : 563.4 RWHP 533.9 RWTQ
So, a gain of 16 HP and 27.4 TQ with the Controller, but my main impression is that the car runs much smoother now. On a cold start the idle speed settles down really quick and the exhaust note is tamer in a more refined way. No more exhaust popping on decel also, too bad cause I liked it before. This week I put back the Stock PCM and the car feels rougher again, louder and crisper exhaust note, popping on decel and more brutish engine response. Overall it feels like going from a carbed Harley to a Fuel Injected one, more power yes, but in a more refined way.
On the street I prefer the rougher stock PCM, but at the strip the Controller makes a big difference.

 

[Cop Magnet]

I also was told I could swap the original and Mopar PCM whenever desired. However, I wonder how long it takes to recalibrate when you do so?

Also, how long does it take to adapt to new fuel? If I load up with a 95 octane mix at the track, does the computer make the adjustments instantly, or is it 30-40 miles in various conditions? If it's the latter, it may be a waste of time.

I have only driven with the Mopar PCM, as Mark installed it at delivery. My idle hangs in a weird way: it "bounces" down to idle when you are at rest, and surges up when you first let off the gas. It's been 1k miles, so it should be broken in. Anyone else have this issue?