Switching to a 1997 ECM in a 1996 GTP

[GPChief]

Does anyome have a VIN from a wrecked or parted out 1997 Monte Carlo Z34? I am purchasing a Monte Carlo 1997 Engine Computer PCM ECM 16227797 3.4L to put in my 1996 GTP. The person (on e-bay) wont sell it to me unless I provide a VIN number for them to reprogram it.

If there is a easier way or if I am missing something please let me know.

[86FieroSEv6]

Why shouldn't it be programmed with your VIN? Won't your VATS be broadcasting your VIN?

[Dave96z34]

No its on the pcm I have one you can use but i don't have its vin handy. I made myn say boobs before just because I can. You do know there were harness changes 96 to 97 fire wall as well as switching to a 4t65 right? You cant just drop a 97 pcm in a 96.

[GPChief]

Ive got a spare 1997 PCM for my 1997 GTP, I didnt think a 3800 SC PCM would work with the 19963.4 DOHC. I'll need to check the numbers next time I am at home.

@Dave, you have me spending entirely too much time researching & wanting to SC a 3.4 DOHC now that I see others have done it. Any pics of the IC set up?

[RedZMonte]

search autotrader or cars.com for one. thats what i did....

now why are you putting a '97 ecu into a '96? the auto trans is not going to work unless you replaced you 4t60 with a 4t65..... or am i missimg something? my '96 ecu works well with my turbo setup.... if your looking for tuning capabilities then your good with the '96

btw hello form loveland

[GPChief]

I was told by some members that I had to get a 1997 PCM to use HP Tuners? is this wrong?

[SappySE107]

I am using the 97 computer in a 92 with a 5 speed. I thought the 97 came in either 4T60E or 4T65. I am not home or I would tell you the number on the computer.

[mrl390]

97 Z34 only had the 4t65e. Wouldnt you need the harness and sensors from a 97 Z34 to use the 97 PCM? The 97 is OBDII and the 96 isnt. Not really sure the wiring/sensor differences between the two (if any).

[SappySE107]

I was told it would drop in the 96 with a 65E swap. 1996 is OBD2. The 96 achieva uses a 97 grand am PCM as a drop in. That is about all I can tell you.

[RedZMonte]

'96 Is OBDII.... I did a '96 Swap on mine and tune with DHP Powrtuner.. It may be true that HPT will only tune a '97+ (i believe that is what i have also heard).... With the DOHC the only trans i know it used in '97 was the 65e. which if your running a 5spd is fine but with the auto im 99% sure you need to run a 96 ecu unless you plan on swapping your trans out as well....... Again going off memmory.

For what its worth, the '96 swap is easy and DHP you can find used cheap and its unlocked to all supported models so no paying for credits... IIRC i got mine under $300 shipped.

[mrl390]

Oh cool, I never knew 96 was OBDII as well. Thought it was only 97. Good little tidbit of information.

[jman093]

http://60degreev6.com/forum/showthread.php/46236-PwrTuner-and-1997-DOHC?p=421932&viewfull=1#post421932

He's using the 97 PCM on a 4T60e and just ignores the shift time and pressure charts. (I imagine you have to turn off some DTCs though). The other advantage not mentioned is 97 PCMs have the performance shift button capability if someone wanted to add that feature to a 4T60e. I'd like to go 97 PCM myself someday.

[Dave96z34]

Performance shift mode is kinda cool but you quickly figure out you end up just programing it pretty much the same as your modified new wot shift points and shift time and pressures... Hey man find me on facebook I have some pics of it on there. look up ra.hellmaker@yahoo.com Today I spent 6 hours working on building a new belt tensioner system.