Explorer Sport Trac 4WD V6-4.0L VIN K Flex Fuel (2004)
Information Bus: Description and Operation
Module Configuration
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
Definition of Terms
Calibration Update: Some modules are designed to be flashed or reflashed with complete new software packages. This process of reflashing the
module is a calibration update.
Programmable Parameters: These are options contained within the existing software. These include items such as tire size, customer preference items
and anti-theft options. The current settings are downloaded from an existing module then uploaded to a new module. They can also be configured
using the diagnostic tool. Programming parameters is different from updating calibrations as no software is changed, only the options already in the
software.
Some modules must be programmed during a repair procedure. If the procedure is not carried out, the module will not function correctly and may set a
number of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). DTCs B2477 or P1639 indicate necessary data has not been programmed into the module.
Modules that require programming should not be transferred between vehicles. The parameter values or settings are unique to each vehicle and if not
set correctly will cause a fault.
WDS will automatically attempt to retrieve the module configuration information. If the module does not contain the correct information, the
diagnostic tool will request As Built data, or display a list of items that will require manual configuration. The diagnostic tool will program the
module based on the manual data entered.
There are three different methods that are used for module programming:
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programmable module installation (PMI)
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calibration update
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programmable parameters
Some modules do not support all three methods.
Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
The programmable module installation (PMI) method is used when a new programmable module is installed. Commanding the diagnostic tool to
obtain the module option content from the old module is not required. The diagnostic tool automatically obtains any available module option content
information from the old module during the Vehicle ID routine. This routine is carried out when the diagnostic tool is initially connected to the
vehicle. Therefore, it is important to connect the WDS to the vehicle and allow the WDS to identify the vehicle and obtain the configuration data prior
to removing any modules.
Calibration Update
Calibration update is used to install a new calibration and strategy into a module.
Programmable Parameters
If a module that has been modified using programmable parameters needs to be replaced, the PMI procedure will maintain the parameters in their
altered state if the WDS is able to communicate with the old module during the initial Vehicle ID. Otherwise, the programmable parameters may
require configuring to return them to the modified state.
As-Built Data Center
The As-Built Data Center maintains a record of the vehicle configuration in a database. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is required to obtain
this information. The As-Built Data Center records the applicable module configurations stored in each module before the vehicle leaves the factory
and will always reflect the original build of the vehicle. Contact the As-Built Data Center only when directed to do so by the diagnostic tool.
