Hombre S Regular Cab 4WD V6-4.3L (1999)
Engine Control Module: Service Precautions
Electrostatic Discharge Damage
Electrostatic Discharge Damage
Electronic components used in the PCM/VCM are often designed to carry very low voltage. Electronic components are susceptible to damage caused by
electrostatic discharge. Less than 100 volts of static electricity can cause damage to some electronic components. By comparison, it takes as much as
4000 volts for a person to feel even the zap of a static discharge.
There are several ways for a person to become statically charged. The most common methods of charging are by friction and induction.
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An example of charging by friction is a person sliding across a vehicle seat.
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Charge by induction occurs when a person with well insulated shoes stands near a highly charged object and momentary touches ground. Charges
of the same polarity are drained off leaving the person highly charged with the opposite polarity. Static charges can cause damage, therefore it is
important to use care when handling and testing electronic components.
NOTE: To prevent possible electrostatic discharge damage, follow these guidelines:
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Do not touch the PCM/VCM connector pins or soldered components on the PCM/VCM circuit board.
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Do not open the replacement part package until the part is ready to be installed.
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Before removing the part from the package, ground the package to a known good ground on the vehicle.
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If the part has been handled while sliding across the seat, while sitting down from a standing position, or while walking a distance, touch a
known good ground before installing the part.
NOTE: To prevent internal PCM/VCM damage, the ignition must be in the "OFF" position in order to disconnect or reconnect power to the
PCM/VCM (for example: battery cable, PCM/VCM pigtail, PCM/VCM fuse, jumper cables, etc.).
IMPORTANT: When replacing the production PCM/VCM with a service PCM/VCM, it is important to transfer the broadcast code and production
PCM/VCM number to the service PCM/VCM label This will allow positive identification of PCM/VCM parts throughout the service life of the vehicle.
Do not record this information on the metal PCM/VCM cover.
IMPORTANT: The ignition should always be in the "OFF" position in order to install or remove the PCM/VCM connectors.
Service of the PCM/VCM should normally consist of either replacement of the PCM/VCM or EEPROM programming. If the diagnostic procedures call
for the PCM/VCM to be replaced, the PCM/VCM should be checked first to ensure it is the correct part. If it is, remove the faulty PCM/VCM and install
the new service PCM/VCM.
The service PCM/VCM EEPROM will not be programmed. DTC P0601 indicates the check sum error.
