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Topic: ECM, TCM, EIEIO (Read 1228 times) previous topic - next topic

ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Are there any of the older Foretravels which aren't "cursed" with electronically controlled engine/transmission/chassis electrical systems?
Thanks, Mikeado1

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #1 –
Yes, our '92 U-240 was all mechanical. 

Mike

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #2 –
Yep 1990 Grand Villa none of that stuff.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #3 –
1997 U295 had mechanical engine. Transmission was computer control along with the thermostat

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #4 –
Good to know! Thanks all!!!!
Mikeado1

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #5 –
If the Allison transmission is a 6 speed (3060 or 4060, with or with out retarder) it is electronic control.

I don't know anything about the 4 speed trannys (MT643, MT647, MTB648, HT746).  They may be mechanical control.

You can look up the specs on most early models at the link below:

Foretravel Specifications, Floor Plans, Photos & Brochures by Year

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #6 –
Lost alternator and generator in Alaska,made it home without both.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #7 –
I have an 87 model. Came with a Ford 460. Luckily there is very little in the way with electronics. One reason I bought this unit. Sad fact that the newer the model the more electronics you have to deal with. Is there a way to go into your system and remove those pesky electronic systems? Just a thought. Best of luck to you.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #8 –
People in general only post complaints they have with electronics. They are the 10%ers the other 90 % aren't posting about how great everything is. I am one of the majority and don't post either about how smooth the components of my coach operate without ever seeing check engine or other icons. Seven years now and I hope this doesn't jinx the trip we are leaving on.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #9 –
Craneman....
 
 NOW YOU DONE DID IT!

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #10 –
The other side of the coin, is the computer controls will alert you to possible impending engine/trans damage.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #12 –
If your not a mechanic and take your machine to a shop for everything then you tend to like a newer unit,the ones who do most
of their own work like the older ones simply because they are easier to work on.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #13 –
I purchased my coach and suspect it had experienced a static discharge event. Both the engine ECM and HWH controllers were bad. Yes I understand your concern, but every car on the road today relies on many computers to make them function. I agree the eighties were a tough learning curve for the manufactures but they are quite dependable IMO now. That being said some of the fuel systems " CAPS" would be a bigger concern to me, but yes they too are resolvable. 3000 series Allisons also evolved. So many different ways to get to what you want. The search function at the top right of this page holds many answers and possibly many more questions. Good luck on your search
Scott
Note I started this post just after chuck posted but was called to go change a damaged Buss Protection Control Panel. BPCU. Yes it too is computer controlled and was broken. Lol

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #14 –
While Craneman has left everyone dangling up in the air, I have to say that I agree with him. 90% of RV drivers have no clue what is going on, so the computers are there to protect them from themselves. Plus, Foretravel put all the warning lights on GVs where the steering wheel rim blocks the view. Our U300 does not have a buzzer so when the hydraulic belt broke right after we bought the coach, I never noticed it until the DDEC went into shutdown mode. Any kind of major engine overheat or failure is going to cost between $30K and $40K to fix in a shop. For a Detroit, the DDEC also means there is no rack to run so no shop bills for this task. The electronic injectors cost a lot more than the mechanical but we have never had to replace one yet. Plus, we can test the injectors with the ProLink 9000 so most problems can be owner addressed with over 40 different readouts for boost, fuel temp/pressure, MPG overall since new, trip or real time, fast idle, etc, etc.  To finish my ramble, I don't dislike the concept of electronic controls, I just hate automatic transmissions.

Note that all electronic controls are not created equal.

Chuck, sorry, but I could not resist that one at the top.

Potential RV owners should be aware that shop repairs have gone from expensive to budget breaking expensive. That and the cost of operation for insurance, fuel, towing and normal maintenance is driving the cost of ownership through the roof. The latest smog engines are MUCH more likely to require more maintenance. Many are finding that something like a Sprinter is a lower stress alternative. 

Pierce

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #15 –
I just did an exhaust manifold myself parts 600 bucks. Having just had to replace an ECM $3800.00 while out on the road, you are at the mercy of the shop. That is if you can find a shop that will work on a motorhome in a timely fashion. It ain't for the faint of heart. Now on with generator repair, looking like the generator head is bad, will find out on the 5th.
          Being broke down in the driveway at home is one thing, out on the road is something all together different mechanical or electronic, as you are usually some place where you just can't go taking the rv apart.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #16 –
This varies so much by year of build and model. My 98 has an all mechanical 1997 C8.3 with 325 hp. The 3060R transmission has a computer as does the suspension with HWH controller. Take an all mechanical engine up to 9000 plus feet and you will wish it had a computer to adjust air fuel mixture. When a mechanical dash gauge goes wonky you will miss the option of Silverleaf readings. With no egr, particulate filter, def, and regeneration mode you eliminate a lot of failure points. My obsolete King Throttle and cruise is a ticking time bomb. Pick your poison.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #17 –
Quote from: bbeane –
I just did an exhaust manifold myself parts 600 bucks. Having just had to replace an ECM $3800.00 while out on the road, you are at the mercy of the shop. That is if you can find a shop that will work on a motorhome in a timely fashion. It ain't for the faint of heart. Now on with generator repair, looking like the generator head is bad, will find out on the 5th.
          Being broke down in the driveway at home is one thing, out on the road is something all together different mechanical or electronic, as you are usually some place where you just can't go taking the rv apart.
So this has been in the back of my mind since I purchased my rebuilt ECM. Lifetime warranty. Like 950K miles recorded on it. Its not rebuilt but reflashed. Very few failure history, but without a working ECM you have a expensive paperweight.
I offen consider getting a "new" spare knowing that it would be less than the cost of a tow. Would also carry with me in the coach in a shipping box. Im guessing if I was to purchase one I would never need it! But would have with me to overnight to someone who did. It can take days to get one and longer to get it programmed to your coach. I am my own worst enemy. Good warranties are great till you need the product
Programmed Control Module ECM ECU 3408501 Cummins Engine Parts QSM11.... I contacted them and they said can be programmed to our coach.  Was $1190? This is made by Cummins of China. Anyones guess as to build quality

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #18 –
Quote from: dsd –
So this has been in the back of my mind since I purchased my rebuilt ECM. Lifetime warranty. Like 950K miles recorded on it. Its not rebuilt but reflashed. Very few failure history, but without a working ECM you have a expensive paperweight.
I offen consider getting a "new" spare knowing that it would be less than the cost of a tow. Would also carry with me in the coach in a shipping box. Im guessing if I was to purchase one I would never need it! But would have with me to overnight to someone who did. It can take days to get one and longer to get it programmed to your coach. I am my own worst enemy. Good warranties are great till you need the product
I think this is a great idea Scott, you should definitely do it  ;)

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #19 –
ECU don't usually fail by themselves. Cummins injector wiring or even an injector failure can cause ECU overheating and failure. Here is a list of the most common reasons ECUs fail.

So, having an extra ECU with you may save the day or may only remedy the situation for a short time.

https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/attachments/technical-stuff/1543405d1471514654-procuring-ecu-old-car-ecu-failure-reasons.pdf  Note the emphasis on the Celect Plus type.

Pierce