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Topic: ECM, TCM, EIEIO (Read 1112 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
Pamela & Mike 97 U 320

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #2 –
Yep 1990 Grand Villa none of that stuff.
The Starship- 1990 Grandvilla Unihome U300 40ft
6V92 Detroit Diesel w/ 4 spd Allison w/ retarder. Build# 3575 , Foretravel# 17895
The Shuttlecraft- 2015 Ford Explorer
Steve ( N6EKV ) & Lori ( N6JTD ) Faries  w/ Marlee our precious pup.
Patterson CA.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #3 –
1997 U295 had mechanical engine. Transmission was computer control along with the thermostat
2014 ih45  (4th Foretravel owned)
 1997 36' U295 Sold in 2020, owned for 19 years
  U240 36' Sold to insurance company after melting in garage fire
    33' Foretravel on Dodge Chassis  Sold very long time ago

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

1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #6 –
Lost alternator and generator in Alaska,made it home without both.
96 U270 BUILD 4810
85 380SL
Drummonds TN.

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.
EMT living in Missouri. Recently purchased 1987 Gran Villa 36 Ft. long,460 Ford engine with 40,000 miles on it, new tranny has 3000 miles on it, coach has 75000 miles on it, new 5000 watt genny new fridge, new tires. Am both excited and scared out of my wits at the size of this beast. Love it but need time to become accustomed to it's size.  I'm sure it will take time to experience all the secrets this RV has to offer. Any and all advice gratefully accepted.

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.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #9 –
Craneman....
 
 NOW YOU DONE DID IT!
In restless dreams I walked alone.
Narrow streets of cobblestone.


'93 U225
Build 4337
'14 CRV Toad

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.
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #11 –
Quote from: bbeane –
The other side of the coin, is the computer controls will alert you to possible impending engine/trans damage.
x2
Hans & Marjet
1995 U300 "Ben" (#4719)
3176B Cat,4060HD,Jake
SKP#139131
Motorcade#17579
2006 Honda Element (towed)

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.
96 U270 BUILD 4810
85 380SL
Drummonds TN.

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
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

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.
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

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.
1998 36 foot U270 Build No. 5328 WTFE, 900 watts solar, Victron controller, B2B, bat monitor, 600 AMPH lithium with 2018 Chevy Colorado toad, SKP #110239, Motorcade #17781, 2021 Escape 17B for when Coach is broken down and campsites are too small, retired and full-timer since Dec. 2020. Part of RV family since 1963.

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  ;)
1987 Grand Villa ORED
2001 U320 4010

Not all that wander are lost... but I often am.

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
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #20 –
Quote from: Pierce & Gaylie Stewart –
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

Ive got 35k miles on my replacement unit, guess it could go out any time soon then

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #21 –
Quote from: dsd –
Ive got 35k miles on my replacement unit, guess it could go out any time soon then
Scott, please note that I said it may save the day or remedy the situation for a short time. Guess it depends if you are a half empty person or the half full type. Sounds like the replacement saved the day for you but the check list is something to consider for PM maintenance.

Pierce
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #22 –
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
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

If you got that, which I'd be hesitant to being from China, I'd want to swap it, take it for a spin around the block and if all is good, start a trip asap to ensure everything works. You'd have your backup as a spare should something go wrong. If anything does not work as it should, you have 60 days to return it.

Is there a junkyard for these? I wouldn't mine buying one as well and having it reflashed/reprogrammed.

Jason
2000 U295 36' Non-slide  ISC350

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #23 –
Quote from: Jason –
If you got that, which I'd be hesitant to being from China, I'd want to swap it, take it for a spin around the block and if all is good, start a trip asap to ensure everything works. You'd have your backup as a spare should something go wrong. If anything does not work as it should, you have 60 days to return it.

Is there a junkyard for these? I wouldn't mine buying one as well and having it reflashed/reprogrammed.


Absolutely. Would install immediately. They say factory Cummins part, but who knows. Price is okay for a new part. Keeping my old one with all the mileage is a good proven spare.

Re: ECM, TCM, EIEIO

Reply #24 –
You got me looking Scott.... My 2000 is a different part # than your 2001, I have Cummins ISC ECM 3944105 – Diesel ECM. 

I don't know anything about this place, but the price seems fair for it being guaranteed tested, programmed and a lifetime warranty. Or send in yours for a lower price. I did price a new one for mine, it was just under 3 coach bucks. Ouch.

Here is the part # you supplied. Cummins ISM ECM 3408501 – Diesel ECM

Anyone used this place before? They're in Grand Prairie, TX. 
Jason
2000 U295 36' Non-slide  ISC350