Florida 4x4 dot COM


WebMAIL Tech 4xForum Readers Rides Contact

RoadRunner "GUTS KIT" Installation

by Andy Mace aka SS2Win / Area51
pictures courtesy of Craig Moates



For our installation, we'll be using the common 2000-2007 LS1 ECM service number 12200411. This ECM has a 512kb EEPROM.



Here is the PCM disassembled. You'll need a T25 Torx wrench/screwdriver for the outer cover and a T20 Torx to remove the circuit board.



This is the EEPROM that we'll be removing. If you're unsure of which one to remove, look for the one that has "flash" printed on it. GMHighTech Performance has a nice picture HERE (chip "A") which is part of a nice article on Flash based GM ECM's HERE.



In this picture Craig shows us how easy removing the EEPROM is when you have the proper equipment. Those without SMD reword equipment can choose to solder all the legs together with ChipQuick (TM) however BE AWARE that the circuit board is not very heat tolerant. Use as little heat as possible for the shortest amount of time. If you're now worried about heat and don't mind destroying the exsiting EEPROM,an alternate method is to cut the legs off with a razor blade. If you choose this option, be sure to cut the legs off the body of the EEPROM taking care to not cut into the circuit board.



Once you have the EEPROM out, you should use desoldering wick to clean up excess solder from the pads on the circuit board. It is critical that the pads be clean before instaling the header.



Here we have the EEPROM header in place ready for soldering.



To make soldering go easier, use a flux pen. This will help ensure your solder joints are clean and contamination free. The solder will flow better.



After soldeing clean up any excess flux/rosin.



This is what the finished job should look like. The EEPROM is replaced with a header so we can connect the roadrunner.



Another shot. The solder should be clean and without excess solder. Watch out for solder bridges.



Now you can place the roadrunner on the header. Be careful not to bend any pins.



Here is the roadrunner fully seated on the header.



A view from above. Notice the plastic stand off / support at the bottom of the roadrunner.



A hole must be drilled to fasten the support stand off. A tip for locating the hole is to mark the end of the stand off with some ink and assemble the ECM. This will leave a mark you can use to drill the case properly.



After you've located the position of the hole, use a 7/64" drill bit.



Next drill a 29/64" hole for the usb cable. A step drill is handy here.



Feed the USB cable through the case cover and attach it to the roadrunner.



Use the supplied cable ties to fasten the USB cable.



Assemble the ECM taking care not to pinch or bind the USB cable on anything inside. (Don't route it as pictured, LOL)



Be sure the gasket is clean and properly seated in the grooves. This step is very important as a mistake here will allow moisture to get into the ECM. Go slowly, be careful.



Our ECM is assembled with the USB cable.



Use some silicone sealer to seal the case and you're done.


[vi powered!] me apache powerd Enhanced by mod_perl me redhat powerd
Linux is a trademark of Linus Torvalds
all content and graphics copyright 2003 florida4x4.com
use without premission strictly prohibited
read our disclaimer