Expert: Skip Bollinger - 12/17/2006

Question
Hi,

I installed a scrap yard BCM on my 1998 Caravan SE, 3 litre. My original BCM is 4801062AE VIN 2B4GP4532WR778848 The first replacement matched the id but had security on it.  Got it out right away popped in the old one and all was ok.Got another 2 days later and the model# 4801062AC and I had requested no security from the scrap yard.  All seemed fine for 6 hours.  Later that evening the alarm went off while starting the van. All this on a car with no alarm system. I had wondered if I had a remote if  I could turn it off.   But I guess that is too much to hope for.  The dealer wants $3000  and can't guarantee if it will start. He is quoting me on 3 new computers.  I may not need the tranny one but  the quoted it just in case.
I guess all these vans have the security feature available but it is either programmed on or off.  Is my PCM fried or what? Can I replace with 3 computers from a scrapyard?

Any help appreciated.


Answer
Bob,
  I would like to preface my opinion with this thought. I'm a Parts Professional, NOT a Tech, Okay?? I am NOT qualified to answer your question but I will offer my thoughts to you.
  You never did say what the original problem was so this is off the cuff...
  The computer is the HEART of the system in your vehicle. What you have done is take the heart from a monkey and tried to install it in a human. Didn't work. The list of incorrect transplants haven't worked. What you have fried, I don't know and no one else will until everything has been checked out. Why don't you just take your computer to your local parts store and get a rebuilt one? I know you are trying to save money but how much time have you spent messing with thing only to have it not work? Your time is worth money, don't forget that.
  It is obvious to me that you can't replace all 3 computers with boneyard parts. The first one didn't work, why should 3 more?
  I'd install the ORIGINAL computer and rent a code reader to pull the codes from the computer to see what that says. You need to to go back to square one. You have too many variables to really determine where the problem is. In my opinion, you are throwing too many parts at the vehicle at once to figure out what the problem may be.
  This are just thoughts from a Parts Professional, NOT a Tech. Please remember that. I hope this helps.
  I hope this finds you and your family well and happy. Please have a safe and happy Holiday Season. Good luck.
  Skip
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