Phoenix Chip FAQ.

[cleatus12r]

Adding the Phoenix gives the custom tuner (Bill in this case) the ability to choose from literally dozens of different PCM codes that he can transform your PCM into without a reflash. Just keep in mind that the chip can only contain one PCM code.

[majek5]

So, does that mean that the code on the sticker of the pcm is no longer the code with the chip installed? Take it out to get the stock code? Sorry if these are silly questions.

[cleatus12r]

Sorry about the confusion.

That means that the PCM box code programming you currently have is no longer used and the base code off the chip is now the base programming.

For example, if you had a NAW6 code on your PCM, you probably have TDE1 programming on the chip so you basically have a TDE1 PCM as long as the chip is in. Being as you have a 97, you may have already started with a TDE1 though.

[jh225]

Originally Posted by cleatus12r

For example, if you had a NAW6 code on your PCM, you probably have TDE1 programming on the chip so you basically have a TDE1 PCM as long as the chip is in.

If I understand this correctly, as soon as you remove the Phoenix chip, the original OEM PCM code is back in play. Yes?

[cleatus12r]

You got it!

[Michael]

Cleatus12r - question on the Phoenix.....why does the heaviest tow option provide the lowest horsepower? Don't you want increased horsepower when towing something heavier?
Michael

[cleatus12r]

Ah, young grasshopper, you have much to learn.

In all seriousness though, the manner in which a diesel engine operates lends itself to the answering of your question.

As more fuel is added to a diesel engine to make more power, more heat is produced. This heat, if left to exceed 1250 degrees for an extended time (I'll throw out 20-30 seconds if it's much above 1250 degrees), will cause damage to the engine in the form of melted pistons. To make more power, we need more fuel.........more fuel equals more heat.

Towing programs limit the horsepower output to allow extra power but also to limit the heat. Towing heavy requires a good bit of fuel.....but too much fuel also makes too much heat and the chance of meltdown is increased.

Another problem with towing heavy and high horsepower increases comes into play with the physical limitations of the transmission, driveshaft u-joints, and rear differential. The drivetrain of the truck was designed to accomodate a certain amount of constant-duty torque. If you start towing 15,000 lbs.up a mountain pass with an extra 200 ft. lbs. of torque, you will do damage eventually since the drivetrain does have limits. They just are not designed for that kind of constant-duty use. Besides, trying to keep your exhaust gas temperature below 1250 degrees is going to be really tough with 100 HP worth of extra fuel going into the engine.

Keep in mind that you're not ALWAYS pushing an extra 100 HP through the drivetrain since the truck will maintain 75 MPH with the same HP output as stock while running empty.

[Michael]

i knew that....NOT

Well, I'm getting there, Cleatus. I've installed the 6637 filter with a cool cover by Pete's covers, and I've done the whole exhaust (turbo back) with a 3" dp and 4" exhaust after (hey, fyi we used a scissors jack - taken from my wife's pansy Hyundai, shoved it up from underneath and used that to pry back the firewall - worked great, and real easy!!).

I guess I should get a exhaust temp sensor, than I can finally get my Phoenix chip!

Have a great one..

Michael.

[99stackedpowerstroke]

i just ordered my chip yesterday, how long does it take to get shipped to the house??????? i have a xle4 pcm i could have the chip burnt for a pmt pcm?????

[cleatus12r]

I appreciate the phone call earlier. Unfortunately, without actually having a DPC-422 PCM (unlike your 402), you are not able to run PMT1 programming. Keep your eyes open for PCMs on ebay or you can go to Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market and search for a PCM from a 49-state 99.5-01 F250/350.