California ECM versus Federal ECM

[j.anderson]

Hi...first post here /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />

I've got a 96 5.8 XL and I need to replace the computer F6TF12A650ARD (CA). I'm wondering if I can just swap it out for the Federal version? I don't live in CA and we don't even have emissions tests here so that part doesn't matter.

I actually found a F6TF12A650WE (Fed) at a good price and didn't know if I should buy it.

Also, from what I've read the only way I can avoid a tune is to get the original one, but I don't know how expensive the tune would be or if this even matters.

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[muddrivermike]

As far as I know you CANNOT switch them.The cali computers usually control emissions differently from an federal one since cali is more strict on their emissions.I could be wrong but I asked the same question years ago when I needed a ecu for something and they asked federal or california emissions.I know on the toyotas I currently work on at the dealer everything from the computers to the catyalic convertors and exhaust are different depending on what emissions they are... B)

 

[50joe]

By "tune" I assume you mean being Flashed? If so, usually the dealer will do that for around 80-120 bucks or so. Might wanna ask ford what problems you might run into, if any, before you buy it.

 

[j.anderson]

Thanks everyone for the replies!

I have the RWD Auto 4x4 e40d tranny. The EEC I found should be identical except for the emissions factor (it's a Fed.) I just wasn't sure what would happen if I connected a Fed version and tried to run it. Would it just run poorly, not all all, or do bad things to other components?

 

[j.anderson]

Well, I've got the E4OD, 96, 5.8, XL.

The new computer is listed as for a 96 F150/250 5.8L 4X4 AT. Is there more than one model of AT for that year? I thought they would all be the E4OD for 96.

 

[j.anderson]

Yeah, I saw all the detail of the link (thank you) but the EEC I bought is separated from the truck so I have no idea about the VIN, etc.

Hey, I'll know soon enough if it works /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />