Just saw this on alt.autos.dodge.trucks. I called my dealer and they didn't have
a clue...couldn't find anything on this TSB <sigh>. I called Chryco Customer
Care to inquire about it. According to the Chryco rep I spoke with, this fix will
be released to the dealers in 1 1/2 weeks (June 30th target date).
If anyone hears differently, please share the info.
YMMV,
-Mitch
> From: "Mike Simmons" <mikesim@fidnet.com>
> Subject: Spark Knock/Engine Ping '98/'99 Dodge Trucks
> Date: Wed, 14 Jun 2000 20:19:49 -0500
>
> In a post several months ago I alluded to a "fix" that would be forthcoming
> from Chryco that would address the spark knock problem many were
> experiencing on their '98/'99 MY Dodge trucks (AB/AN/BR/BE).
>
> I was advised that the TSB(s) to correct this problem would be released in
> late March and I advised the A.A.D.T. group that I would post this info as
> soon as I received it.
>
> Well, in their usual timely manner :^) Chryco has FINALLY released the TSB's
> promised in late March!
>
> The TSB's are 18-05-00 (for '98 MY vehicles) and 18-06-00 (for '99 MY
> vehicles)
> These TSB's involve selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain
> Control Module (PCM) with new software.
>
> The cautionary notes attached to the TSB are as follows and should be used
> for your information:
>
> Note: Verify that TSB 18-48-98 has been completed
>
> Note: This reprogramming WILL NOT compensate for heavy spark knock
> conditions. If heavy knock is experienced, further diagnosis and testing
> will be required. Refer to TSB 09-05-00 for additional assistance.
>
> Note: When pulling a heavy load or driving a fully loaded vehicle use
> premium unleaded fuel to minimize spark knock.
>
> Note: Whenever a Powertrain Control module is replaced due to failure, the
> software of the replacement controller must be verified for the latest
> revision level.
>
> The latest revision levels for '98 MY vehicles is 98Cal12 and 98Cal12C. The
> latest revision for '99 MY vehicles is 99Cal16 and 99Cal17.
>
> This TSB was released by Chryco Service Engineering on June 9th and may not
> have arrived at all dealers yet. Additionally, dealers MUST have the latest
> software level running in their MDS2 equipment to successfully update the
> vehicle's software.
>
> I have not tried this update yet, but everyone is crossing their fingers in
> the hopes that it will alleviate the spark knock problem for many of our
> customers. I hope this info proves useful to the group.
>
> Please contact your dealer for further details on this LONG AWAITED update.
>
> Good Luck!
>
> Chryco Service Manager
> Member SAE
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