- Basic Knowledge and Tool Requirements

Basic Knowledge Of Tools Required

Notice: Lack of basic knowledge of this powertrain when performing diagnostic procedures could result in incorrect diagnostic performance or damage to powertrain components. Do not attempt to diagnose a powertrain problem without this basic knowledge. A basic understanding of the proper use of hand tools is necessary in order to effectively use this.

Use Of Circuit Testing Tools
DO NOT use a test lamp to diagnose powertrain control electrical systems unless specifically instructed to due so by the diagnostic procedures. Use the J 35616-A Connector Adapter kit or an equivalent whenever the diagnostic procedures call for probing any connectors.

PCM Service Precautions

Notice: Turn the ignition OFF when installing or removing the PCM connectors and disconnecting or reconnecting the power to the PCM (battery cable, PCM pigtail, PCM fuse, jumper cables, etc.) in order to prevent internal PCM damage.

The powertrain control module (PCM) is designed to withstand normal current draws associated with vehicle operations. Avoid overloading any circuit. Do not ground or apply voltage to any of the PCM circuits unless instructed to do so. Do not apply voltage to any of the PCM circuits when testing for an open or a short in an electrical circuit. The PCM circuits should only be tested using the J 39200 Digital Multimeter or an equivalent. The PCM electrical connectors should remain connected to the PCM during testing.

Aftermarket (Add-On) Electrical And Vacuum Equipment

Notice: Connect any add-on electrically operated equipment to the vehicle's electrical system at the battery (power and ground) in order to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Notice: Do not attach add-on vacuum operated equipment to this vehicle. The use of add-on vacuum equipment may result in damage to vehicle components or systems.

Aftermarket (add-on) Electrical and Vacuum Equipment is defined as any equipment installed on a vehicle after leaving the factory that connects to the vehicle's electrical or vacuum systems. No allowances have been made in the vehicle design for addition of this type of equipment.
Add-on electrical equipment may cause the engine control system to malfunction even when the add-on electrical equipment is installed properly. Portable telephones and radios may also cause engine control system malfunctions even when not connected to the vehicle's electrical system. The first step in diagnosing any engine control system problem is to remove all aftermarket electrical equipment from the vehicle. Diagnosis may proceed in the normal manner after eliminating aftermarket equipment as a cause of the engine control system malfunction.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Damage

Notice: In order to prevent possible Electrostatic Discharge damage to the PCM, Do Not touch the connector pins or the soldered components on the circuit board.

Electronic components used in the engine control system are often designed to operate at very low voltages. Electronic components are susceptible to damage caused by electrostatic discharge. Less than 100 volts of static electricity can cause damage to some of the electronic components. There are several ways for a person to become statically charged. The most common methods of charging are by friction and by induction. An example of charging by friction is a person sliding across a car seat. Charging by induction occurs when a person with well insulated shoes stands near a highly charged object and momentarily touches ground. Charges of the same polarity are drained off leaving the person highly charged with the opposite polarity. Therefore, use care when handling and testing electronic components in order to avoid electrostatic charges that can cause electronic component damage.