As most here know, I am rebuilding a victim of an underhood fire. The fire damage was ONLY under the hood- nothing in the cabin was burned.

My Excursion does have the PATS system, and I have the key that matches what is on my truck. The guy I am buying my wiring from is selling me the underhood harness, the PCM and the PATS module. (Because I have no idea if the PCM and PATS on my rig have shorted out or not).

I understand the basic concept of the PATS system, but what I don't know is if or how the various components match up to each other. Here's the questions...

1- Does the PCM recognize individual PATS modules? In other words, would a PCM "know" if a PATS module has been changed?

2- Assuming the PCM an PATS module has to stay together, let's say that I use the PCM and PATS module that I am buying (they came off the same Excursion). Would they function with the key and ignition that is already in MY Excursion, or does the key and ignition have to match with it's original PATS module?

3- If none of what I am asking works out, is dragging this thing to a dealer my only option?

Any insight would be appreciated. It'll suck to get to the point where I'm ready to start it up and get locked out by PATS...

 

1. If the PATS and PCM are from the same vehicle they should already be synced with one another if my reading is correct. If they are different I think they need to be synced.

2. You would need to get your key reprogrammed for the new PATS module. Ignition is fine. Other option is to get ignition and keys from seller that go with PATS you are buying.

These answers were surmised from a very brief glance at the following document - I could be wrong and would suggest giving it a quick glance.

This document should help. The table says that the Excursion is Type B PATS.

http://www.bsecorp.com/files/techtips/FORD%20PATS.pdf

Cheers,

Nate

 

I think you'll need to reprogram the PATS system with something like ForScan so you don't have to take it to a dealer.

http://forscan.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=839

 

Get matching keys from donor vehicle.

Apply "redneck PATS bypass" as follows:

1. Remove transponder ring from column.
2. Affix programmed key inside transponder key. Good use for duct tape.
3. Secure key and ring up under dash out of sight and out of the way. Use some more duct tape.

Like everything "redneck", there are downside factors to consider. However, the "fix" is cheap and fast, like many other "redneck" shortcuts.