Hello,

It was a sad day when they started putting computers in vehicles. I have searched but can't find the info.

Does anyone know what is the last year that E series vans and F series trucks had no computers? And would that apply to gas versions as well?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Norm

 

last year for diesel trucks without an engine computer was 94. diesels with the E4od trans has a trans computer
as far as gas engines go, the fuel injection started back in the 80's. all fuel injected engines had computers.

 

I would actually disagree on that, but then again, I am a computer "nerd" as it is.

There are a lot of benefits to having computers(and pitfalls) on vehicles and I think they outway the bad. Unless all the things mentioned for OBD-III(or at least rumored to be on there) come to bare. If that happens, then I would agree with you.

 

To clarify, it was the '94 IDI that was the last diesel without a computer.

As far as gassers go...I believe the '87 460 was the last carbed gasser, I don't know what the last year for carbs on the 302 and 351 were, probably '86.

 

Thank you all for your replies.

I am a computer programmer and still think it is a bad idea for computers in vehicles. I understand the benefits but when the cam positioning sensor in my 1999 F350 dually diesel decides it doesn't know what is going on and shuts me down I get a bit irritated. And that seems to happen about every five years. I replaced one back in 2005 (before the recall) and Ford just replaced another one.

My reason for my original question is that we are looking for a 3/4 ton van to build a rock hunting/fishing/camping rig and I am really hoping to find a diesel version.

Thanks again for your replies, I really appreciate the help.

Norm

 

Is a broken cam positioning sensor any worse than a cracked distributor cap, or a bad set of points, or a failed high pressure pump on a diesel?

Computerized engines have given us far more reliable, easier to diagnose, higher horsepower engines with lower emissions. I fail to see how that is a bad thing.

 

dchamberlain,
you make some very good points. i guess i just need to learn how to diagnose my rig. vehicle electronics have never been my strong suit.
thanks for replying.

Norm

 

Pretty much covered but if you could get a 94 or earlier van with the IDI diesel and the C6 transmission then you have no computer. The trans needs no electrics to run and the engine only needs one wire to the fuel shutoff solenoid for it to run.
However you would miss the power of your Power Stroke but not the cost of engine parts.

 

I think that's where a lot of people are and why they tend to say that vehicle electronics are this horrific thing that has been thrust upon vehicles.

It's a lot easier then people think to handle the electronics, it's just the willingness to learn it all.

 

I agree with Tex. I've never had a prob diagnosing an ECU controlled engine. It's almost easier, the Computer tells You where to start.

BUT, I also LOVE My IDI's. As stated, 1 wire with 12v to it, and the engine is running. Sweet!

 

I appreciate all your input. My comment may have been hasty and I will never give up my 1999 SD 7.3, it is too cool.

It looks like I have some learning to do!

Norm

 

I built my Bronco with a '91 all mechanical diesel and a C6 automatic, manual hubs, and manual t-case. I average 20 mpg, even with 35" tires and 9" of lift, and tuning the diesel for increased power is very simple and easy. The motor makes enough power to spin the tires at 30 mph. All mechanical is the way to go.

 

If you know how to tweak all the components, it's a lot more efficient and better with computers.

I can smoke my 4 rear tires really easy at low speeds.

 

5 grand on the whole project, and simplicity... I will never own a computer controlled vehicle again.

 

That's about what I paid for everything. Simplicity...depends on who you talk to. To me these things are easier to handle all the way around, but I am weird that way.