Resetting ECM for Towing

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Apr 28, 2017 | 07:04 AM

Thermoss

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Joined: Jun 2015

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Resetting ECM for Towing

Has anyone ever tried resetting their ECM prior to towing?

I'm talking about disconnecting the battery for a bit and then reconnecting. Normally the ECM resets over the next half hour or so of normal driving after a battery disconnect or discharge.

In this case I'd have my fully loaded trailer attached while the computer was resetting. My theory is that the computer module would maximize fuel economy and give maximum power with the trailer which might be good for my three thousand mile journey.

Does that make sense to anyone or am I better off leaving things alone (and of course I'd be using it in 'hauling mode' in either case)?

Last edited by Thermoss; Apr 28, 2017 at 07:05 AM. Reason: additional information

Apr 28, 2017 | 07:57 AM

Diamnd1

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Joined: Jun 2011

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From: TN

I have reset my computer just a few times as I have had to disconnect the battery for other service, but I have noticed that it will do some "searching" for awhile before settling in parameters. I would be very hesitant to reset and then hook up for a tow. You might pay more in repair costs than what you would save in fuel mileage.

If you want an increase in towing ability, check into 5startuning.com.

Apr 28, 2017 | 08:14 AM

projectSHO89

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Joined: Jan 2004

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From: St Louis

You'd be better off leaving it alone.

Apr 28, 2017 | 08:16 AM

Copper.Farm

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From: Bozeman MT

Which motor is this?

Apr 28, 2017 | 08:44 AM

Pocket

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Joined: Jun 2004

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From: Parker, CO

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thermoss

In this case I'd have my fully loaded trailer attached while the computer was resetting. My theory is that the computer module would maximize fuel economy and give maximum power with the trailer which might be good for my three thousand mile journey.

Short and to the point: ECM learning doesn't work that way.

All you'll end up with is a few quirky shifts for a short period, then everything will go back to how it was before. You won't have any change in power or fuel economy.

Apr 28, 2017 | 10:25 AM

Poncho450

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Joined: Oct 2014

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From: NY/Canada border

Quote:

Originally Posted by Diamnd1

If you want an increase in towing ability, check into 5startuning.com.

In my experience with a 2014 and a 2016, it was not money well spent.

Apr 28, 2017 | 03:59 PM

'88 E-350

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Jul 2010

Posts: 1,753

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From: Los Angeles, Ca.

My '99's WOT 1st-2nd shift point goes way up past the rev limiter after a reset where it normally shifts at a lower than expected RPM. It takes hitting the limiter a few times then it starts shifting earlier and earlier 'till it settles back to shifting early. If I drive it without maxing out 1st it doesn't seem to change even after driving it several days. Not sure what the other shift points do, it's hard to find an opportunity to max out 2nd with the traffic around here.