Ford makes the programmers that FMC mechanics use. Ford can put any arbitrary restriction in software that they like. Ford could dictate that flash updates only occur during the witching hour with a full moon.

Ford could enforce this in software and it could enforce it in contract. It could also be that a dealership is "responsible" (in a liability sense) for a proceedure that is not recomended by Ford.

 

All Ford would need to do is query the engine temperature to decide when to use PI. It would probably take an upgraded PCM or FICM with more memory.

 

And of course, when you do take in your truck for work, insure that the clause noted below is placed on the work order.

Not withstanding anything to the contrary contained herein,
I do not authorize any flashing/reflashing of any of this
Truck's computers; This prohibition is of the essence.

Just a Thought.....on......My Perceptions......

 

I wrote this when I took mine in for the VTG actuator, and they typed it on the work order. They showed it to three different service writers.
The comment, customer knows what he wants!!!!~

It worked…

 

Already there. At least on my 4/15/03 build, no flashes. Above 140 water temp the PI is enabled, below, it is disabled.

A thought, perhaps ford should be monitoring oil temperature rather than water. Since the oil is slower to warm, it remains thicker longer, which we all know thicker, or higher viscosity is no good for this engine. Bet this would solve the problem. I am sure that a type flow meter through an orfice would give them a relative viscosity reading also. Fairly simple additions, I think.

FORD??????

Lariat

 

Good idea about the oil.

 

Lariat.......been thinking about your post..............REAL GOOD IDEA.
In fact brilliant

Said before repeated here..........no better members than FTE folks

 

Oil pressure at idle could be a good proxy for oil viscosity.

 

I am scheduled to get my truck reflashed tomorrow. I would hate to reduce my mileage. From the sound of this I would be crazy to let them reflash.

2003 6.0L Lariat Crew Cab
Build Date 6/17/2003
Never been flashed!!!

 

what is this VTG actuator you had replaced? what does it do? what are the syptoms of this being bad?

also, how do you know if you pilot injection is working/on or off??

 

Thanks Tim. My head is swelled

OK, how do we get Ford to listen to us peons????

The viscoity directly affects the performance flow characteristics within the Injector Intensifier. That is why I believe that a 15W40 affects a particular engine differently than a 10W30 or even a 5W30. Would not recomend a 5W30 unless it is a class IV synthetic. You will be seeing more and more of these with the CI-4 rating, I will bet. The call, and need is there for it.

Another modification that could be made would be to preheat the oil in the high pressure rail, but may be more than even the dual am alternator set up could handle. If it can be done, PI all the time, and no romp.

Ford you listening??????

Lariat