computer integration

[jonwatts]

Hope I have this posted in the proper forum. Just introduced myself over at the new guy place yesterday. Here is just a recap what I am attempting to accomplish. My goal is to use an aftermarket fuel injection system and a separate trans controller with a 302 powered 2000 Explorer(I think I found one to purchase). My question is this. What systems are integrated into the on board computer and what can operate independently from it? For instance, can the charging system wiring be used as is with slight mods? Can the lights, power windows, and door locks be used independently? I know the instruments are dead independent the brain box and mechanical gauges can solve that issue. Old guy here, weak on electric as you can obviously discern, but I have specific goals in mind and will reveal them as we discuss my project. I can handle all of the mechanical and fab stuff, just need some direction moving signals and electrons. PATS has to go.

Jon

 

[SoHK_alumni]

A lot of "stuff" is routed through the PCM.. Fuel pump relay, A/C clutch relay, tachometer, ground for the starter solenoid relay, emissions valving etc. Plus all the functions from the PRNDL switch at the transmission.

All can be divorced as needed. Last I saw, a standalone controller for the 4R70W was fairly pricey.

Yes, the alternator will happily work without the OEM PCM. It's wiring does not go through the PCM, or even the PCM's wiring harness.

 

[jonwatts]

Thanks for your reply SoHK, I've attended the same school as you a number of times. It's good to know the charging system is independent of the computer, that's a big plus. What about all the wiring to the headlights and tail lights? Hopefully most of that can be left as is as well. I'll probably acquire this truck in the next couple of days and start planning this endeavor. I'll most likely run it as is through the winter with the exception of the AWD transfer case. I'm going to start looking for a BW4406 manual, the drive shafts, and the shifter linkage and make that change first. The trans controllers are quite pricy. I haven't done a lot of research on those yet, and I'm more concerned about reliability than anything.

My goal is to build a truck that is road worthy and also serve as a hunting and camping truck. It will not be a rock crawler, just something that can negotiate some back country muddy trails. I will, from time to time, tow a small overlanding type trailer or one loaded with a 4 wheeler. In short, it will not see heavy abuse. So, follow along and any info you all might ad will be greatly appreciated! Hopefully ad some pics next week.

Jon