Superchip Troubles

[Ray]

I recently purchased and installed a used Superchip that was originally placed in a '93 Ranger 4.0L Automatic. I put the chip into my '94 Sport Automatic, because I had been told that the chip would work. I disconnected the negative battery terminal, put the chip in (after cleaning that coating off of the contacts in the computer), let it sit for a few minutes, reconnected the terminal and went on my way. At first the chip seemed to work: Shift points changed, and I could feel more low end acceleration... Then the problems started. After about 20 miles, I started the truck and got a check engine light that came on for a few seconds then went out, so I started driving. Then the light stars flashing, the tachometer is racing, the truck is jerking back and forth as if it's completely missing gears while shifting, and the exhaust is very dark and smells strange. At a stoplight the truck died completely. I got to the side of the road, took out the chip, and everything works fine now. I was using Premium fuel just like you're supposed to. Does anyone know what could be causing this? At first I thought the contacts were bad, because when I hit a bump the engine light would either come on or go off. But that no longer seems to be the case. I've heard about needing to check jumpers in the computer, but no specifics. Can anyone shed any light on this problem?

 

[Tom Wilk]

Ray,

Generally, these chips are programmed specefically for the computer settings in your vehicle. I'm not sure about the earlier models (pre-OBD-II) like yours, but on later models, there is a code printed on the computer ID sticker that gives specific information on the programming used in your computer. Even two identical vehicles with the same engine, transmission, etc. can have different computer codes.

In other words, the chip must be set up to work with your specific application. You may want to talk to www.superchips.com and see if they can reprogram the chip for you. For now, though, take it out until you can get the right one in there.

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Tom
99 Sport 4x4
SOHC
Auburn Rear & Gerald's old Shackles
265/75-R16 BFG AT's that weren't supposed to fit

 

[Alec]

When you cleaned the contacts, did you use laquer thinner? If not, use some with some Q-tips to get EVERYTHING off. The laquer thinner will not hurt anything. Just be careful because it's very flammable.

I think the chip is programmed incorrectly. You probably have a different computer than the other guy like Tom said.

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Alec Rosenbaum
University of Texas @ Austin

1996 Explorer Sport
4.0L V6 2WD Auto
K&N Filtercharger
Magnaflow Cat-back
Hypertech Module
Aux Lights/Horns
Custom Stereo

 

[Robert Gardner]

I don't think the chip is seated, this happened to me.I cleaned the contacts again with 300 grit paper placed it back on the CDE and masking taped it firmly at a very slight angle, solved my problem.
Robert