The auto mechanics generally receive a common request from the clients to buy software for programming the Electronic Control Modules or ECM in the commercial trucks of current days. Most clients refer the engines like CAT, Volvo, International, Mack, Detroit, Cummins, and many more. Among all these, Cummins ECM programming is the most common.
However, before you delve into details on choosing the software best for programming, you should know the difference between programming and parameter changes. Here in this blog, you will understand ECM programming’s benefits, how it is done, and the terms related to ECM functioning.
What Is The Difference Between Parameter Change And ECM Programming?
Quite normally, when customers ask to perform “programming,” they are using the wrong terminology. If you are thinking of changing the parameters of the engine, it is not the programming. Some of the examples of parameters that you want to change include-
- Maximizing the road speed
- Adjusting the idle shutdown timer
- Maximizing the cruise control speed
- PTO settings
Apart, from these, there are more than hundreds of parameters, which you can easily set on the modern electronic engines found inside the commercial trucks. Apart from this, several tools offer a wide range of functions that include OEM software to the aftermarket software. You will get a huge difference in these aftermarket-programming kits available in the market.
Another question the mechanic generally asks the clients is the ability to program the injectors. For such reasons, the options are quite limited in the process. While OEM software will perform great for programming the injectors, the buying price is high, and the annual fees will also add up to it.
How to program the ECM properly
The car owners can reprogram the ECM, but and the end, they come up with an issue. The most common reason behind it is that they are programming it in the wrong manner. In the sophisticated trucks available in the market, there is lots of traffic on the truck’s connector. It includes the GPS, cab controller, ABS, transmission, engine, and lots more. While you are programming with a dash connector’s help, it is not a good process to do unless you are fusing the ECMs on the vehicle.
On the other hand, the best process to program the ECM is to bypass the data-link and then connect it straight with the ECM. It will help you to reprogram the ECM both on the vehicle and also on the workbenches. Another way to reprogram the ECM is to back up the ECM before you make any changes. Most tools provide this ability to create the backup called the image, order, template, or something else.
Reprogramming the engine ECM
Suppose you are thinking of doing something more than just program injectors and changing the engine’s parameters. In that case, you should know in detail about the commercial engine and discuss the various option, pricing and availability. The best way to do the ECM programming on commercial vehicles is with OEM software that the providers use.
If you want to reprogram the ECM or want your truck to perform better, it is very important to bring the truck to the auto mechanic or consult with the professional online. ECM programming helps to boost up the performance of the vehicle and make it run very smoothly.
