PCM reset tools

[mypov]

Anyone know of a cheap alternative to Snapon or MAC for this?
I work in an automotive/heavy equipment shop in Northern Canada. Closest dealer to us is a Ford Dealership 300KM away (about 3 hrs drive)...We have in the last 2 months only had 2 needs for resetting PCM's - so boss has decided it is not worth paying the snap on or MAC price for the computer capable of this, nor the monthly/yearly program upgrades. I know OTC makes a diagnostic reader capable of this, but the boss does not have this one (and doesn't wish to upgrade) we can read codes, live data, and reset (OBDII reader) it is quite nice, but not the most advanced.

Anyway, just wondering if there is a cheaper way to go where we would be able to reset PCM's without spending an unjustifiable amount of money...
Thanks...
Have a great weekend all!

 

[chadster1]

Anyone know of a cheap alternative to Snapon or MAC for this?
I work in an automotive/heavy equipment shop in Northern Canada. Closest dealer to us is a Ford Dealership 300KM away (about 3 hrs drive)...We have in the last 2 months only had 2 needs for resetting PCM's - so boss has decided it is not worth paying the snap on or MAC price for the computer capable of this, nor the monthly/yearly program upgrades. I know OTC makes a diagnostic reader capable of this, but the boss does not have this one (and doesn't wish to upgrade) we can read codes, live data, and reset (OBDII reader) it is quite nice, but not the most advanced.

Anyway, just wondering if there is a cheaper way to go where we would be able to reset PCM's without spending an unjustifiable amount of money...
Thanks...
Have a great weekend all!

Are you talking about re-flashing the PCM?

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

To clear check engine light? I am sure what he is asking either.

 

[SpiderGearsMan]

resetting ? like the oil change lamp ?

 

[jjjrmx5]

Are you looking at software/hardware that will only do Ford products, or are you trying to find something that will work for all vehicles, foreign and domestic?

CEL and error codes are standardized in many cases (but certainly not all as there are many that are mfgr specific) due to ODB II, but once you get into doing ABS, ,ECU and other work, the codes become far more advanced and mfgr specific thus requiring higher $$ equipment to read, clear and reset the codes and parts.

Everything from cutting and coding keys and immoblizers to aiming headlights to retracting brake caliper pistons can require an advanced software code system and plugging into the ECU.

 

[mypov]

Sorry, should've been more clear - So, of the two examples I was speaking of: 1 2008 F150 presented with running problem, check engine light comes on, scanned the truck, cleared the codes (can't remember the number, but had to do with low idle) - the boss has an OTC scanner able to communicate with vehicles of most makes, can clear DTC's, and is able to display live data...Back to the story, checked Mitchel and there is a TSB indicating that the problems presented can potentially be cured by resetting the PCM (power control Module) or main computer chip. Example number 2 - a 2004 Chevy 1500 same presents with a running problem when cool, checked TSB's in Mitchel and again indicated potential possibility that a PCM reset may assist in drivability problem...

Was wondering if there are any less expensive ways of doing this, I believe it is called "programming" but all I know about these things is snap on and mac (as well as OTC's) scan tools with this ability are WAY to expensive and not worth their costs for our shop. Wondered if there was something cheaper with the ability to reset or re program the PCM in atleast the major 3.
Thanks