Thread: Need Compatible Computer

Hi Guys,

I am looking for a standalone ecm that can control the 3800. (just engine management) or could I delete the trans options from stock ecm?

I have used an AEM behind a 3800 manual fiero before, but it is a bit overkill for a normal horsepower setup (the advanced options for doing ignition help squeeze out a few HP passed 6k rpms)

The factory ecu will work fine. A completely stock GTP or GT pcm from a 98 grand prix will (sorta) work on a manual transmission car without any changes. The pcm should be tuned for proper VSS input... without it you could run into a stumbling and stalling issue. You can also have the PCM tuned to retain a functioning check engine light.

What about the 00-02 computers? I am asking because I will be running an ecm and a standalone tcm.

What transmission? 6Txxe? Factory obd2 PCMs are pretty awesome when it comes to transmissions... you can use a 4T60e, 4L60e, 4T80e, 4T65e all behind factory pcms. If you are going to try to use some sort of aftermarket transmission box for stupid features like tapshift or whatever, it is a complete waste of time tap shifting a 3 speed.

It really doesnt matter what PCM you use if you have a tuner work on it, the 00+ files are a bit more powerful on a very small level, but they sometimes require security removal/tuning.

4t80e. I really don't want l start an argument on what trans is better... this is the trans I wna try at least. I thought the shift solenoids were backwards and the pcm couldn't run the 4t80e?

backwards, but that is nothing a relay can not solve. And it is only one solenoid that is backwards.

There is a writeup on how to convert a 80e to run a 65e pcm somewhere on the internet. There were 3 main things that needed to be helped, but otherthan that, it has been done before.

And yes, the 4t80e is a fairly huge waste of time.... but if you want to give it a try go ahead. I ran a bone factory stock 4t65e for 2 years and 25k miles behind a 425+whp turbo 3800.... constantly abused as well.