Swapping Out Trans Computers

I have a 92 Caravan with the a604. I plan on doing a filter and fluid
change, since I just bought the car after putting in another engine.
Original one threw a rod. My question is: The trans computer on the
vehicle is dated 5/97. I just picked up a spare at the boneyard that's
dated 6/01. Is it a good idea to swap out units, seeing that the newer
unit has fresh updates? (At least newer than 97)

Thanks for the help!

 

If it currently shifts OK leave it alone!

Richard.

 

The '97 computer is already considerably better than the original '92
unit. The '01 computer is likely better still. It couldn't hurt.

 

Many Thanks! That's what I was thinking, but just wanted to be
sure....

 

I found that when I put a 91 transmission in my 90 Accord it would not shift
right until I went back to the junk yard and pulled out the 91 transmission
computer and swaped it for the 90 computer.

If it works in the mini-van great, but be sure to hold onto the old one if
the computer does not match up to the older transmission.


Richard.

 

....except we're not talking about Hondas here.

 

Except that you have no experience switching Chrysler transmission computers
of different years with different transmissions. I stand by my note of
caution.

Richard.

 

"If it ain't broke, dont fix it".

 

An interesting thing happens when you assume, Richard, and that is that
you wind up saying stuff that isn't factual (i.e., it's wrong). That's
what happened in this case, for I *do* have experience switching Chrysler
transmission computers of different years. As far as the computers are
concerned, there are no "different transmissions" -- virtually any
year/any application TCM will run virtually any year Chrysler 4-speed
automatic transmission.

....which is based on completely irrelevant futzing around with Hondas.

 

It is also perfectly within the realm of possibility that the CaravanGuy's
1997
trans computer has been firmware updated to a NEWER firmware version than
the 2001 trans computer out of the boneyard.

If it was me rather than spending the money on the computer at the
wrecknig yard, I would have driven into the dealership and had them
flash my existing computer to the most current firmware, which is
certainly newer than 2001.

Ted

 

I STILL love the FIDO tagline:
"if it works, rip it apart and find out why"