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we installed a different rebuilt 5.9L cummins engine in a dodge truck, the first one blew a hole thru the block and computer. Now after intall it runs for one to two seconds and dies. Scanner says SKIM KEY ERROR, what can we do to get the computers to read with each other without purchasing a new $2400 ecm?
Country: United StatesMake: DodgeModel: RAM 2500 4x4Year: 2003Engine: 5.9L Cummins
Hello welcome to JustAnswer, My name is XXXX XXX I will be assisting you. The issue isn't that the 2 computers aren't seeing each other but not seeing the correct info.. You need to have your ECM programmed to the vehicle.. This will need to be performed with a DRBIII or similar tool.. The DRBIII is what I use at the dealership for these vehicles.. I understand that it will not start and it never will until it's programmed. A dealership only charges 1Hr to perform this and is usually under 100.00If you need anymore assistance, feel free to askBrad
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Our mechanic told us the Dodge dealer in Grand Junction, CO told him that the ECM is not "reprogramable" that it can only be done with a new ecm, not a used one? I did call cummins before we purchased this builder motor and computer, they said it was the same year and same specs and should work just fine. I like your answer, is there any more information I need to approach our mechanic and Dodge dealer with to make this a seamless operation?
Thankyou
I went and dug up some info for you.. Click HERE to view a ECM update process.. Make sure to look at this:16. For 2003 and later modules, determine if the vehicle is equipped with aSKIM (Security Key Immobilizer Module) module.a. If the vehicle is equipped with SKIM, the DRBIII® must be used to transfer the VIN andSecurity Key from the SKIM to the ECM. This is accomplished by selecting "CumminsECM Replaced" under the "Miscellaneous" section of the "SKIM" menu.b. If the vehicle is not equipped with SKIM, the VIN must be manually programmedby selecting "CM845 Check VIN" under the "Miscellaneous" section of the"Cummins Controller (ECM/ENGINE)" menu.**Tell the dealership they need to perform this..Thanks!!Brad
Experience: 15 Yrs Chrysler/Dodge Technician..ASE Master Certified(L-1)
So after two days of waiting on the Chrysler/Dodge Dealer in Grand Junction...(XXX) XXX-XXXX Service Manager Mark Stouffer.
They say that they are unable to reprogram the ECM due to the fact that this ECM was setup with a SKIM, while the truck was not.
I thought that the directions you proved showed for either scenario. We are still searching for anyone with the correct answers and abilities to resolve this issue.
Jud Shoup
(XXX) XXX-XXXX
The ECM you installed will never work then.. You will need one without SKIM. If the ECM is equipped with SKIM then it needs to see a SKIM module and the correct PIN in the SKIM to allow the vehicle to start. Your vehicle doesn't have SKIM which will never allow the vehicle to start.. You need to get a ECM that is NOT equipped with SKIM in order for your vehicle to start..
Before I purchased the motor and computer I contacted cummins with the numbers of the old computer and the numbers of the new computer, they spent about fifteen minutes verifying everything and said that it will work.
Now my only option is to spend another $2400 for a new ECM?!
May I have the last 8 of your VIN?
3G840929
What about installing a SKIM key Module and gatting a key made for the computer on our truck and tape the key to the dash?
I ran your VIN and you should have(NNN) NNN-NNNNB for your ECM... And it changes to R5191829AA.. I don't think that you can add a SKIM module as your vehicle is not equipped with the wiring to complete it.. The ECM you used will not work with your vehicle.. The part number for SKIM and Non-SKIM ECM's are the same part number, but the vehicle the ECM came from a vehicle with SKIM.. You need a ECM without SKIM in order to allow your vehicle to start.. Once the software is burnt into the ECM it can't be changed...
I wish we would not have towed the truck to the Dodge dealer, waited Two days, paid that dealer for nothing, then Towed it back to the other mechanic based off of the information you provided me.
That cost us an additional $450 and time, to now buy a new computer.
I'm sorry but I didn't know and you didn't know that is was a SKIM ECM.. The SKIM and Non-SKIM ECM are the same part number..