Bruce MacKay

After the better part of a year, Junior now has the MSM turbo in and running in my 96 M. I've had a Link ECU for some time, so we're now fiddling with settings to optimize fuel map. Car runs - reliably - but need to reduce fuel flow a bit to remove billowing clouds of smoke when started from cold. We know smoke isn't oil or coolant. Seems to be super-rich mixture that we're trying to fix.

ECU keypad is - "wonky". Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. We've got a notebook, and have had intermittent success with it. My confidence in tuning this, frankly, is not high - I'd really rather prefer NOT grenading the engine.

Is a wonky keypad a typical Link issue? I'd really rather not have to try to either build (megasquirt) or buy (Hydra) another ECU...but don't want an overly-inquisitive cop pulling me over and citing me for an emissions violation (which, where I live, will trigger an emissions test that I can't pass with an aftermarket ECU).

Thanks!

Bruce MacKay
Turbo Rookie

jrlara93

More than likely the ribbon cable needs to be replaced.

Bruce MacKay

Am I correct in assuming that replacing the ribbon cable is something a computer repair shop could handle?

Links are now...well..."last-generation", and getting a Serial Link to be able to talk to my netbook took months (not to mention the cost from NZ to here).

Thanks again!

Bruce

m2cupcar

iTrader: (5)

I've replaced mine using some computer ribbon cable and connectors purchased online. It was $10 delivered. I can't recall exactly which cable connectors, but got the into from miata.net with a search.

jrlara93

Yes, if its a real repair shop not a box store, it should have everything needed to make-up a new one. Just pull the old one out and take it with you so you get the right pieces. It shouldn't be more than $5.

Bruce MacKay

Thanks!