Hello Gang!

Recently acquired a 1999 Ranger XLT 4x4 A/T as a project truck. It's a little funky because it was originally a 4.0L, but the previous owner bought it with a blown engine to swap in the 3.0L Vulcan from his wrecked Ranger.

When I try to start it up, I get cranking but no spark, and the THEFT light flashes rapidly, then returns PATS code 1-6 (no communication with PCM). I also note there's no CEL when the key is turned to ON, which would seem to confirm a PCM issue.

I've checked the various PCM-related fuses and relays in the cab and PDB, and all seems fine there. I checked the power pins (71 and 97) of the PCM connector for 12V, and that's good too. I even pulled the PCM out and popped the top off to make sure the board and caps look good--didn't see anything obviously wrong.

Is there anything else I can do to test the PCM, or confirm it's the problem? Could a bad PATS module or transceiver cause the same code? As far as I know, the PCM is original to the truck (i.e., for its original 4.0L)--could that be the problem? The PCM's label reads EEC-V ML2-8C1A 8L15 LYC3, if that helps. Do I need to swap it for a PCM from a 3.0L 4x4? And if I do that, what do I need to consider in terms of reprogramming, new keys, etc.?

Any pointers in the right direction would be most welcome!
KellyV

 

Welcome to the forum

Original PCM should have this part number XL5F-12A650- ?? or ???
Pic of 1999 Ranger PCM: https://www.ebay.ca/itm/314018919903

First character is Year
(F8 = 1998)
X = 1999
Y = 2000
1 = 2001

next two are Model
L5 = Ranger or Mazda B-series
F = Ford electronic department

Center is part number
12A650 = PCM in ANY YEAR and ANY MODEL, generic part number Ford has used since 1985 or so for any engine computer, still uses it

??? = revision/software, no cross reference for these, but denotes engine size and manual or automatic trans, also FED or Calif. emissions

If you post the above ID I can look it up to see what engine it was for

PATS Code 16 means the PCM and PATS module above glove box can not "talk", the PCM and PATS module are a Matched set, "married" at the factory when installed
So most likely previous own did change PCM and not PATS module
Only 1999/2000 have the separate PATS module above glove box

Best bet is to find a 1999/2000 3.0l automatic Ranger/B-series and get the PCM and PATS module, just plug and play
Also get key cylinder and key if possible
2WD or 4x4 doesn't matter

Transceiver doesn't matter as long as it works, its not a "programmed' part

Spark should work, so there are other issues
And of course CEL should work

PATS disables fuel injectors as the main anti-theft deterrent, but also fuel pump and starter, but easy to by-pass these last two
But spark is not disabled

 

Thanks Ron, fantastic info!

The rest of the PCM label was a bit greasy and hidden by the rubber gasket. Here's the other line: XL5F-12A650-LD

I think the guy I bought the truck from might actually still have his previous Ranger, so I might be able to get him to pull its PATS module (and PCM, if he didn't swap it). The one key I have does work in the doors and ignition (aside from the PATS issue, of course), so I presume it's original to this truck. The 1-6 error would make sense if he swapped the PCM but not the PATS module. And would be an easy fix, which is music to my ears!

Thanks again!
KellyV

 

Yes, that number does show its for a 1999 3.0l Ranger
Electronic Control Module, 6-183 (3.0L), flex fuel (US market), 4x4, AT, low emissions, ID XL5F-LD

You will get a code for "no fuel sensor", its because its a Flex Fuel Computer, but no driving issue on gasoline

Yes, see if you can get the PATS module and the key and cylinder, so you can get it running
You can deal with the locks later, couple of options once its running and driveable

 

Checks out--I got in touch with the seller and he confirmed he did swap the PCM, but he wasn't aware of the PATS module so that wasn't swapped (and he never got as far as starting it up after the engine swap, so he didn't come across the issue). Unfortunately he no longer has the donor truck--he's going to try to track it down. So best case, he finds it and I can get the PATS module, key, and lock cylinders. Worst-case, I find a matching 1999-2000 3.0L A/T PCM/PATS set at the salvage yard and swap them in, and then get a locksmith to program a couple new keys to that with the existing ignition cylinder. Hopefully that's possible?

Again, thanks for the help, Ron! I'm sure I'll come across more questions as I go. :)
KellyV