The Novak Guide to the 

Wiring & PCM Programming Sources

pcm

A General Motors PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

This discussion is largely focused on GM systems because they are so configurable, desisrable and understood by the aftermarket. However, some of this information and these companies can assist with other systems.

We and our customers have been getting our socks blown off by modern, fuel injected engines. While wiring and electronics do add an extra dimension of cost and effort to a Jeep conversion, they add several levels of great benefits. Once one has seen the light of fuel injection, going back to a carburetor could be a difficult thing.

Suppliers

Novak and some other companies (see the list below) provide varying services.

Over the past several years, we have had the chance to work with a handful of good suppliers for wiring harnesses and PCM programming services. We offer this list of sources as information only, and the following should not be necessarily construed as an endorsement or guarantee of quality, as they are all independent companies. If you have a suggestion as to a company that's treated you right, suggest it and we'll add them below.

What a Programmer May Ask You

Because modern PCM's want to know vehicle speed, you will need to tell your programmer your tire size and axle ratio. You should also know your county or state emissions laws so the programmer and harness maker can know if they should configure for the secondary (post-catalytic) O2 sensors and for a fuel tank pressure sensor circuit (new in ~2004).

Your programmer will remove the VATS (Vehicle Anti Theft System) so the computer does not require a signal from the BCM or key to run. They will also want to know if you are running a manual or automatic transmission and which versions.

Performance Programming

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Need a cool way to attach your PCM to your Jeep? Our PCM mounting bracket assembly is the best thing to come along in this area for some time.

We are generally hesitant to alter the GM performance programming, as we believe it is the best engineered code in the automotive world. The power, fuel economy and engine longevity of GM motors attest to this. Some programmers can change variables of the code, but the basic maps should generally be left as GM has done them. Most programming claims for dramatically increased performance should be skeptically studied, and in light of the fact that even a mild GM V8 will put a serious grin on nearly any Jeep owner's face.

Harnesses

The great value in employing a professional is their familiarity and knowledge with GM harnesses. They can speed through the clipping, merging, truncating, labeling and simplifying of your harness. Some companies also supply new harnesses.

A supplier should also supply a few relays for the fuel pump, starter and possibly an electric fan. Many suppliers also offer a basic fuse panel and/or Power Distribution Center leads.

A harness builder may ask you where you want to install your computer; i.e., firewall? which side? under dash? etc.

 

Company Wiring harnesses PCM Programming Contact Info Notes Geographic
AllData no no www.alldatadiy.com Affordable subscriptions to wiring and mechanical information for your conversion engine and your Jeep. For the DIY harness modifier with a penchant for automotive electrical systems and some time and curiosity n/a
Fuel Injection Specialties new or reworked yes www.fuelinjection.com Well versed in programming and harnesses Texas
Hot Rod Wires new no www.hotrodwires.com Great new harnesses for Jeeps and other vehicles with a focus on pre-injection wiring system upgrades and conversions and torque converter control Texas
LT1Swap.com reworked yes www.lt1swap.com Excellent information and a site geared towards support of the hobbyist and even seasoned swap mechanic n/a
Megasquirt no roll-your-own www.msefi.com Megasquirt is to engine management as Linux is to personal computers. It is a roll-your-own style setup with a very active and smart community of enthusiasts. n/a
Novak Conversions reworked yes Harnesses & Programming GM to Jeep conversion gurus focusing on Gen III+ harnesses and computers Utah
Painless Wiring new no www.painlessperformance.com Mainstream maker of new harnesses for a variety of applications Texas