Minimum Sensors required on an E38 (BBC)

[NateD4]

Does anyone know how few sensors an E38 can be set to run?

I'd like to control an older big block chevy with converted fuel injection. I was thinking injectors, MAP sensor, throttle position, crank trigger and cam trigger. Does anyone now if that is enough sensors to run an engine from an E38?

[Dieselman]

You will need a IAT sensor. It is used to calculated the intake valve temp that a lot of the tables are based on.

[Taz]

Hello NateD4,

Unless an A6 transmission (6L80 / 6L90) is mandatory in your plans, I would recommend using an LS1-B style PCM. I enjoy working with Gen IIIs, just starting to do some Gen IV conversions - and the E38 can be unfriendly if all inputs are not mutually compatible. The OS, APP, and throttle body (DBW) must be compatible. There is no way to run a DBC throttle body with an E38.


Regards,
Taz

[NateD4]

This will be for a hilborn manifold converted to EFI.

The best I can do sensor wise is

TPS
IAT
OAT
MAP
Cam position
Crank position
Oil press
Oil temp
Fuel pressure
And input from a T56

Can anyone suggest an ECM model other than an E38?

How hard would it be to recompile something for it?

[Taz]

I had suggested an LS1-B style PCM in post #3. You won't get an ECM (E38 / E67 / etc.) to work with your described setup - as it amounts to a DBC system.


Regards,
Taz

[ScarabEpic22]

I agree with Taz, if you want to run an old school cable throttle setup, then a 99-02 LS1B 512kb PCM is your best bet. The 99-02 512kb PCM leaves the Custom OS option open whereas the 03-07 LS1B 1MB PCM is more restriced for COS options (plus are all electronic throttle).

Ive seen a cable driven E38, think it was a GMPP ECM but I wouldnt recommend it when using a LS1B PCM is so much easier.

[Taz]

Hello Erik,

I think GMPP has a Gen IV controller that is both DBC and DBW compatible - but I believe these are Marine type or MEFI type controllers. Remember seeing these somewhere ...


Regards,
Taz

[NateD4]

I'm not familiar with the LS1 ecms do you have any models and years? Or even GM part #s?

[Taz]

Now you have me interested ... many of the Forum members (including myself) would have learned "how to tune" on the LS1 / LS6 Gen III type controller (LS1-A and LS1-B in EFILive speak) - which seemed to be the starting point for the currently popular aftermarket software companies (i.e. EFILive, HPTuners, LS1 Edit).

The evolution to the Gen IV type controllers (E38 / E67 / E37 / E78/ etc.) has caused "growing pains" for the aftermarket software companies, and a very steep learning curve for previously "experienced" tuners.

If you have yet to venture into tuning, starting with a Gen IV controller will be a challenge.

Take a look at the thread below ...

http://forum.efilive.com/showthread.php?14200-PCM-Conversion-Information

The spreadsheets have Gen III PCM service numbers and OS listed.


Regards,
Taz

[NateD4]

What's the difference between the E38 & E37 and E67 and E78?

Is there a listing for the Gen IVs?

I am getting ready to tune an E67 and one other as of yet undecided.

Maybe I'll have to buy an E67 and tear it down to see how it works.