1986 TPI Engine - Power Cutoff Switch
 

Hello Folks,

I need some opinions regarding the ECM used with my 1986 Corvette TPI engine I have installed in my 1947 Plymouth.

I have a cutoff switch installed which completely disconnects all battery power to the car. I am a firm believer in installing and using cutoff switches on all my hobby cars. However, this my first hobby car to feature any sort of computer-controlled engine management.

Does removing the power to the ECM reset all of the engine settings? If so, how long after restoring power and re-starting the engine does it take for the ECM to 'relearn' the correct settings? Can regularly removing and restoring power to the ECM cause any harm? I've never noticed any obvious problems upon initial startup, other than an occasional slight stumble when still cold.

I am considering redoing my cutoff switch setup to include a small 3-amp bypass, which would allow current to flow to the ECM (and the stereo, and the clock) even when the cutoff switch is engaged.

Any thoughts or opinions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

Cheers,

Ken in SSF
1947 Plymouth Special Deluxe Club Coupe

I read somewhere that it takes 15 minutes running to "relearn".

Your idea to keep power to ECM and radio/clock is the best bet. I think resetting the clock/radio presets every time I drove the car would drive me bananas. But that's just me.

It is driving me bananas - sort of - but the cutoff switch is something that I've always used, and it's a hard habit to break - especially after you have seen a friend's car go up in smoke due to an electrical fire.

Cheers,

Ken in SSF
1947 Plymouth Special Deluxe Club Coupe

You can buy them with the fuse included for exactly this purpose.

http://www.wirthco.com/images/products/20309_LR.jpg

Hello joe,

I've been looking for one of those fuse holders with the weatherproof cover.
Would you happen to have a link to a vendor/supplier that carries them?

Thanks.

Cheers,

Ken in SSF
1947 Plymouth Special Deluxe Club Coupe

Many vendors sell them. Here's a partial list:

http://www.google.com/products/catal...d=0CNsBEPMCMAU