Some of you might know that I have a genuine Ford VCM II OBD connector, the one the dealerships use. Once or twice a year, I get a short-term Motorcraft IDS software license so I can hook up to the car and do the diff oil service and otherwise check to see that the electronics are all happy. This time, when I got the system all loaded up and connected, I also updated the ECU software to the latest version. I didn't expect much difference; I was curious, more than anything.
Well, I have to say "It's different". Really different. Piston slap on my engine has always been annoying and loud. It's pretty much gone now - it's there if you listen for it, but it's not as obtrusive as it used to be by a long ways. The engine runs smoother too. Nothing major, but the flat spots in the torque curve are gone. It's a different feel from what it was. There seems to be a bit more torque lower down, but it could be an illusion. Anyway, I like it.
So, for those of you who want to reduce piston slap, Ford has released a new software version for at least the 2016's that reduces it. Getting it installed is another matter. Unless you invest in a lot of expensive tools, it's not a DIY job. Independent shops can do it, and of course a dealer can, although the cost of installation won't be covered by warranty. And before anyone asks, it's way beyond anything that Forscan can do.
Well, I have to say "It's different". Really different. Piston slap on my engine has always been annoying and loud. It's pretty much gone now - it's there if you listen for it, but it's not as obtrusive as it used to be by a long ways. The engine runs smoother too. Nothing major, but the flat spots in the torque curve are gone. It's a different feel from what it was. There seems to be a bit more torque lower down, but it could be an illusion. Anyway, I like it.
So, for those of you who want to reduce piston slap, Ford has released a new software version for at least the 2016's that reduces it. Getting it installed is another matter. Unless you invest in a lot of expensive tools, it's not a DIY job. Independent shops can do it, and of course a dealer can, although the cost of installation won't be covered by warranty. And before anyone asks, it's way beyond anything that Forscan can do.
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