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Installed BOSS LCD Track Apps Cluster

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Best mod we have done to date. Picked up a Track Apps instrument panel cluster and installed it replacing the base analog POS cluster this car came with. Gives the driver a MUCH improved experience behind the wheel. The car being a '13 made the swap relatively easy. Here is what I bought and did all in my driveway:

2013 Boss LCD Cluster --- DR3Z10849CA
Cruise Switch --------------- SW-6911
Ford Rotunda scan tool----VCM II (clone) w/IDS v86 software

BOSS LCD Cluster
BossClust1_zpsd7157752.jpg
What I replaced!
IMG_7782_zps0fcc0d1f.jpg

Cruise Switch -Plug-n-play
cluster2_zpsa0106d27.jpg

VCMII (clone) I know I know....clone, but hey, it works great! LOL
ford-vcm-ii-diagnostic-tool-8.jpg



Total install took just over an hour because I was doing some unnecessary programming in IDS
here is a video......forgive the BOSS 320 at the end LOL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2jdCPx_Shs&list=UUEA2c3odMFfIcbV1v_0IvCg
 
Steve,
It does, but there are a few more things you need. A "black box" that a guy on MustangSource makes. Also, on the '11 & '12s your cruise buttons work different on this switch. If the cruise is no big deal, just the black box is the main difference. For swapping into a '13 or '14 no matter the model, it is easy.
 
What did the cost end up at?

cluster = $450
switch = $ 18
VCM II = $208 this will continue to be used tho. It allows me to do a lot of things that I couldnt have done before besides just programming - diagnostic testing, compression tests, any module replacements,reset DTC codes, key programming and PATS, a program to auto bleed the brake system and a lot more.
$675 is what I have in this mod
You can do it without the VCMII, but you have to pay a dealer to do the PATS relearn for your keys and you need a really cool dealer or technician that will manually enter Boss302 ASBUILT data into the ABS module.
If you install this cluster and just use it with a base model ASBUILT, it is a super basic LCD cluster. It does not have the Track Apps, no digital gauges. You use the VCMII to enter ASBUILT codes for the ABS module and it opens all of the menu and goodies. Some dealers would definitely frown upon that :)
People dont realize the cluster has everything in it already, opening it up is what the trick is. I don't know what they charge someone if they have a LCD cluster with no Track Apps, vs. one WITH Track Apps, but it literally takes about 3 minutes to enable it for your cluster.
 
Two more: why was the airbag light on and does the new cluster know your old odometer reading?

We have the passenger seat unplugged right now about to take it out to change the seat slider that is hanging. It will throw that light until we finish with the seat.
If you buy a cluster from Ford, they will program your mileage. If you buy a salvage cluster, you will need to send it off to one of many speedometer specialist that can set your odometer. If you send it off, it is usually $75 ish. Something to consider when buying salvage clusters. Many times, the salvage places are asking what they cost brand new!
The VCM II will NOT calibrate the odometer.
 
Thanks. It'd be nice if someone just made a plug n play gauge pod (OP/OT and something else) like the LS pod. I don't want all the "games" but I'd rather not tap into oil lines for senders if the computer already knows this stuff.
 
When the ecu gets flashed, supposedly the past couple of years they built flash counters in to the ecu to see if anyone has tuned their car. This is also another device that is claimed to be able to read them.
http://am.delphi.com/products/diagnostic-tools-and-equipment/Auto_IQ_Service_Solutions/North_America_Delphi_Diagnostics_Scan_Tool/

Also, did you get everything you needed with the VCMII kit like the IDS V84 software?
 
Yes, it can do everything the Delphi can. From what I understand, that unit is used for IDS when you use a hand held device opposed to a laptop. Yes, it came with V86 IDS software and a patch so there is no expiration.
I used it and it wifi'd to Ford or Motocraft, gave me security access to program my keys, it also downloaded updated module files from Ford via wifi and updated the modules. I actually flashed the PCM with a '13 Boss VIN that I had for a wrecked '13 Boss with all the options that I added. Trust me, I am NO computer geek at all and it scared the you know what out of me when it asked if I wanted to download the latest programming for Boss that I gave the VIN. It loaded it and updated it with no problems. We do run an aftermarket 93octane Tune from MPT. When I flashed the PCM, it flashed it to the Standard Boss, so I lost my tune. I hooked up my handheld SCT tuner, loaded the 93 tune back on and it is running great. I am actually good friends with the Owner of our dealership here. If I need warranty work, they would probably laugh since this car is NOTHING near what it was when we bought it. It began as a special order GT Track Pack car. After replacing every part of the interior now with salvaged OEM Boss parts (Recarors front/back, door panels, instrument cluster, dash panels, e-brake, steering wheel) and engine, (Intake Manifold, Alternator, Oil Cooler, Trans Cooler) Not to mention suspension upgrade, aluminum 1pc DS, GT quad exhaust, Off Road mid pipe......The tech would get it and ask what the hell is this! LOL You do see the "sessions" on the IDS menu when you hook up to the car. If you plan on keeping your warranty in tact, I would not reccomend the VCMII, but it is one heck of a tool to have in your garage! :)
 
I'm curious about this tools just for snooping around. It sounds like the real deal and it might be worth it just the abs bleeding and pats function. Just in case.
 
AZBoss.....PM sent

Here is some info on the Ford Rotunda Scantool
Ford VCM II Features:

1. The VCM II is the new Ford OEM diagnostic tool. It provides dealer-level diagnostics using the IDS software.
2. The VCM II is the brand new diagnostics interface from Ford for use with the Integrated Diagnostics Software (IDS).
3. The VCM II and IDS, provides full dealer diagnostic capabilities for most 16 pin Fords.
4. The VCM II will be required for part of new 2013 Ford vehicles and is backwards compatible with most 16 pin Fords.
It supports the Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM) and new Customer Flight Recorder (CFR).
5. The VCM II has shock resistant rubber ends, making it suitable for garage and workshop environments.
6. The CFR replaces the Vehicle Data Recorder (VDR).
7. The CFR is an optional cable that allows the VCM II to monitor and record live data streams. This provides an advantage for technicians when diagnosing


Ford VCM II Function:

* Automatic vehicle recognition
* Read & Clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
* Live Data-stream with Recording & Playback Functions for Main ECUs
* Guided Fault Finding
* New Software Re-flash for Existing ECUs
* Programming & Installation of new ECUs (PCM, ABS, Instrument Cluster, Air Bag, Fuel Pumps, etc.)
* Program New Keys
* Injector Coding
* Set, Adjust or Remove Speed Governors
* DPF Regeneration
* Brake Bleeding
* Steering Angle Resets
* All Other Dealer Functions
 
ArizonaBOSS said:
Can you link to where you purchased that VCMII kit? I want one.

Google VCMII, they all come from China start about $200 + shipping on up, go figure right? I'm not sure how long they to deliver to your door from there. Deerslayer, how long did it take to get it?
 
6 days from when I paid via Paypal. They say "clone" but I find it hard to believe that the ORIGINAL ones are also built in China. I am guessing black market would be more appropriate. It still works awesome, so I don't care what it is called.
 
136
16
MA
I have a couple thoughts/concerns on this for consideration. First is Ford charges a core on their clusters, and at would be dishonest to order one number (I.E. one for a boss) and return the incorrect cluster (the one from the GT) as a core. Secondly, and I admit that I am totally clueless on IDS and the software, but is using counterfeit software/tools to make adjustments with your 15k engine and airbag system a good idea?
 

Justin

Save the dawn for your dishes!!!
I am interested in what all it takes to make it work in a 12 boss. I would love to ditch the cluster I have now for the lcd screen. that and the tailights are what I love about the 13's oh and the 13's have a freaking USB PORT!!! my iSimple interface is a POS. Thanks ford

but I digress if you have a link to a full write up on how to do a swap for a 12 and the parts required please do share.
 

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