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ECM password issue

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Old Nov 6, 2019 | 01:50 PM
  #1  
Lord Noshbat's Avatar
Lord Noshbat
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Default ECM password issue

Hi folks.
I'm having a lot of grief trying to get a new (second hand) ECM to function. I have followed the method of firing bike up, cutting out and giving the fault code P1009. This should then enter into the teach mode for the ECM to learn password so it can communicate with the other ignition/alarm components. Bike is 2004 1200 Sportster. Have replace the MAF sensor and have fault finding to trace issue back to the ECM.
Help! Not much hair left to pull out
 
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Old Nov 7, 2019 | 07:02 AM
  #2  
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60Gunner
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When installing a new ignition(ICM) or ECM on a security-equipped Harley there is a "Password Learn" procedure that must be performed. This applies to all Twin Cam and V-Rod models with factory security but may also apply to Twin Cam's with EFI. The TSM/TSSM and ECM have "learned" passwords that synchronize the control module with several other components. Once you remove a component from this chain the module shuts down and won't start. This is reported to only occur with EFI models but the new 2004 carbureted models demonstrate the same shut-down when changing the ignition module.

Once you have installed the ignition module and reconnected the battery, perform the starting sequence as normal. The engine will cough once in an effort to start but will fail when the module shuts off the fuel.

Special Note: During the Password Learning procedure the ignition will remain in the "On" position for an extended period of time (30+ minutes). While "On", power is supplied to the headlight thus draining the battery. If the battery charge drops below a certain level during the Password Learn procedure the process will cease and you will have to start over. To avoid this connect a trickle charger to the battery throughout the procedure.


TSM/TSSM ECM Password Learn Procedure
Step Action Confirmation Notes

1 Set Run switch to Run

2 Turn Ignition key On-Off-On-Off-On-Off-On and then toggle
the Left Turn Signal switch twice.

3 Turn Ignition key Off-On Verify the Check Engine lamp and Security Lamp illuminate
briefly and then turn off Security lamp will not illuminate on non-security
(TSM) Twin Cam models.

4 Attempt normal start one time. Engine starts and stalls immediately. check engine
lamp stays on. Password has not been learned and sets trouble code P1009, thus stopping fuel
flow.

5 Wait 10 seconds Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models. ECM enters Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the ignition or disrupt power.

6 Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed.

7 Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models.

8 Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed. Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the
ignition or disrupt power.

9 Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON Security Lamp remains lit for V-Rod and TC88 with TSSM. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models.

10 Wait until Security Lamp turns off or a minimum of 10 minutes has passed. Password Learning mode for 10 minutes. Do Not cycle the ignition or disrupt power.

11 Quickly (within 2 seconds) turn Ignition key OFF-ON Security Lamp light and then turn off. Lamp will not be on for TC88 TSM models.

12 Turn Ignition switch OFF. Wait 15 seconds. Turn Ignition switch ON and start engine to confirm the Password Learn Procedure is successful. Engine will start and remain running. If engine immediately stalls and fails to restart the Password Learning mode was not successful. Start over at step 1.

The above steps must be timed and performed exactly as described. Any deviation will require you to start again from step 1.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2019 | 09:22 AM
  #3  
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Lord Noshbat
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Thanks 60Gunner that is the exact process I have been following. Tried it several times. Both with and without the alarm system disabled. The ECM unit came from a properly running bike and in the description it listed the year and model I'm trying to fix. It does the start fail, fault code P1009 part of the procedure and i have done the learn mode. Waiting for the security light to go out and waited 10mins between each on/off turn of the ignition.
feel very much like I'm going round in circles
 
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Old Nov 7, 2019 | 09:29 AM
  #4  
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60Gunner
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From: Dubuque, IA
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Might want to look at the tssm then. Are you sure you're following that to the letter including the times between each?
and it's an ICM from an 04 to 06 you got correct?
Did you start with a fully charged battery and have a tender or trickle charger hooked up while you did this learn process? Because the battery will drain quickly with the key/headlight on and cause it to fail too.

Personally I wouldn't have wasted my time/money on a stock ICM. Especially a used one. It could be bad too.
The Twintec TC88A is a much better option as it allows you run custom timing maps and bump the rev limiter up. Less prone to failure too.
 

Last edited by 60Gunner; Nov 7, 2019 at 09:34 AM.
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Old Nov 9, 2019 | 01:55 PM
  #5  
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I have followed the instructions and times. I also have the battery connected to a booster charger.
reckon I might have to go down the aftermarket ECM route
 
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