[Kevin1990]

Hey guys,

I think i´ve been asking this before....but i´m not sure.

Is it correct that Chrysler made a better software for the early versions of the Ultradrive?

I just recognized that there´s abig difference of shift qulity between my 1st gen minivan and the Saratoga.
Of course, also different gear ratios, but the whole "life" of the trans seems different.

Somebody told me there´s a newer software, that could be used on earlier models.
True?

If yes, is there any chance to get a updated TCM in the U.S. or CAN?

Thank you!
Kevin

 

[ImperialCrown]

The updatable TCM came about in 1994. It can be recognized by heat sink fins on its housing. You need one of these to start out with.
Previous TCMs were smooth sided housings and basically throw-away.
Look on the finned TCM for a Chrysler 'Authorized software update' sticker or underhood for the 'Authorized vehicle modification' sticker. These may or may not be there. Not having the stickers present, doesn't mean that the updates haven't been done over the life of the vehicle.
A DRB or other good scan tool that can read the internal TCM part # electrically will let you know if you have the latest and greatest software in your TCM. It really can make a big difference in shift/drive behavior.
See Chrysler TSB # 18-24-95 for the update specifics. It covered 1989-1995 A-604/41TE/42LE transaxle control modules. The minivan is an AS body. A dealer should be able to check and perform the bulletin.
2010-11-03_173758_18-24-95-2.doc

 

[Kevin1990]

Thank you very much!

Yes, i still got the old version of the TCM.
I´ll visit our local dealer today, but Chrysler became extremly rare here in Styria (AUT).

The dealers do not offer things like ATF+4, transmission oil filters or so any longer.

 

[Kevin1990]

OK, little update from the dealer...

Updates on the TCM are only aviable for 1996 or later models...

Is there any chance to get an already updated TCM or does it need a the new software after installing?

 

[valiant67]

Updates should still be available for any of these though maybe your dealer doesn't have the proper tool for the older car.
However, by the time you bought a reflashable TCM through the dealer and had it loaded with the latest software, it would likely be several hundred dollars.
I'd play the waiting game until one showed up on eBay already loaded with the latest software. If you post the vehicles, years and engine sizes someone can tell you what to look for.

 

[Kevin1990]

Updates should still be available for any of these though maybe your dealer doesn't have the proper tool for the older car.
However, by the time you bought a reflashable TCM through the dealer and had it loaded with the latest software, it would likely be several hundred dollars.
I'd play the waiting game until one showed up on eBay already loaded with the latest software. If you post the vehicles, years and engine sizes someone can tell you what to look for.

OK thank you!

Car is a 1992 EU Saratoga, 3.0

Thanks!