Computer, ECU, ECM, ECA?

[Adrian]

I have problems with the electronics of my boat since end of last season:

http://www.planetnautique.com/index....ighlight=start

Finally a mechanic who knows very well the GT40 is with the boat and yesterday I call him and told me he thinks the problem is in the computer. He has to check some things to be sure. I guess the computer is also called "processor", ECU, ECM or ECA isn't it?
I guess it's an expensive part but I can't see the price at skidim, anyone knows the price more or less?
Thanks

[DavidF]

RE: Computer, ECU, ECM, ECA?

I do not know, but would venture to guess about $800.00. Let us know when you find out.

[ihaveansv211]

Re: RE: Computer, ECU, ECM, ECA?

I do not know, but would venture to guess about $800.00. Let us know when you find out.

where did u pull that number from?

im guessing the computer ur talking about is called the ECU. it might just need a reset. i havent ever done it to a boat but i know on my car i just pull the ecu fuse and leave it out for 30 sec. the ecu might also be linked to the radio fuse. kinda weird but thats the way it is sometimes. if pulling the ecu fuse doesnt help, try pulling the radio fuse for 30 sec. u will lose ur radio presets but its a small price to help start ur boat

[DavidF]

RE: Re: RE: Computer, ECU, ECM, ECA?

From a quote I got for the ECU for my '95 TBI, Protec engine. The caveat is that I am going from a poor memory.

[lakejoe]

Just replaced this in my excalibur 330. Price was $700 for part. Installation is 10 minutes.

[Adrian]

Thank you for your answers.
Finally the problem was not in the computer.
I had a malfunction diode.
Much cheaper problem. :mrgreen: :mrgreen:

[DavidF]

Where was the bad diode? Alternator? Keyless ignition module?

[Adrian]

ummm, I'll ask the mechanic this weekend, I barely know what's a diode...

[DavidF]

OK, thanks. A diode is a electronic component that only lets the electrical current flow through it in one direction. Think of it as an electrical check valve.

[Laptom]

The altenator puts out an AC voltage, but the battery and all the components are DC. You can make a bridge of 4 diode's (they work like DavidF explains) which transfers the AC voltage to a "rough" DC voltage. Hope this helps a bit.

[DavidF]

Yes, the infamous Wheatstone Bridge. However, is one present in an alternator. I thought DC batteries can handle AC current to charge.

http://www.dwiarda.com/scientific/Bridge.html

[bobchris]

all alternator's have a rectifier bridge and diode trio to convert the alternating current produced to direct current output and a battery of any kind or size cannot take AC voltage directly to charge it, it has to be coverted by the charger

[DavidF]

Yes, I am sure you are correct. I think I was just equating, incorrectly, the pulsing DC current with AC current.

[Adrian]

DavidF, this is the bad diode: