What does a newcomer need to know to get a PCM set up for an LS swap?
- Pick the right controller for the engine's generation (24x → Gen III such as the 0411; 58x → E38/E67). See which ECM.
- Know what's programmed in it before first start. Starting an unconfigured swap risks damage.
- Wire in the OBD-II connector — you need it to flash the controller and for diagnostics later.
- Get a swap calibration. - VATS/anti-theft disabled: the recipient vehicle doesn't have the matching theft hardware.
- Diagnostics matched to the hardware: rear O2 and catalyst, EGR, canister purge, fuel-tank pressure, and alternator codes the swap harness doesn't wire.
- Correct VIN, electric-fan temperatures set, and the speed limiter raised on retailer-programmed units.
- Engine and driveline data: injector flow, VE, spark, axle ratio, and whether EGR, EVAP and secondary air are present.
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See the swap tune checklist.
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