2002 Other Chrysler Models v10 Dodge simple tune up

MWYATT

MEMBER
2002 CHRYSLER

Engine Mechanical problem
2002 Other Chrysler Models Four Wheel Drive Automatic 80000. Miles

Ok,
So my dodge 2500 SLT was running rough and I thought I might take it to the dealer for a check up. It seemed like it was running on 9 cylinders rather rough as it were. The first call I recived was that the compression check of the cylinders was 9 were 150 and one was 120#. Suspected a cracked head he said and that the bill was to be $5000.00 I told them to do a real tune up and then let me know. The next day I received a cal saying the tune up did well, however now the alternator was not charging properly. I, of course indicated that it was working well when gave it to them so I told them that the mechanic must have left a wire off or made a loose connection or something. Try again as it were.
The next day they call and indicate that the PCM is bad and it was causing the problem. So, I am thinging the mechanic did something in the tune up process to short the PCM. After all this was just a tune up. Ok The tune up is about $850.00 but the new PCM is $750.00 + labor. I told the service rep that the mechanic screwed up and shorted the PCM while doing a tune up.
My question is what are the chances this happens. The failure/replacement rate of a PCM are very low so I indeed suspect mechanic error.
Please let me know what may have happened while this tune up was being done.
Much appreciated,

Mike in Alaska

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Hi Mike:

The chances are slim that he caused a problem with the PCM; however, I can tell you that the alt is regulated through the PCM. A charging problem may seem llike an alt until it's bench tested and determined to be good. The next place to point a finger is the PCM. Regardless, is it possible that the PCM was causing your rough running problem would be my question. That is possible. Also, a 30PSI variation in compression doesn't mean the head is cracked. It could cause a very mild problem, butit would be one that would be hard to recognize. Again, I wish I could give you a better answer, but after thinking about your question for some time, I can't imagine the tune-up process caused PCM failure.

If you have any other specific questions, let me know.

Joe