99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

Hi,

First of all, the boat runs great. As far as I can tell it has the MEFI3 module. I would like to connect a pc to get any trouble codes that may be present. The program and cable I bought did not work. So I tired to do the "flash codes" procedure and that did not work either. Yes, the ignition was on and engine was off. I could not even get a MIL indicator light to work at all. The service manual I have says the MIL should be lit whenever the ignition switch is on and the engine is stopped. I connected a 12v light but it never comes on. I have followed the troubleshooting procedure for "MIL not working" and it all passes. The only step left in the procedure is to replace the ECM, which I won't do to just get the diagnostics to work.

Now my question: Has anyone here been able to put their ECM into diagnostic mode for code retrieval (flash method) or even tried to connect a MIL (trouble ) lamp? Has anyone successfully retrieved trouble codes or done an ECM scan with pc? I am very familiar with scanning the GM automotive ECMs, but not for the boat.

Thanks
Gary
1999 Z202 5.7L EFI Bravo3

re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

Nevermind, I found the problem.

re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

'98 mariah shabah 180
5.7l 350 mag
Bravo III

re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

Oops.. lol! Was just reading your thread, interesting.. did you manage to pull error codes?


'98 mariah shabah 180
5.7l 350 mag
Bravo III

re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

Yes, I did. Much to my embarrassment, the problem was that the safety cutoff switch on the control unit was off. This is a new boat for me and I didn't realize it was off. Or that is was even there ;-)
There were no codes, just the "12". I was able to "flash" the code and monitor with the pc diagnostic app also.

Re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

What diagnostic software and cable are you using?

Re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

I am using the MEFI3 package from OBD Diagnostics: OBD Diagnostics

At $195, it's a bit pricey for what you get, but it is plug-and-play on a pc. In reality, the program (ScannerPro) is just a stripped down version of the free TunerPro RT program using a definition file for the MEFI ecu version I have ("mefi3.adx"), and an ordinary OBD1-USB cable ($20-$50 retail) with the special 10-pin connector (about $8 retail) that fits the Merc engine. The .adx file is the only thing unique and not commonly available for automotive use.

Re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

For those with the MEFI-3 ECU, I have written a scan app for PC that works well and probably better than the one selling for about $200. Also, mine is free.

Also, I have written a new MEFI3.adx file similar to the one that came with the app that I bought and made it compatible with the free program TunerProRT. The file is in the same folder referenced in the topic below.

See this topic: http://www.mariahownersclub.com/foru...html#post63849

Re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

I'm proud of myself when I remember to suck the black water tank BEFORE I leave the lake and this guy, casually, says " Oh yea, and I rewrote the programming on the scan tool and made it better". Talk about making a fella feel like a dumbarse !!
Thanks GaryDoug !!
I least I doubt have a FUNNY name !!!

oh hell......I do have a funny name.....

Re: 99 Merc 5.7 with Bravo 3 MEFI3 question
 

He he, I did a lot of software programming as part of my job before I retired a few years ago. Can't stop now! If I seem arrogant it is because...well I am ;-) At least that's what my wife says.