- 2,000
- 5,127
- 113
- Location
- Portland, OR
I agree. Have spares and carry tools.
Anyone scared of the engine computer really shouldn't be - they are ALL OVER ebay for anywhere from $100 to $500. They were used in many school bus applications and with a little work you too can learn to program them - or send it to me and I would be happy to program it for your engine information and maybe even a bit more power if you desire. I have my C7 programmed to the M-ATV 370 HP, 931 Ft/lb fuel map on a crate engine take-off ECU from 2017 and I keep my original as a backup.
Trans computer doesn't require programming - just install and go. Get one. You can buy them from many sources - my original had been replaced by the previous owner and the sticker indicated he bought it from Stewart and Stevenson so that's one option. I found a spare NOS off ebay.
Starter is an absolute must - can be had if you look around. Got mine for $275 shipped - brand new off a crate engine.
I don't carry an alternator. I do run the 4 battery setup and can charge them from solar if necessary (1600 watts on the roof). Even if you lose the alternator - those 4 AGM's can run the truck's basic electronics for the engine and trans computer, etc (kill all the lights) for a LOT of miles. Huge reserve capacity.
I also agree that something like the Carrington event is the most likely plausible scenario for disruption of electrical systems.
Keep the spare electronics in a Faraday bag.
Anyone scared of the engine computer really shouldn't be - they are ALL OVER ebay for anywhere from $100 to $500. They were used in many school bus applications and with a little work you too can learn to program them - or send it to me and I would be happy to program it for your engine information and maybe even a bit more power if you desire. I have my C7 programmed to the M-ATV 370 HP, 931 Ft/lb fuel map on a crate engine take-off ECU from 2017 and I keep my original as a backup.
Trans computer doesn't require programming - just install and go. Get one. You can buy them from many sources - my original had been replaced by the previous owner and the sticker indicated he bought it from Stewart and Stevenson so that's one option. I found a spare NOS off ebay.
Starter is an absolute must - can be had if you look around. Got mine for $275 shipped - brand new off a crate engine.
I don't carry an alternator. I do run the 4 battery setup and can charge them from solar if necessary (1600 watts on the roof). Even if you lose the alternator - those 4 AGM's can run the truck's basic electronics for the engine and trans computer, etc (kill all the lights) for a LOT of miles. Huge reserve capacity.
I also agree that something like the Carrington event is the most likely plausible scenario for disruption of electrical systems.
Keep the spare electronics in a Faraday bag.