Figure 1 – Honda Engine Computer
Figure 2 – Honda ECU Top Cover Removal
Looking to boost your Honda’s performance? Installing a Chipped Obd2 Honda Ecu is a popular modification for enthusiasts seeking to unlock hidden power and optimize engine parameters. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the stock MCU (Microcontroller Unit) in 1996 to 2001 Honda OBD-II ECUs with a performance-enhancing chip. Please note that this procedure requires a degree of technical skill and familiarity with electronics. Proceed with caution and ensure you have the correct tools and a suitable workspace.
- Accessing the ECU and Identifying the Stock MCU. Begin by opening the top cover of your Honda’s Engine Control Unit (ECU). Figure 2 illustrates the component side of the ECU. Locate the original Stock MCU, which is an 84-pin PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) square chip marked “Oki 66507”. In a top view of the ECU, this chip is situated in the lower-left corner, away from the ECU plug. It’s readily identifiable as the largest chip within the ECU.
Figure 3 – Solder Side of the Honda ECU
- Desoldering the Original MCU Chip. Carefully desolder the factory-installed MCU, as shown in Figure 3. For this delicate task, utilize a fine-tipped soldering aid like CHIPQUIK or a similar desoldering braid, applying it to the base of each pin. It is crucial to avoid overheating the Stock MCU, as excessive heat can damage it. Position your solder pump close to the heated pin to effectively remove the solder. Exercise extra caution on grounded pins, especially pin 1, as they typically require more heat to desolder due to increased thermal mass.
Figure 4 – Removed Stock Microcontroller Unit
Figure 5 – Location After Stock MCU Desoldering
- Preparing for the IC Socket Installation. After successfully desoldering the stock MCU (Figure 4), you’ll have an empty location on the ECU board as depicted in Figure 5. This is where the 84-pin PLCC IC (Integrated Circuit) socket will be installed. This socket allows for easy insertion and removal of chips in the future, preventing damage to the new chipped MCU.
Figure 6 – PLCC IC Socket Installed
- Installing the PLCC IC Socket. Install the 84-pin PLCC IC socket into the location where the original MCU was removed. Figure 6 shows the socket correctly positioned and soldered. Solder each pin of the socket securely to the PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Once soldering is complete, use a multimeter to thoroughly check for any shorts between pins. Clean the soldered area with a suitable solvent such as thinner or methanol (Figure 11 in original context, though not provided here, refers to cleaning step) to eliminate any flux residue near the pins, ensuring clean connections.
Figure 7 – Reprogrammed MCU Ready
Figure 8 – Chip Installation into IC Socket
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Inserting the Chipped MCU. Carefully insert your new, pre-programmed or “chipped” MCU (or even the original stock MCU if you are simply testing the socket installation) into the newly installed IC socket. Figure 8 illustrates the installation of a racing MCU into the socket. Ensure the chip is oriented correctly before applying even pressure to seat it firmly in the socket. After this step, reinstall the top and bottom covers of the ECU, ensuring they are properly secured.
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Testing and Verification. Reconnect the modified ECU back into your Honda. Reconnect the battery’s positive terminal. Start your car and check for proper operation. If there are no check engine lights illuminated on your dashboard and the engine revs smoothly past 4000rpm, you have successfully installed your chipped OBD2 Honda ECU.
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Enjoy the Performance Gains. Congratulations! You have successfully chipped your ECU and should now be able to experience the enhanced performance benefits.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the process. Always refer to specific guides and forums related to your exact Honda model and ECU for any model-specific nuances or recommendations. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time throughout the process for a successful ECU modification.
