Ok...update 1...Got a text message today from Independent Specialist. Looks like a 'speed sensor' gone awol. Big sigh of relief...he's going to pull off oil pan tomorrow to have a look,hopes it's nothing too serious. Will update when I hear more/get bill.

Colm 92C2Tip

Update no. 2...well, new speed sensor installed, no change so it looks as if the ECU is at fault. Unit itself appears fine, ie no marks or rust apparent. Does anybody know where I might source one if the unit can't be reconditioned?

Did you get any information about the output from the "HAMMER"? These would go a long way towards telling what the issue is. It sounds like somebody is on a hunting trip with your problem.

As for the sourcing for the Tip ECU, try one of the breaker yards, Parts Heaven, or Los Angeles Dismantlers.

Hi there,
The Hammer info pointed to either the sensor or the ECU being snafu so we tried the sensor first as the lesser of two evils. The ECU is what the Hammer points to...thanks for that. Guess I can Google LA Dismantlers. Anybody know if a used ECU has to be re-mapped to install in a different car?

Cheers,

Colm 92C2Tip

I know the 92-94 tips have at least different ECU software from the earlier cars. I would think you could use an earlier tip ECU; you would just loose the "start in 1st" function and have the older shift pattern mapping.

Before replacing, however, I would pull the ECU, break it open, whip out a magnifying glass and look for evidence of cracked solder joints (or corrosion), particularly where the connector is soldered to the board. You may be able to revive your existing unit without too much difficulty.

Hello again,
Been on the phone to LAPD...(interesting acronym that), who have offered an ECU for $600 inc. shipping, which seems reasonable enough. My only concern is whether the unit works do I have any comeback? Guy on phone seemed very helpful, so I've instructed them to get it in a DHL/UPS package ASAP, as I miss my 911...funny how that roar kinda grows on one...
Has anybody else had any dealings with them? My own impression is of an outfit that knows its business.
Feedback appreciated.

Cheers,

Colm 92 C2 Tip
04 Saab93 Convertible
03 Yamaha R1
82 911 SC

Rennspeed motorsport at http://www.rennspd.com/

has a unit for $450 on ebay Item number: 170183215384

LAPD has one too Item number: 310018772391 but for $500

Hi there,
Spoke to the Rennspeed people a few mins ago. Unit available and in post. LAPD didn't get back to me too quickly, so I've gone with Renspeed,who have promised me express shipping. The LAPD price had an extra 100 bux 'Core charge', whatever that may be, so we'll see how it works out.
I'm very impressed with the help from this forum...very impressed indeed.
Anyone ever visiting Ireland let me know...might save you the bother of renting a car,as I've a spare 911SC here.

Cheers,
Colm

Colm,
Very generous offer. I was just in your gorgeous country a week ago.

Here are some pictures from the Blessington Lake area:

http://www.jneteler.smugmug.com/Ireland

Marvelous place and marvelous people.

Best of luck with the ECU.

Regards,

JNeteler

What is the "start in 1st" function?

Our 91 cars start in 2nd gear when in "D" unless you leave the shifter in 3 when you start off.

Have you tried someone like Systems Consulting Automotive Electronics to see if they can diagnose/repair the unit?

Thanks - I thought they all did that I have the habit of always shifting down to 1st with the Tip before pulling away.

I think it's to do with the chip 'memory'. If I drive mine normally,she'll engage 2nd when put into Drive, (well,she used to!),but after a little 'spirited driving', i.e. flooring it from stationary,the car will engage 1st gear when drive is engaged. After a more gentle drive it reverts to selecting 2nd again, which I think is the default program. I think it's to save tyres...Maybe that's what messed up the ECU on me....

Colm

I'm going to try that! I'm so used to moving into the Tip mode as soon as I start, I haven't explored the behaviour much in the automatic mode.

Good luck with your new parts