Can you clear engine data?

[PMC]

I’m interviewing surveyors for 280DA. One has indicated to me that the only way to clear engine data history (not engine trouble codes) is to replace the computers. Is this true? Even for a certified Sea Ray mechanic?
UN-erasable data would be Over Temperature, Low Oil Pressure – that type of info.

Also – this is the most expensive surveyor I have spoken with. 20/Ft + Engine data review - $50 *2 - Does this sound expensive?

 

[mistercomputerman]

I asked the same question of the dealer recently and was told that the only way to erase the ECM (computer) data was to reporgram the ECM and that Mercruiser had to do that.

 

[Henry Boyd]

Ok I'll bite. Why would you want to erase this data?

Henry

 

[PMC]

Ohh - I don't want to clear the data - I want to find out if the owner has. I'm in the process of buying this boat :grin:

If I'm going to spend the $ on a surveyor report (engine data) - I would like to have some comfort level that it is not altered in any way. This way if it comes up relatively clean - the deal is done and I can fix my signature :thumbsup:

 

[fc3]

I believe that is correct. When a clear codes is done, it just sets a flag that the codes were addressed and (hopefully) fixed. I know this is true on automotive systems. The dealer's software can extract all of the old trouble codes on my Navi that were fixed, but my Snap-On scanner doesn't see codes that were cleared.

Best regards,
Frank

 

[Dave S]

I also believe that the ECM permanenetly retains past trouble codes it has logged. My Northstar 550 is interfaced to the ECM via Smartcraft and I can display all previous faults set by the ECM.

 

[PMC]

My Northstar 550 is interfaced to the ECM via Smartcraft and I can display all previous faults set by the ECM.

Interesting...Once I get settled I'll see if I can interface the RayMarine C Series. Do you find the data helpfull - beond the standard SmartCraft gauges?