V70 98 tdi ecu compatability query

[Neilmathews]

Hi newbie here hoping this is the correct forum...just bought a lovely 98 tdi estate. And would like to install an uprated performance chip into the ecu. I have done this on my other cars, golf, bmw, and then done many many miles with improved performance and no loss of mpg. However...There is always a risk in opening the ecu, removing and replacing the standard chip with a performance chip. So I would prefer to buy a matching numbers ecu re chip and install that keeping the original ecu as 'spare'. On the golf I used a 'plug and play' replacement ecu no need for ignition key or other code matching or recognition...then did 90k miles no prob. Bmw was a little more complex....but I did it 5 years or so ago and all fine. Volvo is new to me...has anyone gone down this road to advise what is required ? Is immob removal necessary for example or key chip change? (Is there a chip in the key?)..... mine is of course the audi 5 cyl 2.5 tdi....seem to be a lot of cheap ecu 's for sale so presumably it can be done

[PNuT]

is it a 98 or 99 model year?

It was a transitional year where they switched from msa 15.7 to msa 15.8

the easiest way to tell is by which type of MAF you have? 15.7 has one like this




& 15.8 more like this

[PNuT]

http://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showthread.php?t=260269

[martin_r_smith]

^^^ what Pnut said, see my thread. PM me for more info.

[Neilmathews]

Thanks for responding ..mine is the older flat 15.7 which I hope is good...

[martin_r_smith]

It means I can certainly help you

[PNuT]

Originally Posted by Neilmathews

Thanks for responding ..mine is the older flat 15.7 which I hope is good...

It is, they are not linked to the immobiliser for a start so plug & play!

[martin_r_smith]

You will need to get your ecu socketed to except the reprogrammed chips. Then I can send you the new chips with a very good tune. Or you can send me your ecu and I can sort it all for you.

[Neilmathews]

Hi Martin n madman...took the top off the fusebox first fooled by the ecu shaped moulding in the lid :-). Then found the ecu nearer the rad. Numbers are 0281001802.
I can get another ecu with the same number. Would chipping the 'spare' present any increased difficulty comparing to chipping my original ecu? Also...does chipping involve removing the old chips and pushing in the new....or is there an additional process required? (Only asking due to the 'socketing' comment).....I like the idea of keeping my original ecu as 'spare' .....

[martin_r_smith]

Yes the old chips need to be desoldered then a socket soldered in its place. New eeproms can then be fitted. You can get another ecu, as long as it has the same numbers you're fine.