How-To: Socket a SMEC/SBEC
Written by: Brian Schulteis aka "Una"
(c) Copyright 2006
Many people have asked for a comprehensive article explaining
how to remove the permanent EPROM from their Chrysler ECM's and replace it with
a socket, so that it can be reprogrammed easily. Let's start with a
list of the tools needed:
All pictures in this article are clickable for a larger version if you need
to see something closer.
From left to right: Desoldering iron, sponge, T15 torx screwdriver, flush cut
dikes, metal jar lid, toothbrush, solder, pocket knife. Not shown is a regular
soldering iron, which will also be needed.
Desoldering iron: This iron is readily available at radio shack. I'll cover
how it works later in the article.
Sponge: You use this when "tinning" the tip of the desoldering and soldering
irons.
T15 Torx screwdriver: The screws that hold the SMEC/SBEC case together are
T15's, you'll need this to get inside the SMEC/SBEC.
Flush Cut Dikes: Also available at Radio Shack, these are used to remove the eprom.
Metal Jar Lid: Something to squirt the solder from the desoldering iron into.
Toothbrush: Note the picture above, You'll want to use a pocket knife, or
grinder to sharpen the end of the toothbrush. This is a VERY important tool in
this procedure.
Solder: When you put the new socket in, you can't reuse the old solder, and
you want fresh solder to tin the irons with anyways. Use rosin core solder.
Pocket knife: a utility knife would work even better, but either will do.
Regular soldering iron: Can't put the new socket in with the desoldering
iron, it's too big. Radio shack has standard soldering irons as well. Keep the
wattage down, I've used a 15watt iron on many projects, nice and safe. Try to
get a "pencil" tip iron.
That covers all the tools you'll need. For a workspace, I recommend a WELL
LIGHTED area, I use the kitchen counter with a huge fluorescent light fixture
hanging under the cupboards. It works so well I didn't use a flash to take any
of these pictures. This is important, the better you can see what your working
on, the more likely your going to succeed without damaging the circuit board.
Continue to Page 2
