Nate Smith

Hey! Figured I'd ask around here... get some thoughts.

Quick question Is the ECU interchangeable between 97-01?

Story

CRV would stall out periodically. AutoZone coded 4 misfires (all cylinders) and an o2 sensor. Replaced the ignition switch, distributor, rotor, plugs, wires, fuel filter. Ran great!! ... for 1 day (about 20 miles).

Issue

At a stop light - chugged a couple times like it was going to stall... then stalled. Doesn't start back up. Cranks good. Mechanic (guy I know doing all this for FREE) says, good compression on all cylinders, no spark. His code machine doesn't throw actual codes but reads: Misfire, comp, fuel, o2 sensor.

• Tried gas into the intake; nothing

• Changed the ignition control module; nothing

• Changed the crankshaft sensor; nothing

Looking to replace the ECU now. Keep in mind, he's doing all this work for free... I'm just buying the parts. That said, I do feel that I'm going down a tunnel with no light.

Any thoughts, tips, help, advice... ALL very much appreciated.

THANKS! - Nate

ThisIsMatt

Quick Answer I don't believe all 97-01 ECMs are interchangeable. In 1997 and 1998 the CR-V's engine made less power. 1999 got a bump in torque/hp and that remained constant through the end of Gen 1. 1997 and 1998 ECMs might be interchangeable, but you'll have to do a bit more research, or wait for someone more knowledgeable to chime in.

A suggestion for your stalling issue...there's a relay behind the glove box called the "main relay". It basically "turns on" spark and fuel delivery. If when your V dies it lacks both fuel and spark, the main relay is a common culprit. Also, they're cheaper than ECMs As they age the solder joints on the relay board crack and then the relay fails to engage when it gets warm (it can stall after running for a while, or if your car has been baking in the July sun for hours it may cause a no-start). That guy's always worth a check!