So the engine that came with the car was a non vtec manual, engine was done for so I went and bought a f23 vtec(exact engine but vtec) and I got a harness from an automatic vtec(my dad said it'd work perfectly fine) and a automatic ecu. We've gotten in all in and plugged up and cranking, but now the issue is the P1259, I bought a brand new vtec solenoid. And the code didn't leave. I checked the harness pluggins to the solenoid and it gets all 12v, I changed the oil. And I've checked the pluggins on solenoid itself and they are fine. But the code will not leave and I don't get it. PLEASE HELP!!!

 

Anyone got any ideas?? It's my first car and I've been waiting for it to run.

 

i googled: can i use a automatic vtec ecu in a manual car?

No, generally you shouldn't use an automatic VTEC ECU in a manual car, especially if the engine and transmission are different. While the engine itself might be compatible, the ECU is programmed for the automatic transmission's specific needs (like shift points, etc.), and using it in a manual car can lead to issues like limp mode, incorrect shift points, and potentially other problems.

Here's why:

• Transmission Control:
  The ECU for an automatic transmission will expect signals from the automatic gearbox, like gear selection and transmission sensors. A manual car doesn't have these, and the ECU will throw codes, potentially leading to limp mode.
• Shift Point and VTEC Activation:
  The automatic ECU is calibrated to engage VTEC at specific RPMs and conditions based on the automatic transmission's behavior. This might not align with how a manual transmission handles revs and load, potentially affecting performance.
• Fueling and Timing:
  The ECU also manages fuel delivery and spark timing. The automatic ECU might be programmed to prioritize smoother, more fuel-efficient operation, which might not be ideal for a manual car focused on power and performance.

In short: While the engine itself might physically work, the automatic ECU's software is tailored to an automatic gearbox and won't be compatible with a manual car's operation. Using the wrong ECU can cause problems and reduce performance.

 

Im not worried about the ecu, I got a guy coming next week to wipe the ecu and make it into a manul. I bought another vtec solenoid. We threw some starting fluid at it and it would've started but we ran out lmao. Today I will be replacing it and hopefully could start it