PCM interface instruments-where to go from here? Need your input!

[marks914]

We started into the concept phase on this one. I know plenty about how traditional instruments work, senders, resistance, etc, but this is a whole new ball game for us and the industry.
This has been going on in the OEM/marine and commercial side for some time now. The next step is to the aftermarket.

We are looking at doing some sort of CAN/BUS/J1939/OBD instrument systems that you basically plug into the PCM and off you go. The advantage is you get to take advantage of all the information in the PCM. Everything from fault codes to warning lamps to accessing virtually every component the PCM is picking up, all without running extra senders and very simple plug-and play installation.

This all sounds great, the biggest issue we are running into is finding out some good info on what PCM you guys are running and what protocols it needs to communicate with the instrument interface.

Here is where we need some help: We would like to know what PCM you are running, its probably a Delphi that someone bought and reprogrammed. We also need to know who you think is the best in the business at programming these. We have had several conversations with Delphi, all resulting in things being too complicated. I am personally out of my element on the programming side, we have an engineering form signed up to do the work, just trying to connect the dots.

Here is the fun part where you folks come in, we also are looking for function. It appears that we can do LCD readouts in the instruments, or separate, similar to a modern OEM EVIC display you see on newer vehicles. We also plan to have some analog inputs for fuel level, boost, egt, wideband A/F ratio, what else do you need?

As for how much will this all cost? It looks like once we have programming don, the components are very competitive with traditional instruments believe it or not. Really, the concept is similar, a circuit board with components, a stepper motor in a housing with bezel and lens and some wire.

What is the end goal? To produce an instrument set that has great looks that is expandable based on customer needs with all of the 21st century features you would expect from an OEM.

Probably letting this cat out of the bag a bit early, but we need your help.

Thanks
Mark

[XcYZ]

Wow, that's a major undertaking. Keep us posted.

[marks914]

Originally Posted by XcYZ

Wow, that's a major undertaking. Keep us posted.

Yes, much bigger than I thought, but we will get through it
Mark