Check engine light and Code 52

[70jimmy]

Ever since I put the 5.7 TBI motor in my check engine light has stayed on and never blinked no matter if starting or running. So we pulled the code and it was 52, which said Calpak missing or not working.

So my question was what heck is that. So ordered one from Howell for 20 bucks. Got it and basically just a little plastic piece with some contacts in it.

dropped the computer and pulled the cover off and snapped this in place and bang now it works properly. YES!!!!!!!!

Now I keep looking to see if the light is on when I am driving. The red of the lens blends in with the interior so you cant really see it unless its on. Just happy with the whole TBI deal, but already looking at upgrades.

 

[Thunder]

So my question was what heck is that. So ordered one from Howell for 20 bucks. Got it and basically just a little plastic piece with some contacts in it.

The calpack contains the memory for limp home operation. It is a back up program that will run the engine good enough to get you home or to a repair shop. If the PROM, or the 02 sensor fails the ECM will go into limp home mode using the program stored in the calpak.
Your vehicle will run fine without a calpak. But if you loose the chip or a major sensor you will be stuck beside the road without it.

 

[70jimmy]

Cool, Thanks for the info.

Cal pak is in and no more check engine light. Good to know what it is for, especially since I have been known to limp home a time or two!

 

[dyeager535]

Errors like this also can be due to a bad connection/seat. Uninstalling/reinstalling may solve the problem, meaning you might have a spare?

 

[70jimmy]

The computer didn't come with a calpak so that is why I had to order one and why I got the error code. All good now. Don't know why Howell would send one out without a calpak??

 

[dyeager535]

Perhaps they expect you to source your own for some reason? Does sem odd not to come with that if it comes with the other electronics.