Experience with TFI-IV module on Ford distributors??

[LNYTUNS]

I am looking fo any info I can on the TFI-IV (Thick Film Ignition) systems on some 83-95 Ford distributor. My 88 Marquis died last week and the computer codes I pulled pointed to that module, specificly the PIP and SPOUT signals back to the PCM. I understand that there was a class action law suit against Ford on these modules and that they will be replaced on any vehicle 83-95 with less than 100k miles (85k on my merc).

What I am wondering is if any dealers on this site would think that it is ok for me to just bring the TFI-IV module into my dealer and tell them about the problem and the miles on my car and get a new part? I do not want to have the car towed over there and have them fix it, I don't want them touching my car. Besides I have everything apart already, I did not know about the warranty on this part until after I pulled everything apart.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[MitchB]

Decipher what codes you have. Are you missing the PIP? Here's what happens: The hall sensor in the distributor outputs a PIP (profile ignition pickup) signal through the ICM (ignition module) to the EEC. The EEC reads this output and, in turn, outputs it's own SPOUT (spark output) signal back to the ICM. The ICM reads this signal and decides when to turn the coil on and off. The EEC monitors what the ICM is doing with the coil by reading this coil output signal. It calls this the IDM (ignition diagnostic monitor). If you lost the PIP (and, possibly SPOUT), you must check the hall sensor. If you lost the IDM, but not the PIP or SPOUT, then the ICM is suspect.

Mitch

[TAF]

THAT^^^is EXACTLY what I was going to say Mitch...:help::confused:

[LNYTUNS]

Decipher what codes you have. Are you missing the PIP? Here's what happens: The hall sensor in the distributor outputs a PIP (profile ignition pickup) signal through the ICM (ignition module) to the EEC. The EEC reads this output and, in turn, outputs it's own SPOUT (spark output) signal back to the ICM. The ICM reads this signal and decides when to turn the coil on and off. The EEC monitors what the ICM is doing with the coil by reading this coil output signal. It calls this the IDM (ignition diagnostic monitor). If you lost the PIP (and, possibly SPOUT), you must check the hall sensor. If you lost the IDM, but not the PIP or SPOUT, then the ICM is suspect.

Mitch
Lost the PIP and the SPOUT, codes 14 and 18 respectively. I have replaced the TFI-IV module today and so far all is well. The Dealers around here are bad, putting it nicely. They would only fix it if I paid to have it towed to the dealer so they could verify what I was telling them was wrong with the unit.

[Macon Marauder]

Yeah, Ford settled a class action on this a couple of years ago. I got a letter from the firm handling it. I had replaced the module on my '87 TBird years earlier. Sent in the documentation and got the check MORE THAN A YEAR LATER!

Don't know how you would proceed from this point 'cuz I thought the case was settled and done.