can 99tj engine computer be reprogrammed??

[Pennsy]

I have a 99tj that I am rebuilding after accident..computer was replaced with one that had been in a Sahara with SKIM option. My Sport does not have this option but computer thinks it does....engine will start then die after 2 seconds..(computer shuts down fuel) DC is telling me it can't be reprogrammed to disable SKIM option!!! I can't believe the options cannot be reset!! Anybody have any experience with this??

[fredjeep]

Hey Pennsy!

The SKIM is the Sentry Key Anti-Theft system. It is a good thing that you cannot reprogram it. The criminals would have an easy way to defeat it then.

The solution is to go to a dealership and purchase a set of Sentry keys (about $80 each)and have them programmed to your new Jeep. You will need to get the VIN from the donor TJ so the tech can retrieve the codes from the DC database.

I hope this will solve your issue, just be sure to have the VIN from the donor TJ and you should have no problems. Be sure to get two keys, because if you lose one you can program a new one without need for the dealer with your one good key.

[Pennsy]

Fredjeep.

My tj is a Sport without the security feature....there must be more hardware involved to add the SKIM besides the key itself and the PIN # for the computer???

[fredjeep]

Hey Pennsy!

As simple as it seems, that is all there is to the Sentry-Key system. Embedded in the key(the fat grey ones/not the thinner black ones)is a computer chip radio transmitter. When the engine computer sends a signal, the key has to respond with the proper code within 2 seconds or the computer will shut off the fuel. The computer has a transmitter and reciever, the key is powered by a small electric current from the ignition switch. The only thing you may have to have is a new ignition switch. This info was given to me by a Jeep Service writer at the dealership I worked for. I hope it is good and correct.

I just had a thought, do you have access to the donor TJ? You may be able to get the keys, the ignition cylinder and any other hardware you may need from that one. I would visit or call a Jeep service department and pick their brains.

Good luck! I hope I have helped:D

[Pennsy]

Fredjeep....

Thanx for the reply/help...there was no donor Jeep, I ordered what was supposed to be a new computer from Don-A-Vee in Ca. It may have been installed in sombodies vehicle there for testing purposes and then put back in stock as new. It contains somebodies VIN# and the SKIM feature was activated, and there seems to be no way to turn off. The dealer who has my Jeep now, OWL Chrysler/Jeep in Honesdale PA has been great in working with me, and has now ordered a NEW computer and installed it and she runs fine... I am waiting for a callback from Don-A-Vee parts manager so I can sent his back with full refund and have them pay for my tow and labor expense at OWL in PA.

[fredjeep]

Hey Pennsy!!

WOO HOO!! glad to hear you got the TJ up and running! Hope some mods or upgrades are coming soon! Let us know!!

BTW, Good luck with Don-A-Vee. I know some parts houses hate taking returns.