97 challenger-Cant program DESS key

[kcr357]

I took my boat to ft laud motorsports to have a dess key programmed(bought it not running for a good price). They said the computer was not powering up and they werent able to program the key. While the exterior of the boat itself was not hte best, it seems to have low hours and inside the mpem housing looks brand new. I wanted to get some opinions before I buy another mpem. Anyone have some suggestions for diagnosing my problem?

 

[timmyboy76]

recheck the fuses in mpem area...

 

[kcr357]

All fuses good..

 

[kcr357]

correction, the 7.5 a fuse in the console was blown. I replaced it. Jumped the starter to check the solenoid, both are working. I making contact between the three wires that go to the dess terminal and pushed the start button. Alot of clicking from the mpem, but no turning over. The low oil light was on, will this make it not turn over? Also, is there a way to know if the computer is powering up so when I go to get the key programmed, they can actually do it? Or do I just have to chance it?

 

[vilord]

The computer has a security system built into it (thats what DESS stands for D.E.Security.System).
Shorting the wires together at the dess terminal won't make it start, might just fry stuff.
Now that you are getting clicking, head back to the dealer for a new key to be programmed. Easy way to know if the mpem is okay is to put an unprogrammed key on, it should beep at you.

 

[kcr357]

Everything is go. Got the key programmed at Riva. No beeping cause the buzzer must be dead, but turns over and starts:hurray:

 

[vilord]

you can get a new beeper from radioshack, part number 273-068 is waterproof, so it's good for your boat. There are three terminals on the back of it, connect the negative line from the boat to the terminal by itself, connect the positive line from the boat to BOTH of the other terminals on the new RS beeper.

You can also get one from riva, but $10 at radioshack or $40 plus from the dealer... I went radioshack.