i have never updated my 04 1/2. i took delivery in june of 04 and it was ordered for me so i assume it was made shortly before i got it. i have never had the dealer update the software. i heard that the there is a flash to correct the overhead and it will help the actual millage also. question is, does this hurt performance? if it does help the mpg and does not hurt the performance will it make a diffrance once i reload the smarty?

 

Being its a 2004.5 and most likely not under warranty the dealer may charge you to flash the ECM.

 

i thought all the tsb's and flashes were done for free regaurdless.. if it is benifitual then i will at least look into it. if not to heck with it anyway!

 

I havent heard of it but would like to know more

 

If the warranty got voided or is past the 3yr/36k, you'll have to pay for TSB's or flashes. At least I had to.

 

Depending on the dealer the TSB's (associated with downloads) are normally free. With a 2004.5 truck this flash you are referring to is nothing more than an ECM update to correct the fueling %. On paper it likely effects performance but you won't feel it. If you are really worried about it get yourself a smarty box and download the best program that fits your driving style and go from there. The stock flash on the smarty contains the most up to date version of Dodge's stuff anyway so it might work better for you.

 

IIRC it is the same flash the dealer does for white smoke on start-up and the poor fuel economy. I had it done on my truck within the first year because my mileage was terrible. Hope this helps.

I think the TSB # was 18-074 or something like that, but don't quote me.