ECU Relocation

[Spunk]

Howdy folks,

Has anyone relocated their ECU to the roof of their cabin? Perhaps Pro's and Con's of relocating an ECU for offroading purposes?

Typically, water is the main reason why some people have relocated their ECU. However, from the limited research I have done, most have relocated the ECU higher, but left the wiring harness the same length. I am running some numbers on my end, but do you think the added voltage drop from a longer wiring harness could screw with the system?

Discussion is welcome. aaaannnnd GO!

 

[absalom]

Wouldn't it be much easier to simply enclose the ECU where it sits now in a waterproof case of sorts? Also, keep in mind, you most likely have additional computers in addition to ECU that would benefit from being out of the water. The thought of lengthening 100+ wires makes me nauseous. After dunking a Tacoma in the water a few weeks ago, it's much more than just protecting the ECU. We're STILL drying out all the nooks and crannies of that thing. What a mess.

 

[T4R2014]

Sounds like you need a boat.

 

[jgue467]

Texas Flood - RIP SRV

Well I know east Tejas has had a lot of rain recently but just how DEEP are ya' planning on taking it? Just remember there are lots of other areas that don't enjoy 'deep' (more than mid-tire) water like the diff and trans breathers. Luck and lets here it for the rain - YEAH! (As good as its been, Austin's lake has still has 51 more feet to reach 'normal') :cowboy:

 

[gamefreakgc]

Con: Having to re-wire dozens and dozens of wires.

I think that's enough to settle this one.

 

[Spunk]

Thanks folks!

 

[Konkordmusk]

Unlike most, I have actually 'been there' and 'done that'. Not on a 4runner, but on a friends vw mk4 vr6. We recorded no voltage drop after 4-5ft extensions.

Like others, I do not recommend it. Too much work for very little benefit, of which the benefit can be achieved by other methods more efficiently.

 

[jeremyc74]

Unlike most, I have actually 'been there' and 'done that'. Not on a 4runner, but on a friends vw mk4 vr6. We recorded no voltage drop after 4-5ft extensions.

Like others, I do not recommend it. Too much work for very little benefit, of which the benefit can be achieved by other methods more efficiently.

Why would you do that?

 

[Konkordmusk]

Why would you do that?

It was a show car. Its called an engine bay shave/tuck/delete. Popular with the sorta crowd who likes their car but know its not a racecar :lmao:

Attached is the end result.