TSB udate

So I am going to attempt the 04B31 to 04B33 flash today. I think I. Have everything. Needed to proceed except a battery support unit. I’m sure there are many out there who have done this on their own so what exactly should I get without spending a grand. Ive heard once you start flashing it can really drop your volts.

 

Is it even worth trying my toyo dealer first to see if they will do it?

 

If you have the Tactrix cable and Techstream it should take 5-10 minutes. Turn off ALL aux power (headlight, dome lights, radio, etc). Double click your .cuw file and follow the instructions. Super easy.

If you're nervous, ask your dealer to do it.

 

I have the new open port 2 cable I got with my VF tune kit from OV.

 

I assume that’s the new tactic cable

 

I am nervous but also don’t want to mess around with the dealer. From everything I’ve read it’s hit or miss on whether they will do the update

 

Yes thats the right cable.

 

So you did yours without a battery saver?

 

$100 NOCO GENIUS10, 10A Smart Car Battery Charger, 6V and 12V Automotive Charger, Battery Maintainer, Trickle Charger, Float Charger and Desulfator for Motorcycle, ATV, Lithium and Deep Cycle Batteries

https://www.amazon.com/NOCO-GENIUS10-Fully-Automatic-Temperature-Compensation/dp/B07W3QT226

This one has a "12 Volt Supply" Mode specifically for holding a battery at the proper 13.8 vdc during a flash.
Made in America, built like a tank, works beautifully.

 

You used it for flashing?

 

Yes, that is specifically what I got it for.

 

Cool. Thanks for the info

 

Don't worry about your battery. You should be fine. Just make sure your hood is open.

AND... turn off ALL accessories. Lights, radio, HVAC, BSD, Park Assist, Heated Seats, etc.

And make sure your hood is open.

 

Sounds good. Thank you

 

Ive done TSBs on 6 or 7 trucks without using a battery maintainer and never had an issue. Im pretty sure thats the case for most guys on here as well.

I always check the battery with my multimeter first and make sure its 12V+ before doing anything else.

If youre really worried you can use a maintainer or hook your truck up to a running car via jumpers.

 

Sounds good. Just learning the ropes

 

That's the exact one I use. Works like a charm!

 

Perfect

 

The Official Toyota Instructions for an ECU Update/Flash require a battery maintainer, for good reason.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/attachments/tsb-0134-16-ecu-flash-instructions-pdf.4048047/

"Battery voltage MUST NOT FALL BELOW 11.8V during reprogramming."
"The DCA-8000 battery diagnostic tool MUST be used in Power Supply Mode to maintain battery voltage at 13.5V while flash reprogramming the vehicle."

If the battery voltage falls below 11.8vdc during a flash, the update will fail, and you may 'brick' your ECU as a result.

Most never even read the above Official Toyota Instructions before doing their first flash - ignorance is bliss, at least until the battery does indeed fall below 11.8vdc, and the ECU is rendered useless and the truck won't even start (this happened here just recently). Do you feel lucky?

I wear a seatbelt when I drive, just in case; and I use a battery maintainer when I flash, just in case.
It is also a very good tool to have, for lots of uses besides just flashing.

 

Thanks so much