New ECU for a 1990 240 DL

[schultzmattd]

Hi Everyone,

I recently had my ECU die and am looking to purchase a replacement on eBay. I started looking for an ECU with the exact same model number but have come across a few that are billed as upgrades for older models that might be more error prone. For example, the number on my current (dead) ECU is 0280 000 556, but I've seen an ad for one that's describe as follows:

This ECU (0280 000 946) is the upgraded version of the failure prone mustard/yellow colored label 0280 000 556

Should I be concerned about buying an ECU that does not have the exact same model number? Is there any way to verify which parts are upgrades over older parts? Most of the sellers don't accommodate returns for buying the wrong part, so I wanted to be absolutely sure before I throw $100 down the drain. If any other information would be helpful, please don't hesitate to ask, and thanks in advance for any advice.

-Matt

[billofdurham]

Matt, welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

Buying a used ECU is always a tricky business.

My book shows that the 0280 000 946 is a suitable replacement for the 0280 000 556. You could also use a 0280 000 933. Both 946 and 933 are California/EGR units.

ECUs are usually attributed with a life of 14 - 15 years so you should try to find out how old the replacement unit is.

Bill.

[schultzmattd]

Thanks! That clarifies things a lot.