Hi. Newbie to your very helpful forum. I have a 97 sd7 that won't start. Itquit on me twice. Both times it was raining. The first time it died, I was able to restart it the next day.Dash lights come on when I turn the key, but engine does not turn over, just silence. I hauled it to the dealer and they said that the ECU needed to be replaced (for $3200). I told them where to shove it and hauled it back home. I bought an ECU w/matching numbers for $250 in exc. condition. My question is: Do I have to haul my disco back to the dealer to have them program the new ECU, or can some other shop do that? I live in TN.

 

"YUP"

 

Sounds like two issues, if it died while running or driving, did it run rough or stall ? Cap rotor or wires.(dont use aftermarket !)
find your starter relay , I think its in the RF kick panel ? and see if it clicks when turning the key, if it does go to the starter and check for a power signal when turning the key also makesure the big engine ground wire is tight.if thats good the starter failed. also try putting the shifter in netural (cable might need adjustment)
other things for engines that die, check the fuel pump ground and pig tail plug at the LR frame rail for corroded terminals.
the GEMS ECUs only croak if they get wet, was yours mounted under the hood ? check the plugs for green stuff.
Take notice of what occured when thing happened ,lights in the cluster on ?no tach Etc.
and yes only your dealer can program an engine ecu.
this can be alot of things, Good Luck

 

Jon,
If you are still having problems, call me and I'll try and help you.