[db2022cs]

So I have my car in the garage and on Sunday I started installing my flex fuel kit for headers install and E85 tune next week. I got as far as finishing up everything except for pinning out the ECU connector. I ran into some confusion on removing the dummy pin in place of where the connector goes for the ECU pin. I have seen some that you are supposed to pull out with needle nose pliers but I think the one I have is a push through. I had a little tool I was using and I was pushing but I may not have pushed hard enough for the pin to pop out. I was just coming to forums to clarify that on a 2023 model SS, you are supposed to push the dummy pin from the back of the connector? I have no issue brute forcing mechanical things, but once I start going into ECU and electrical stuff, I get cautious.

[GreyGhost702]

I have seen those with connectors that have the grey pin plugs and those whose pin is actually mold blocked. Check YouTube, one of those videos talks about the 19+ GM changed the #38 pin to be blocked instead of plugged. You may have this issue. Takes extra effort to pop it. Definitely don’t force the pin, it should slide in and lock with little effort. I am currently doing this install as well, I will be pinning mine tomorrow.

[db2022cs]

Well, I currently haven't even popped out the plug yet. I'm pretty sure I just need a bit more force to get that plug out. Then it does look like once that is out, the pin should slide in smoothly. I'll give it another go tomorrow myself.

[GreyGhost702]

Originally Posted by db2022cs

Well, I currently haven't even popped out the plug yet. I'm pretty sure I just need a bit more force to get that plug out. Then it does look like once that is out, the pin should slide in smoothly. I'll give it another go tomorrow myself.

That's what's been said so far in some of the '19+ DSX install videos folks have done. It's not really a plug as much as it's blocked off... like GM is trying to say, stop modifying our shit, lol. I will also find out later today if I'm in the same boat. If I am, I have a pick tool and a hammer that will work perfect for knocking out a pin block.

[db2022cs]

I might just say F it and let my tuner do it. I have even seen someone on a facebook group saying you have to drill it out because it's cast into it. If you can, send a picture of the backside of your ECU connector so I can see if they look the same. They might have even changed it again in between 2019 and 2023. Good luck with your install. I also suggest letting car cool for a bit if you can. That fuel that squirts out is pretty hot. Also wear some eye protection.

[GreyGhost702]

Originally Posted by db2022cs

I might just say F it and let my tuner do it. I have even seen someone on a facebook group saying you have to drill it out because it's cast into it. If you can, send a picture of the backside of your ECU connector so I can see if they look the same. They might have even changed it again in between 2019 and 2023. Good luck with your install. I also suggest letting car cool for a bit if you can. That fuel that squirts out is pretty hot. Also wear some eye protection.

Slim chance of getting squirt in the face with fuel, my lines have been disconnected and capped since April lol. But I'll get some pics of my connector when I pin it this afternoon and post back. I'll just leave these here for now...

[db2022cs]

Oh nice, doing quite a bit of work! I'll probably stop at a tune/headers/E85.

[GreyGhost702]

Originally Posted by db2022cs

Oh nice, doing quite a bit of work! I'll probably stop at a tune/headers/E85.

That’s what they all say in the beginning…


As promised. As you can see, when you find pin 38 there is indeed a black plug in there, it is lightly molded into the connector and needs to be punched out from the connection side. You’ll want to use a 1/16” drill bit if you don’t have pin tools of the proper size. Amazon sells these tools for all various connector work. You want to use. 1/16 drill bit as anything bigger or smaller could damage either the plastic clip that holds the pin in place once inserted, or the rubber grommet on the other side where the plug is. The grommet isn’t a terrible loss but it does keep the pins sealed against water, so kind of nice to keep intact. When you insert the drill bit, use the back side in first so the flat surface rests against the bottom of the plug and make sure it’s straight. Then take your hammer of choice and give it a few encouraging taps to break the tiny plastic tabs that are holding the plug in place. You’ll know when it’s broke loose.

Now you can see from the back side of the connector, the grommet is intact and the plug is out. Now you can insert the pin. When you do, make sure the short edge is towards that black plastic clip we saw on the connection side, that’s what gives it that satisfying “click” once the pin is inserted to proper depth. Now put it back together and make it look nice.

[db2022cs]

Ah ok, yeah that is what mine looks like and it gives me a bit more confidence on what I was doing was correct, I just needed to be a bit more forceful with punching that plug out. I'll give it a try at some point over the next few days before the tuner on Monday. Thanks for the picture!

[Booher]

I have to say thank you for this. I have a flex fuel kit that's waiting for more parts to be put on but I had no idea that they changed the plug,so I appreciate ya for saving me time in the future.