How to install the Single Value AST Smart ECO VCM Modules
Your unit may differ in style from the one in the photos, but they all share a similar installation technique involving the male plug [red], female plug [blue] and thermal switch [green].
Locate your current ECT1 plug, normally located here. This photo is from a 2008 Honda Accord.
The plug has a locking mechanism on one side, push in with your thumb to unlock it, then carefully slide it up to remove the male plug from the ECT1 sensor. Make sure your engine is cold so you do not burn your hands.
In the photo below, you can see the male plug fully removed from the ECT1 sensor.
Your AST Smart ECO VCM module may look different than below, but they all require a similar installation procedure.
The male plug [red circle] will plug into the white connector in your engine.
The female plug [blue circle] will plug into the existing male plug you just removed from ECT1 in the previous step.
The thermal switch [green circle] will sense the engine temperature and engage the Smart ECO VCM module.
The male plug [red circle] will plug into the white connector in your engine.
The female plug [blue circle] will plug into the existing male plug you just removed from ECT1 in the previous step.
The thermal switch [green circle] will sense the engine temperature and engage the Smart ECO VCM module.
Below, you can see the AST Smart ECO VCM module plugged into the vehicle.
Ideally, you want the location of the thermal switch [green] to be close to the engine block, but it does not have to touch.
Ideally, you want the location of the thermal switch [green] to be close to the engine block, but it does not have to touch.
If you are noticing the AST Smart ECO VCM module is taking longer than expected to engage, you can position the thermal switch closer to the engine block so it receives its heat faster.
The closer it is to the engine, the faster it will respond to the temperature of your engine as it warms up, and will allow the module to engage quicker. The best position for it to operate quickly is touching the engine block, tucked as deep into the engine as possible where it stays the warmest.
The closer it is to the engine, the faster it will respond to the temperature of your engine as it warms up, and will allow the module to engage quicker. The best position for it to operate quickly is touching the engine block, tucked as deep into the engine as possible where it stays the warmest.
