It took a few cranks, just to map out the crank position I'm sure but it ran. Drove fine too it just ran rich.

You put a 98 SE PCM in an 01 SSEi?

I put in an Intense PCM in my 99 ssei on Monday and after a few cranks, it started. I was told by INTENSE that if it starts, a re-learn is not necissary. Does this mean I don't have to the CASE learn? I noticed the temp dropped in accordance w/ my 180 stat, but she shifts from 1st to 2nd at 5200 and I think it'* supposed to be 6000. I'm not certain I got any performance gains from the new PCM other than lowering my temp. Any suggestions?

The '98 SE PCM will run your '01 SSEi (as you've seen), but it will run it crappy (because the program'* not right and it would need a CASE learn anyway), and it will set off all kinds of bells and lights (as you've seen) since the VIN doesn't match up with your other control modules (BCM, etc.). The only thing you can do with that '98 SE PCM now is either sell it off, or have someone with a Tuner re-program it with a stock '01 SSEi .bin file and manually put in your car'* VIN #. Then it would still need a CASE learn.

When you get your original PCM back from Intense, it will need a new CASE learn, because you've moved your crank with the original PCM out of the car. Sorry...I hope you can find a local with a Tuner; otherwise it'* off to the dealer$hip.

Did you send your original PCM in to Intense for re-programming (and in the meantime, NOT turn your crank)? If not, you WILL need a CASE learn on the Intense PCM.

Now for my mini-rant:

I think the vendors who sell "performance PCM'*" should be ALOT more clear on how to avoid needing a CASE learn, when you would need one if it is unavoidable for you, how to get one, and it'* potential cost.

In short, if you wind up needing a CASE learn (which is ALWAYS on a '98+ car if you do not send your original PCM in first), that'* an extra $30 to $80 dealership expense...and you should be made fully aware of that up-front.

No, I had one sent to me, do the swap out, then send core in for 100$ credit.
I think I ought to do the CASE learn.

I should add something here...

I get my info on CASE learns from the DHP / Powrtuner.com website. Even the gurus there are not 100% sure on ALL situations where a CASE learn is needed...alot is logic and deduction, but I suppose the general attitude is, "the Tuner can do a CASE learn; you've got one if you're reading this; better safe than sorry."

The only situation I know of where everyone 100% agrees you DON'T need one is:
1) You remove your original PCM (and send it to whomever for programming, or what have you).
2) You DO NOT turn the crank in the meantime.
3) You reinstall the original, re-programmed PCM.

What'* the difference between a "Powertrain Control Module Security Relearn Procedure" and a CASE learn?

well crap I guess I need to get a case learn then. I was wondering why my car didn't feel any faster. Oh well I used to work at the dealer so maybe they cut me some slack. At least the dam thing started up at all though.
How long to Case learns take?