How to convert TCM between BF and FG - jakka351/FG-Falcon GitHub Wiki
By Jack Leighton - © 2025
This procedure allows you to change the operating system of a ZF 6HP26 Transmission Control Module between BF Falcon spec and FG Falcon spec by writing a full firmware file. A matching calibration must be flashed afterwards to ensure proper PCM/TCM pairing.
- 🔒 Overwrites the entire firmware, not just the calibration.
- ✅ A matching calibration file MUST be flashed immediately after firmware.
- ❌ Incorrect firmware/calibration combinations = DTCs & Limp Mode.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Software | ZF 6HP26 Toolkit (licensed) |
| Hardware | J2534 Pass-Thru device compatible with Ford |
| Vehicle | Stable 12V supply (battery charger recommended) |
| Laptop | Connected to mains power |
| Files Needed | Correct BF or FG full firmware (.bin) + matching calibration
|
- Connect the J2534 device to the vehicle OBD-II port.
- Set ignition to ON (engine off).
- Attach a battery charger to maintain 12V+.
- Plug laptop into mains power.
- Open the software.
- Select your J2534 device.
- Navigate to Write Flash.
- Click Browse → Choose the full firmware for the target spec:
- 🟢 BF firmware → Convert to BF spec
- 🔵 FG firmware → Convert to FG spec
💡 Firmware files available at the Firmware Database
- Confirm Full Firmware Write.
- Follow on-screen prompts.
- ⏱️ Takes approx 15–20 minutes.
- Cycle ignition
- Disconnect the device
- Interrupt the process
- After firmware completes, go to Write Calibration.
- Select the matching calibration file:
- BF firmware → BF calibration
- FG firmware → FG calibration
💡 Calibration ensures proper PCM/TCM communication and Strategy ID matching.
- Clear all TCM DTCs.
- Cycle ignition OFF → ON.
- Check Strategy ID & Calibration ID match.
- Perform Adaptations Reset if transmission rebuilt/swapped.
✅ Your TCM is now converted to the desired BF or FG Falcon specification and paired with the correct calibration.
⚠️ Wrong firmware/calibration = Non-functional TCM.⚠️ Interrupting the flash can brick the TCM; use recovery with full firmware.⚠️ Always double-check firmware/calibration combo before writing.
