How do you get it to flash the code? I have been searching but havnt found anything yet.
If this is in reference to the 'Check Engine" light flashing to signal the stored trouble codes, that does not apply to 96+. If the flashing procedure you're referring to is what I'm thinking, it is only for non-OBD systems prior to 1996. I'm not aware of any such procedure with post-96 models.
96+ models require a scanner and the trouble codes usually are Pxxxx - where xxxx is the actual code number. P0300 would be a random misfire, P0301-P0310 would indicate a specific cylinder misfiring -- 301 is cylinder 1, 302 is cylinder 2, and so forth. And yes, there are some gas V10 engines out there built by Ford and Dodge.
The older pre-96 system, you perform these steps (DO NOT do this on 96+, you risk frying the PCM) Ford, Chrysler and GM all have different ports and therefore some are much easier with a special dongle to put the ECM in diagnostic mode. Auto parts stores can usually sell you one that's custom fit for Ford. Not sure about Dodge. It's not really required on GM if you know what you're doing.
Locate the diagnostic port.
Per the diagnostic port pinout diagram, use a paper clip or piece of wire to connect the diagnostic mode pin to the ground pin, also in the diagnostic port.
Turn ignition on, but do not start the engine.
The check engine light will start flashing in a sequence to indicate the numbers of the trouble codes stored.
One flash, a pause, then two flashes will show by default.
This is Code 12, indicating the ECM has detected no internal faults.
Three flashes, a pause, then two flashes would be code 32.
Five flashes, a pause, then four flashes would be code 53.
Four flahses, a pause, then three flashes would code 43.
It's been awhile since I did this, but if memory serves, each code will be signaled three times before moving to the next. When the last code is signaled for the final time, the whole cycle starts over again with Code 12.
BUT - this does NOT apply to OBD systems in vehicles built post-96. For those, you need a code scanner. In fact, a flashing Check Engine light on a post-96 OBD system is usually a sign of a significant misfire.
