Request comments - pro and con - to allowing backdating of ECU's within same manufacturer.
I'm neither pro nor con yet. But on the surface, it seems that installations would be easier and probably cheaper. As these ECU's and electronic controls become more complex, the installations become more difficult. For instance, the new Honda... an older Honda ECU might make installation easier and less expensive.
I ran into this thought while installing an 08 R1 where I previously had an 06 R1 - to see if I could make the 08 engine run with the 06 throttle bodies (intake is free rule) and 06 ECU (ECU must remain stock). I ran into a frame structural interference issue with the 08 throttle bodies, and I am NOT cutting and rewelding a bunch of tubes (12 in all) to make this work. I made some throttle body extensions to raise the 08 type about 1" to clear the frame, but I don't like the integrity of the mount. So I am going to try to make the engine run with the older T/B's and electronics. I've also made up the 08 wiring harness and had the 08 ECU reflashed as the real route to go.
So... request thoughts - pro and con.