I'm looking at transplanting my F20C into an old BMW chasis I have (a 2002, model that is) and my question is in regards to the operation of the key that coresponds to the ECU. Do I have to have the entire loom from ignition box for the ECU to "see" the keys anti-theft chip or is this a wireless feature. On the same lines, how can I hardwire the ECU on my engine run stand without any further wiring other than the engine harness (and obviously electical power). Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

PM fyrestrike. He transplanted an S2000 engine into a Miata.

 

I'm guessing you don't want to run an aftermarket ECU?

A member by the name of Lotus7racer (I believe) transplanted one into a an old Lotus7. But he didn't go OEM ecu.

You might need to wire up the ignition cylinder from an S if you plan to run it outside of an S with a factory ECU.

 

Thanks guys. I recall seeing a pic of a key in a ignition cylinder/lockset for an engine that was for sale. How difficult is it to remove this from the steering column?

Yes, I would prefer to use the stock ECU if possible. I've learned along time ago that OEM is generally speaking the most reliable electrical components.