rjahl , Based on your latest response I did some searching on MSV80 DME Recovery Mode and found this link:
https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/...ptions.973512/
This link mentions some method for programming a DME in this particular state that was identified by
Terraphantm. I believe that I have scoured the forum for the post that mentions this method, but I haven't found anything.
The link implies that there is some type of failsafe programming period between the application of power to the DME and it booting into the non-programmable state. Does any of this ring-a-bell to you? Is there anything else we need to do first?