what do I need to data log a 89 vette and where do I buy the items?
Thanks

 

Are you only interested in the engine parameters
or do you want to track vehicle dynamics and
other metrics?

.

 

engine parameters

 

Craig Moates' site has hardware and links. I use one of his
cables with 'TunerPro' software.

Others here like Datamaster. I'll let those who are
more experienced chime in.

If you want to talk about vehicle dynamics (and
soon it will be able to log engine parameters) ask
me about RacePak's 'G2 Extreme'.

.

 

what do I need to purchase?

 

For basic datalogging, you'll need:

1. A computer or a laptop (preferred).
The computer should be equipped with a serial COM port (some people have had success with USB-to-serial adaptors, but they are still iffy in my books). You don't need anything super-fast, just reliable and powerful enough to run (as a minimum) Windows95. I got myself a Panasonic Toughbook off of eBay for $50 - rugged, dependable, and with a 150MHz P1 processor, it's plenty for datalogging duties.

2. An ALDL interface cable.
Craig Motes sells them, as does AKM Cables. You can also build your own, but I wouldn't advise it unless you're good with electronics. For the effort and cost, it's best to just buy a good quality cable. (NOTE: for '89, the cable you'll need will have to be equipped with a 10kOhm resistor. You'll see what I mean when you start doing your research )

3. Software.
This is typically freeware, especially if all you want to do is just datalog - no programming. WinALDL is a good choice, but there are others.

4. Time.
There is a lot of information with respect to this subject, so take the time to read through as much as you can get your hands on. Check out the C4 Scan/Tune section of the forum - you will definitely find a lot more indept information there.

That's about it for basic datalogging activities. We're talking about $150 worth of items to purchase (assuming you get a cheap laptop for $50 off eBay like I did, get a good quality ALDL interface cable for about $100, and use freeware like WinALDL to do your actual datalogging).

When you get into programming your own ECM is when you get into additional and equippment (EPROM programmer like the Pocket Programmer II, tunning software like TunerCAT, spare PROMs, etc...).

 

It's not rocket science, if i can build the cable , anyone can
Less than $5 in parts and i was able to fit all the parts into the RS connector
Serial data line is "E" on aldl