Scanners re-visited (Again!)
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 286
Likes: 0
From: Alpine California
Scanners re-visited (Again!)
So I want to get a scanner, but I need both OBDI and OBDII capability. I did a search on this on both this forum, and the Scan and Tune forum, but really didn't get the info I was looking for. I either want to get a lap top based setup, or the Autoxray EZ Scan 6000. I primarily want to use it for Diagnostics right now, but might eventually try to get into a little tuning. I can get a surplus laptop here at work for $250.00, which makes that option a little more appealing, but the only software my search brought up was the Auto Tap, and it's OBDII only. I will primarily be using this on OBDI vehicles (1987 Corvette, 1989 Lincoln, 1993 Camaro), but will also need to use it on my son's 1997 Ford Ranger (which is OBDII). I would like to stay around/ under $500.00, and I would like a data logging/ real time display of sensor readings (I hear the Autoxray EZ Scan 6000 may not be so good at this). I'm also a little confused as to the difference / importance of the " Supports multiple trouble code requests, generic codes (mode 3), pending codes (mode 7), enhanced codes (mode 13)" feature of the EZ Scan 6000, which seems to be the only difference between it and the EZ Scan 5000. Any suggestions / reccomendations? Thank's guy's, I know this comes up way to often, but I'm really confused!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 8,753
Likes: 9
From: Louisiana
From my recent experence and homework researching this, it will be better to get a laptop setup. It shows more on the screen where as the Autoxray you have to scroll through the data. I have not used a Autoxray and am only going by what other have told me and what I have used. You will need a laptop first, one with a USB port. Craig Moates is who I talked to on the phone and ordered his equipement for my 86. You will need a USB to ALDL converter (50.00) and OBDI cable (30.00) and for your case a OBDII cable as well. You can contact Craig and he will get you set up with what you need (real nice guy). I will post below some of the comments I received on threads I started about this. Others will chime in with more technical info.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1422874
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1407324
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1380382
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1422874
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1407324
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1380382
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,629
Likes: 28
From: FL
Originally Posted by Blownfuel1
So I want to get a scanner, but I need both OBDI and OBDII capability. I did a search on this on both this forum, and the Scan and Tune forum, but really didn't get the info I was looking for. I either want to get a lap top based setup, or the Autoxray EZ Scan 6000. I primarily want to use it for Diagnostics right now, but might eventually try to get into a little tuning. I can get a surplus laptop here at work for $250.00, which makes that option a little more appealing, but the only software my search brought up was the Auto Tap, and it's OBDII only. I will primarily be using this on OBDI vehicles (1987 Corvette, 1989 Lincoln, 1993 Camaro), but will also need to use it on my son's 1997 Ford Ranger (which is OBDII). I would like to stay around/ under $500.00, and I would like a data logging/ real time display of sensor readings (I hear the Autoxray EZ Scan 6000 may not be so good at this). I'm also a little confused as to the difference / importance of the " Supports multiple trouble code requests, generic codes (mode 3), pending codes (mode 7), enhanced codes (mode 13)" feature of the EZ Scan 6000, which seems to be the only difference between it and the EZ Scan 5000. Any suggestions / reccomendations? Thank's guy's, I know this comes up way to often, but I'm really confused!
Instructor
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 132
Likes: 0
From: Torrington CT
I brought the Autoaray 6000for my 85 with all the bells and whistles. I can even do the software upgrades over the internet and am having problems. Just got an answer from them that there is a software issue that is unresolved for me at this time. I spent the bucks for nothing.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 7
From: Metairie Louisiana
I use my laptop with TTS Datamaster and TunerCat software with a custom tune from PCMFORLESS for my 95. It is the best setup you can have IMO. I don't know if it is best for your applications though or if it will work on all your cars. Visit the websites for info on the software.
Good Luck
Good Luck
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,629
Likes: 28
From: FL
Originally Posted by Fasterer
I brought the Autoaray 6000for my 85 with all the bells and whistles. I can even do the software upgrades over the internet and am having problems. Just got an answer from them that there is a software issue that is unresolved for me at this time. I spent the bucks for nothing.
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,118
Likes: 0
From: St. Charles, MO Route 66 Corvette Club
Blownfuel1: I have been on the same path as you in that I am looking for software to scan my 89 (I already have the laptop). A local Corvette friend (who does tuning) has scanned my car with a software package called Turbo Link and here is the web site : http://www.turbo-link.com/tlink/details/cattlp40.html
This software and cable package costs $295 and worked great on my car. I plan to buy this package.
This software and cable package costs $295 and worked great on my car. I plan to buy this package.
Instructor
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 132
Likes: 0
From: Torrington CT
Won't scan my 85 properly. One thing is i keep getting is a code 36 shift problem. Code 36 is not a shift code on an 85. By grounding diag plug i had a 42,43 in memory that the ez 6000 never even picked up. I no longer trust it for my vet. Thats what prompted the purchase of the cable to up load the latest software that did not fix my issues.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 286
Likes: 0
From: Alpine California
Thanks Guys,
Think I'm going to stay away from the AutoXray, probably go with the laptop set up, but I have noticed some pretty good deals on used Snap On MT 2500 scanners on Ebay lately, and I've used them without problems on Vettes, but I haven't used one a whole lot . Anybody have any comments on them?
Think I'm going to stay away from the AutoXray, probably go with the laptop set up, but I have noticed some pretty good deals on used Snap On MT 2500 scanners on Ebay lately, and I've used them without problems on Vettes, but I haven't used one a whole lot . Anybody have any comments on them?
Last edited by Blownfuel1; Aug 11, 2006 at 02:01 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 824
Likes: 2
From: Camden SC
Anybody have any comments on them?[/QUOTE]
I use the SnapOn MT 2500.(And occasionally a Tec1A) and like the MT2500 for general repairs.
Indeed, they are getting cheaper. They have discontinued the model but there are thousands around and SnapOn is providing some support, but not much. There are several units, older style no back lighting, backlighting, color, whatever.
For your application, you will need a minimum of two cartridges. The domesitc from 83-95, and the most recent OBII you can find. I also have the 1996-2000 cartridge(along with the 83-95)and it covers eveything I own, for now.
The OBDI connectors can get expensive. Buy a unit with lots of connectors. Make sure you get one with an OBD2 connector.
Snap On has an updated cartridge that flashes memory but are around $600-$1000, if you can find one. For your applications, should be able to find a good unit for under $500. There is plenty of documentation on these units and they are still in use by lots of professionals. Consider finding a SnapOn truck and asking about any used units, that is how I got mine. Go informed and try to get an Ebay price.
I love mine. It has paid for itself.
dlmeyers 90 coupe zf6 3 speed shocks
I use the SnapOn MT 2500.(And occasionally a Tec1A) and like the MT2500 for general repairs.
Indeed, they are getting cheaper. They have discontinued the model but there are thousands around and SnapOn is providing some support, but not much. There are several units, older style no back lighting, backlighting, color, whatever.
For your application, you will need a minimum of two cartridges. The domesitc from 83-95, and the most recent OBII you can find. I also have the 1996-2000 cartridge(along with the 83-95)and it covers eveything I own, for now.
The OBDI connectors can get expensive. Buy a unit with lots of connectors. Make sure you get one with an OBD2 connector.
Snap On has an updated cartridge that flashes memory but are around $600-$1000, if you can find one. For your applications, should be able to find a good unit for under $500. There is plenty of documentation on these units and they are still in use by lots of professionals. Consider finding a SnapOn truck and asking about any used units, that is how I got mine. Go informed and try to get an Ebay price.
I love mine. It has paid for itself.
dlmeyers 90 coupe zf6 3 speed shocks
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 14,130
Likes: 7
Cruise-In II Veteran
Originally Posted by Fasterer
Won't scan my 85 properly. One thing is i keep getting is a code 36 shift problem. Code 36 is not a shift code on an 85. By grounding diag plug i had a 42,43 in memory that the ez 6000 never even picked up. I no longer trust it for my vet. Thats what prompted the purchase of the cable to up load the latest software that did not fix my issues.
Dont know...I would find out if that has anything to do with it,being an older ecm and model.
Drifting
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 1,478
Likes: 3
From: Sacramento, CA Money can't buy happiness - but it's more comfortable to cry in a Corvette than a Yugo.
Ease Diagnostics sells a laptop based scan tool for OBD1 and OBD2. It is the only laptop based scan tool the CA Bureau of Automotive Repair uses to teach their inspectors on. I know because I sold them the tools.
The Ease GM OBD1 scan tool will scan ALL GM OBD1 vehicles using the GM specific powertrain parameters. The Ease GM OBD2 scan tool will scan ALL GM OBD2 vehicles. You can scan and record hours of data. You can show the current and playback data streams in meter, number read-out, or chart mode. The OBD2 tool will let you actuate/disable all kinds of powertrain components while the car is running using bi-directional control. Depending on the model and year, it includes the transmission, ABS/ASR, and CCM controller parameter sets, as well as the vehicle's powertrain specific parameter sets. You can even get a wireless interface unit, so that while the interface is in the car, the laptop can be 50-100 feet away.
I would be glad to send an HTML write-up showing screen captures of the OBD1 tool in actual use on my 88 Vette. I used it to solve a faulty ECM problem. I can get a 10% discount for anyone interested. PM or email me.
The Ease GM OBD1 scan tool will scan ALL GM OBD1 vehicles using the GM specific powertrain parameters. The Ease GM OBD2 scan tool will scan ALL GM OBD2 vehicles. You can scan and record hours of data. You can show the current and playback data streams in meter, number read-out, or chart mode. The OBD2 tool will let you actuate/disable all kinds of powertrain components while the car is running using bi-directional control. Depending on the model and year, it includes the transmission, ABS/ASR, and CCM controller parameter sets, as well as the vehicle's powertrain specific parameter sets. You can even get a wireless interface unit, so that while the interface is in the car, the laptop can be 50-100 feet away.
I would be glad to send an HTML write-up showing screen captures of the OBD1 tool in actual use on my 88 Vette. I used it to solve a faulty ECM problem. I can get a 10% discount for anyone interested. PM or email me.
