I'm in the market for a code reader/scanner for my '93 but am not sure which particular one would be best. I would like a quality scanner for home use...any opinions on which one(s) are good?

And about how much can I expect to pay for a quality scanner? Thanks. :)

 

Best price I've seen so far but I'm still looking.
http://www.autocheckup.com/Merchant2...tegory_Code=ST

 

If you want something to pull and clear codes, I recommend the $40 dollar unit designed by Gordon Killebrew and sold by Mid America Design. This unit comes with good instructions, you can pull codes, and can be used to clear codes requiring several "on/off" cycles where timing is extremely important.

Now scanners are a different story. Scanners are capable of "reading" what the computer is seeing. For example, throttle positions my be reported in volts and % opening. Like .56volts/0% throttle (as in idle, etc). You can buy software and hardware hookups that use laptops or some lower end scanners my be model specific, ie GM 83-95, etc. OBDII computer capable scanners are usually more expensive as they require more software. Mid level scanners may or may not be capable of "bidirectional control". This feature is found on better scanners. Ball park figure ah lets's say $80-$300 for scanner capable of reading sensors. You may or may not have to provide a laptop. Software may be model specific, ie GM 83-95, etc. Auto Xray, Sears stuff, many good examples.

A better scanner is one where you can read several lines of data, have bidirectional control and several diagnostic software routines. There are OBD1 scanners that can do this and OBDII (say around 96 and up)scanners are almost certain to have additional features. This is where you and the software can say, "Turn on Fan #1", hit the right key, the scanner checks for the correct ground, and the fan should come on, unless the fan motor is bad (as in my case). The more models and years it covers, more money. Snap on scanners, Model 2500, Tech 1A's, other manufacturers service equipment etc are examples. Some software supports multiple manufacturers and you provide the laptop

Now some considerations. I will assume you have a factory service manual. If not, stop here, buy one. Scanners without service manuals just give you numbers. You need to be able to analyze the numbers based on the manufacturers design.

Another consideration is cost, although there are ways to get extra value. Auctions. Can find really good deals. Bought a Tech1A, connectors, software through 96, $100, sold. My deal of the day at a GM truck dealership, (selling out auction). That same day a Snap On scanner with 2000 software sold for $525.

If you plan to use the scanner on more than one car or even a different manufacturer, this can be a significant factor in your selection.

My personal preference was to buy a used Snap On scanner, Model 2500 with the combination domestic cartridge-thru model year 97. Got it from the Snap On man, $625US. Had lots of books and lots of connectors. Would work on my Ford, Dodge truck, and the Corvette. Fair amount of money. If you are working on one car, you can get by a LOT cheaper with software and a laptop. If you elect ebay, you may get a Snap On scanner with the 93 software for around $400, who knows. If you start thinking about bidding, do your homework on scanner software and cartridges. One thing about the MT2500 scanner, you can upgrade cartridges as you upgrade your cars.

In summary, code pullers can be a paper clip up to the $40 dollar unit.
Scanners, little more money $80-$300. (Auto Xray, Auto tap)
Really good scanners, more money. (Used Snap On, Tech 1A, Tech2)

Hope I haven't bored you. Love scanners. Let us know if you have more questions. Check the Idaho Corvette site, Hib Halverson has an excellent article on scanners, code pullers, test equipment in general.

DL Meyers 90 coupe zf6 3 speed shocks

 

I have a very useful scanner that I used when I was tuning my '91 Z28. I have sold that car now and don't need this anymore. It will read codes, but it is also a scanner cabable of reading out whatever your computer sees. Very useful tool.

$150 shipped to your door.

Actron ScanTool CP9110 and GM Cartridge CP9111 (84-95 OBD I). Paid $330.




zbra@bellsouth.net if you are interested. :cheers: