Tech 2 Clones
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 4,648
Likes: 1,059
From: N.E. Ohio OH
Finalist 2020 C4 of the Year - Modified
Tech 2 Clones
A while ago, well last year'ish there was at least one thread about Tech 2 clones and one of the gracious members of the Board gave me his source (which I have lost). I would like this thread to be about Tech 2 clones WITHOUT any extraneous comments please. We could start another one for discussions. I am hoping that if we get enough sources, feedbacks etc, that maybe this could be turned into a Sticky.
So if you have bought a Tech 2 clone, could you post links to the source (where you bought it from) and your experiences. Also any add ons you needed, so that other folks have a roadmap to follow for full functionality.
Thanks !
dc
here are 2 threads for reference also
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ese-clone.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...y-pleased.html
So if you have bought a Tech 2 clone, could you post links to the source (where you bought it from) and your experiences. Also any add ons you needed, so that other folks have a roadmap to follow for full functionality.
Thanks !
dc
here are 2 threads for reference also
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ese-clone.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...y-pleased.html
Last edited by drcook; Aug 15, 2020 at 08:46 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,192
Likes: 750
From: near the thumb in the mitten
Tech2 isn't really for the C4 as is came out in late 96. Tech1 is used for all but PCM. There was a Tech1 interface module for OBD2.
Bosch bought Vectronix who developed the Tech2. Bosch was actively pursuing illegal clone manufacturers a few years ago. IMO after a Google search Bosch was successful in stopping the availability of Vectronix clones.
The Tech2 has been obsolete for about 10 yrs so used ones should show up on various online marketplaces or local second hand retailers.
Bosch bought Vectronix who developed the Tech2. Bosch was actively pursuing illegal clone manufacturers a few years ago. IMO after a Google search Bosch was successful in stopping the availability of Vectronix clones.
The Tech2 has been obsolete for about 10 yrs so used ones should show up on various online marketplaces or local second hand retailers.
Last edited by Kevova; Aug 15, 2020 at 11:11 AM.
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 4,648
Likes: 1,059
From: N.E. Ohio OH
Finalist 2020 C4 of the Year - Modified
According to everything I can find and the ones for sale, Tech2's are good for 92 to 96.
In the above link I provided, one of the folks here used a Tech2 on his 96 and it worked on his.
I have a '96. It is OBDII. So C4 section IS APPROPRIATE. I want to activate the ABS valves, etc. If I can bleed the brakes and activate the ABS unit on my Vette and my 2004 Duramax, then it has paid for itself.
Here are lots of links to different Tech2. In the C4 forum link above. members grandspt and others were using the clones on their C4's.
I am interested (as would be others) how they have held up, what all is updateable, etc.
there are lots of them on eBay
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...ech+2&_sacat=0
https://www.dhgate.com/product/for-g...l|3578336873:4
https://www.chinacardiags.com/search/?q=Tech2+&DirID=
https://www.chinacardiags.com/wholes...lden-1011.html
https://www.obd2eshop.com/wholesale/...h-tis2000.html
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Tech2-II-Sc...IAAOSwz3JerRzM
In the above link I provided, one of the folks here used a Tech2 on his 96 and it worked on his.
I have a '96. It is OBDII. So C4 section IS APPROPRIATE. I want to activate the ABS valves, etc. If I can bleed the brakes and activate the ABS unit on my Vette and my 2004 Duramax, then it has paid for itself.
Here are lots of links to different Tech2. In the C4 forum link above. members grandspt and others were using the clones on their C4's.
I am interested (as would be others) how they have held up, what all is updateable, etc.
there are lots of them on eBay
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...ech+2&_sacat=0
https://www.dhgate.com/product/for-g...l|3578336873:4
https://www.chinacardiags.com/search/?q=Tech2+&DirID=
https://www.chinacardiags.com/wholes...lden-1011.html
https://www.obd2eshop.com/wholesale/...h-tis2000.html
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Tech2-II-Sc...IAAOSwz3JerRzM
Last edited by drcook; Aug 15, 2020 at 02:17 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 961
Likes: 237
From: Diamondhead Mississippi
St. Jude Donor '17-'18-'19-'20-'21-'22
I purchased a Tech 2 last year from aliexpress.com last year. It does not work on my 88 but I have a Snapon MT 2500 for that. I have used it several times on my C6 and have no issues with it. I believe I paid around $280 shipped for it. It even comes with all of the stickers to make it look exactly like a Tech 2. Fairly quick shipping then but may be different now with the Covid 19 issues.
Also works great on my 2011 Silverado.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/tech2-diagnostic-tool-for-G-M-SAAB-OPEL-SUZUKI-ISUZU-Holden-g-m-tech-2-scanner/32891727209.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.4 0e44c4d0WLDgY
Also works great on my 2011 Silverado.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/tech2-diagnostic-tool-for-G-M-SAAB-OPEL-SUZUKI-ISUZU-Holden-g-m-tech-2-scanner/32891727209.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.4 0e44c4d0WLDgY
Last edited by cdm747; Aug 15, 2020 at 03:52 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,478
Likes: 254
From: Downers Grove Illinois
I am one of the people who purchased a Tech 2 clone and it works great with my '92. Most of the vendors are from China and a couple months after I ordered mine and got it I cannot find that vendor. I think unless you buy from a vendor in the US that has been around for a while don't be surprised if they disappear in a short while. I think they just change names over time. There are supposed to be some better built than others and the bad ones have a DC to DC converter that can go out. Not real hard to put in a good one, so I have a new DC to DC convertor for it if I ever need one. It does come with an adapter for OBD I. What surprised me is that is supports my brother's LSA engine he got for his '67 Chevelle.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 6,930
Likes: 1,487
From: New Jersey
My understanding is the tech 2 will work on the LT1 cars. It will support vehicles earlier than 92 but its oddball stuff. For the most part 92 and up does work with it.
I got my clone off aliexpress. Seller no longer sells however.
I got my clone off aliexpress. Seller no longer sells however.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,348
Likes: 289
From: MA
My Tech 2 clone has been working great and it has saved me money.
The Tech 2 clone has been an invaluable tool for me. From misfire diagnostics, IAC stepper counts (after installing an aftermarket throttle body), tuning for a cam change, a reference 5VDC problem ( turned out to be the AC high pressure sensor shorted).
I successfully programmed two PCMs that I bought off eBay for a decent price and made them work for my LT4 (I now have spare PCMs as backups). These were LT1 PCMs from a 1996 Camaro and the other a 1996 Corvette.
The Tech 2 clone has been an invaluable tool for me. From misfire diagnostics, IAC stepper counts (after installing an aftermarket throttle body), tuning for a cam change, a reference 5VDC problem ( turned out to be the AC high pressure sensor shorted).
I successfully programmed two PCMs that I bought off eBay for a decent price and made them work for my LT4 (I now have spare PCMs as backups). These were LT1 PCMs from a 1996 Camaro and the other a 1996 Corvette.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
10 Revolutionary 'Corvette Firsts' Most People Don't Know
Joe Kucinski
5 Reasons to Upgrade to an LS6-Powered Corvette; 5 Reasons to Stay LT2
Michael S. Palmer
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every C8 vs Its Closest Competitor
Joe Kucinski
10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!
Joe Kucinski
5 MOST and 5 LEAST Popular Corvette Model Years in History!
Joe Kucinski
2027 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Everything You Need to Know!
Joe Kucinski
10 Things C8 Corvette Owners Hate (But Won't Tell You)
Joe Kucinski
10 Best Corvettes Coming to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2026!
Brett Foote
Every Corvette Grand Sport Explained! (C2, C4, C6, C7, & C8)
Joe Kucinski
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 4,648
Likes: 1,059
From: N.E. Ohio OH
Finalist 2020 C4 of the Year - Modified
My Tech 2 clone has been working great and it has saved me money.
The Tech 2 clone has been an invaluable tool for me. From misfire diagnostics, IAC stepper counts (after installing an aftermarket throttle body), tuning for a cam change, a reference 5VDC problem ( turned out to be the AC high pressure sensor shorted).
I successfully programmed two PCMs that I bought off eBay for a decent price and made them work for my LT4 (I now have spare PCMs as backups). These were LT1 PCMs from a 1996 Camaro and the other a 1996 Corvette.
The Tech 2 clone has been an invaluable tool for me. From misfire diagnostics, IAC stepper counts (after installing an aftermarket throttle body), tuning for a cam change, a reference 5VDC problem ( turned out to be the AC high pressure sensor shorted).
I successfully programmed two PCMs that I bought off eBay for a decent price and made them work for my LT4 (I now have spare PCMs as backups). These were LT1 PCMs from a 1996 Camaro and the other a 1996 Corvette.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,348
Likes: 289
From: MA
I bought it off of eBay and it was a US seller that at the time had them in stock. I can't find the original order on eBay as it has been a while.
I almost ordered from Chinacardiag.com, they were cheaper but it would have taken longer to receive it.
I remember that there were three versions; a cheap one around $275 and it didn't come with the Candi module. Then a mid priced one which is what I purchased that was complete for around $350. And the more expensive unit for $450 that had a carrying case.
I did purchase a 5 volt regulator on eBay just in case I had any issues with the clone. But I have had no problems thus far.
I almost ordered from Chinacardiag.com, they were cheaper but it would have taken longer to receive it.
I remember that there were three versions; a cheap one around $275 and it didn't come with the Candi module. Then a mid priced one which is what I purchased that was complete for around $350. And the more expensive unit for $450 that had a carrying case.
I did purchase a 5 volt regulator on eBay just in case I had any issues with the clone. But I have had no problems thus far.
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 985
Likes: 17
From: St. Louis Missouri
Chinacardiag.com doesn't take too long to ship. I think it was 1-2 weeks.That was a couple years ago. You can tell it's not as heavy as a Genuine one and the buttons take more pressure to push. When you are changing modules and cables, it takes more force to get them seated. It works, though. You will be glad you have one, clone or not, if you need it. I've loaned it to friends, also.You can get factory calibrations from TIS2000 with the supplied software and instructions. There are a bunch of different versions. I don't remember which one I bought, probably the cheapest one. After I got mine, I read that some are better than others.
Racer
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 261
Likes: 2
From: Boise Idaho
After spending 2 months tracking down what turned out to be a bad crank sensor in my LS2, I got fed up and ordered the Chinacardiag.com Tech2 clone; took 8 days via DHL.
I threw a new sensor at the LS2 and fixed it the day before the Tech2 came. However, I have a few GM rigs 96 and up; the Tech 2 clone has been invaluable; ABS bleeding is impossible without one. Highly recommend.
I threw a new sensor at the LS2 and fixed it the day before the Tech2 came. However, I have a few GM rigs 96 and up; the Tech 2 clone has been invaluable; ABS bleeding is impossible without one. Highly recommend.