1990 Code Scanner/Reader Suggestions
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 39
Likes: 9
1990 Code Scanner/Reader Suggestions
So, I had the day off and decided to play with my '90 Corvette. I borrowed/rented a Tech2 from a local trusting mechanic in hopes to set my idle speed and throttle position sensor. It didn't work out, as the Tech2 only goes back to '91. I am looking to be able to look at live data, similar to the Tech2. I believe that there are programs that can use my laptop with an OBD1 adapter.
So, after a fair amount of research I am reasonably confused. There is a lot of confusing and contradictory information out there regarding compatible scanners for a 1990.
What I am hoping for is a recommendation for a scanner/reader for a 1990 from someone who actually has, or had a '90 that he knows for certain will work. It seems that the 1990 was sort of a transition year for the code readers...
I know a Tech1 and a Tech1a will work, but I can't find one that is in my price range. What about other options?
Thanks,
Tim in Mass
So, after a fair amount of research I am reasonably confused. There is a lot of confusing and contradictory information out there regarding compatible scanners for a 1990.
What I am hoping for is a recommendation for a scanner/reader for a 1990 from someone who actually has, or had a '90 that he knows for certain will work. It seems that the 1990 was sort of a transition year for the code readers...
I know a Tech1 and a Tech1a will work, but I can't find one that is in my price range. What about other options?
Thanks,
Tim in Mass
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 4,564
Likes: 1,676
From my recollection, you can still access plenty of data with the Tech2 by selecting 91. Not much changed between 90 & 91.
But the best option would be to purchase a Tech1, if you are planning on keeping the car
But the best option would be to purchase a Tech1, if you are planning on keeping the car
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2018
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From: Michigan
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: Hartford WI
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 4,564
Likes: 1,676
Tech1, you are able to control the car instead of just scanning or data logging. Each have their place, but when you go through some of the diagnostic charts and they reference a Tech1 to control a parameter, scanners just can't do that.
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 226
Likes: 43
From: New Jersey
So, I had the day off and decided to play with my '90 Corvette. I borrowed/rented a Tech2 from a local trusting mechanic in hopes to set my idle speed and throttle position sensor. It didn't work out, as the Tech2 only goes back to '91. I am looking to be able to look at live data, similar to the Tech2. I believe that there are programs that can use my laptop with an OBD1 adapter.
So, after a fair amount of research I am reasonably confused. There is a lot of confusing and contradictory information out there regarding compatible scanners for a 1990.
What I am hoping for is a recommendation for a scanner/reader for a 1990 from someone who actually has, or had a '90 that he knows for certain will work. It seems that the 1990 was sort of a transition year for the code readers...
I know a Tech1 and a Tech1a will work, but I can't find one that is in my price range. What about other options?
Thanks,
Tim in Mass
So, after a fair amount of research I am reasonably confused. There is a lot of confusing and contradictory information out there regarding compatible scanners for a 1990.
What I am hoping for is a recommendation for a scanner/reader for a 1990 from someone who actually has, or had a '90 that he knows for certain will work. It seems that the 1990 was sort of a transition year for the code readers...
I know a Tech1 and a Tech1a will work, but I can't find one that is in my price range. What about other options?
Thanks,
Tim in Mass
The only thing I have not figured out is how to read any sort of data from the CCM. I had an interest in seeing if the CCM had been swapped and what VIN number was stored in there. The setup I have doesn't have any way to do so that I've found yet, but I know that folks with Tech1 setups can read out the VIN. Don't know if there's other functionality that goes along with CCM communication or not (or even if that's of interest to you).
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 226
Likes: 43
From: New Jersey
Are you aware of any source where they are readily available still? I'm never 100% sure if the various things I find on eBay would be complete.
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