scantool question
Intermediate
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: San Antonio TX
Re: scantool question (Petros89)
Well, I'm still pretty new at this, but since no one else has replied I'll share what I've discovered. WinALDL is a free scanner and seems to work for the most part. Occasionally it has given me some connection problems, but what do you want for free! I have also gotten the eval version of DataMaster and it has worked flawlessly. I hate to pay for anything (I'm cheap), but I might invest in this. Still investigating: hope this helps a little, please let me know what your experience brings. :p:
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 115
Likes: 0
From: syosset ny
Re: scantool question (89TexasVette)
Thanks Texasvette.Since i am not that good with PC's i am looking at the Autoxray.I want to set my timing and see what the knock sensor is doing.I sent an email to a company that sells the Autoxray to see if i can set the timing with the scan tool but didn't get an answer yet.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 1,636
Likes: 3
From: Lafayette IN
Re: scantool question (Petros89)
On an 89, you won't be setting your initial timing with a scan tool.
Setting ignition timing on pre-92's involves physically moving the distributor. Well, not like into the hatch area, but you gotta turn it. In order to set timing correctly, you have to disconnect a set timing connector (SPOUT if you are familiar with Fords).
A scantool will still show complete timing when this wire is disconnected even though the engine will not get it (kinda floats into the neverlands). Therefore you gotta use the good ole timing light to see what your base timing is set at.
Another thing to note-AutoXRAY likely will show spark relative to 0 and relative to initial. i.e. if your initial is at 6* and your computer is adding 13* then your scanner is going to show 138 in one place and 198 in another place of the same data sample. BUT if you set your initial to 10*, XRay is still going to show the same thing because the 6* is what the chip in the ECM is telling the scantool to report.
Long story short.
1) You need a timing light for L98's.
2) Don't confuse shown advance with advance from 0 if you are at a different initial.
3) The inductive lead of a timing light can burn on your manifold. This includes the really kick-butt dial-back lights.
4) After setting the timing correctly, a code will be thrown.
5) Don't forget to connect the 'SPOUT' connector when you are done but before clearing the code.
Good luck. -Matt-
Edited because Corvettes don't have back seats :nono:
[Modified by HighHopes85, 6:06 AM 1/7/2003]
Setting ignition timing on pre-92's involves physically moving the distributor. Well, not like into the hatch area, but you gotta turn it. In order to set timing correctly, you have to disconnect a set timing connector (SPOUT if you are familiar with Fords).
A scantool will still show complete timing when this wire is disconnected even though the engine will not get it (kinda floats into the neverlands). Therefore you gotta use the good ole timing light to see what your base timing is set at.
Another thing to note-AutoXRAY likely will show spark relative to 0 and relative to initial. i.e. if your initial is at 6* and your computer is adding 13* then your scanner is going to show 138 in one place and 198 in another place of the same data sample. BUT if you set your initial to 10*, XRay is still going to show the same thing because the 6* is what the chip in the ECM is telling the scantool to report.
Long story short.
1) You need a timing light for L98's.
2) Don't confuse shown advance with advance from 0 if you are at a different initial.
3) The inductive lead of a timing light can burn on your manifold. This includes the really kick-butt dial-back lights.
4) After setting the timing correctly, a code will be thrown.
5) Don't forget to connect the 'SPOUT' connector when you are done but before clearing the code.
Good luck. -Matt-
Edited because Corvettes don't have back seats :nono:
[Modified by HighHopes85, 6:06 AM 1/7/2003]
