Opinions on Scanner
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 715
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From: Warner Robins GA
Opinions on Scanner
I'm looking for a good cheap scanner so that I can finally diagnose some problems properly instead of blindly throwing parts at my car.
I'm seeing the Autoxray XP240 for GM on ebay for about a hundred bucks, but I'm wondering if it'll do all I need it to. I know Autoxray makes a bunch of other models with a bunch of other connections, but none of my other cars have ODBI or II so all I need is GM ODBI for my 88.
Is there any reason I shouldn't use this scanner, or can someone recommend an alternative for a similar price? I looked through the archives for "XP240" and came up empty handed.
I'm seeing the Autoxray XP240 for GM on ebay for about a hundred bucks, but I'm wondering if it'll do all I need it to. I know Autoxray makes a bunch of other models with a bunch of other connections, but none of my other cars have ODBI or II so all I need is GM ODBI for my 88.
Is there any reason I shouldn't use this scanner, or can someone recommend an alternative for a similar price? I looked through the archives for "XP240" and came up empty handed.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 827
Likes: 1
From: Henderson NV
Re: Opinions on Scanner (Tourney3p0)
To be honest, the scan codes for 84-91 are somewhat limited. I have the the Auto XRay that I scan my engines with occasionally and so far, everything is as it should be. The L98 is not that complicated, but there are certain codes that lead you in the right direction quickly. The thing to remember, is if you don't have a factory manual, the scanner isn't going to do you much good. The troubleshooting charts in the manual step you through the process once a code is thrown. The scanner is a tool that eliminates having to step through the process of scanning with out jumpering your computer outlet, and reading (counting) the flashes on the driver info center.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Warner Robins GA
Re: Opinions on Scanner (vetteseniorcit)
Thanks for the reply.
I have a factory manual that details all the trouble codes. However, I'd rather just use the paper clip trick to pull codes.. I can't see paying over a hundred bucks for a fancy paper clip.
I'm more interested in a scanner than a code reader.. (ie, what value is my oxygen sensor reporting right now?)
I have a factory manual that details all the trouble codes. However, I'd rather just use the paper clip trick to pull codes.. I can't see paying over a hundred bucks for a fancy paper clip.
I'm more interested in a scanner than a code reader.. (ie, what value is my oxygen sensor reporting right now?)
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.
Re: Opinions on Scanner (Tourney3p0)
Tourney3p0,
What i believe you are looking for is a more sophisticated tool like a laptop scan tool. There are fewer choices for an 88 OBD1 than there are for the OBD2 vehicles, but there are still some very good tools available. The more sophisticated tools command a higher price however. (Except Craig Moates scan tool which is FREE.)
Check out the following OBD1 friendly sites:
1) Ease Simulations at http://www.easesim.com
2) Diacom at http://www.rinda.com/
3) Do-it-yourselfer EFI page at http://www.diy-efi.org/
4) Craig Moates Software at http://members.tripod.com/moatesenheimer/gmecm/
5) Cables for Craigs software available at AKM Page http://www.mindspring.com/~amattei/dss.htm
As a rep for Ease, I give CF members a rebate of 10% on Ease scan tools ordered through me.
Mike
mike_88z51@yahoo.com
What i believe you are looking for is a more sophisticated tool like a laptop scan tool. There are fewer choices for an 88 OBD1 than there are for the OBD2 vehicles, but there are still some very good tools available. The more sophisticated tools command a higher price however. (Except Craig Moates scan tool which is FREE.)
Check out the following OBD1 friendly sites:
1) Ease Simulations at http://www.easesim.com
2) Diacom at http://www.rinda.com/
3) Do-it-yourselfer EFI page at http://www.diy-efi.org/
4) Craig Moates Software at http://members.tripod.com/moatesenheimer/gmecm/
5) Cables for Craigs software available at AKM Page http://www.mindspring.com/~amattei/dss.htm
As a rep for Ease, I give CF members a rebate of 10% on Ease scan tools ordered through me.
Mike
mike_88z51@yahoo.com
