The Scantools, OBD II Readers, and Programmers Thread
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Clayton MI
Those tools I linked range from around $140 up to about $250 on ebay. The Autel unit is the most expensive. That unit is basically a step down from their MaxiDAS unit. It runs the same software, just lacks full bi-directional capability. Obviously tht would be nice, but that's when you get into the $2k+ range.
The 2 Actron unit are quite similar. The CP9185 has OBD-I support as well if you purchase the extra cables. However, the CP 9580A has ABS support. Otherwise they appear quite similar.
The 2 Actron unit are quite similar. The CP9185 has OBD-I support as well if you purchase the extra cables. However, the CP 9580A has ABS support. Otherwise they appear quite similar.
Captain
Joined: Jun 2010
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From: Michigan
I don't know a whole lot about the MT2500, other than it's an older tool but was the go-to for a long time. I get a little confused when looking at the various cartridges. Primary vs troubleshooter. I used one once during an automotive class I took.
Administrator
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From: Clayton MI
Primary has the info that lets the tool chat with the computer in question, troubleshooter has the database for troubleshooting any codes that come up. I think it only works on vehicles up to 2000? or so though...... (when the solus came out.....)
Captain
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From: Michigan
Do you know anything about the personality keys that snap-on uses?
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Clayton MI
I think that not every manufacturer uses the same pin-out on the connector, nor do they all communicate in the same way..... everyone has their own format, just the shape of the connector is the same. 
Captain
Joined: Jun 2010
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From: Michigan
So there's a MTG2500 on ebay ending in about 2 hours. It has a bunch of OBD1 connectors, OBD2 and several keys. Has the Primary cart from 96 to 2000 for GM/Chrysler/Ford/Jeep, another primary for same that says THRU 99, asian import comm software, domestic troubleshooter thru 2k, and asian troubleshooter thru 2k.
Sitting at 200 + 20 shipping atm. They say no power cord so they have been unable to test. Doesn't the brick run off OBD port power source?
Sitting at 200 + 20 shipping atm. They say no power cord so they have been unable to test. Doesn't the brick run off OBD port power source?
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Clayton MI
For OBDII, yes, for OBDI, it needs the power adapter. There are also batteries in it... which are evidently dead..... think I would pass on that one, and find one that can be verified to actually work. They run about 400 or so for the complete kit, including the nice case.
Or, if you have a laptop, just spend 50 bucks for a cable, and get the software for free.
Or, if you have a laptop, just spend 50 bucks for a cable, and get the software for free.
Captain
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 743
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From: Michigan
For OBDII, yes, for OBDI, it needs the power adapter. There are also batteries in it... which are evidently dead..... think I would pass on that one, and find one that can be verified to actually work. They run about 400 or so for the complete kit, including the nice case.
Or, if you have a laptop, just spend 50 bucks for a cable, and get the software for free.
Or, if you have a laptop, just spend 50 bucks for a cable, and get the software for free.
I like the idea of bi-directional, which the mt2500 covers, but this is also my first scan tool so... I guess I don't know if I NEED bi-directional.
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Clayton MI
Yeah, if you don't have the correct key, you don't talk to the computer. Simple as that.
I have PCMScan, but, no cable as yet. The software is decent, (for free...) and you can get cables for 50 bucks or less. I think Steve Spoon also offers scanner software (TunerCat, or some such) and he has a good rep on the thridgen forums. (3rd gen camaro/firebird)
I have PCMScan, but, no cable as yet. The software is decent, (for free...) and you can get cables for 50 bucks or less. I think Steve Spoon also offers scanner software (TunerCat, or some such) and he has a good rep on the thridgen forums. (3rd gen camaro/firebird)