Mopowar

So when looking for a scanner what should I look for?

Will the scanner still work with no CEL on?

Will the scanner from Autozone or Oriely's work with no CEL?

Brad

 

I don't know what Autozone or Oreilley's carry, but basically you want the ability to view parameters inreal time. The ability to record real time data is nice to, and can be a safety feature. If you are driving and your truck exhibits a particular problem, it is easier to record the data and look at it when you stop, than it is to try to look at the scanner and the road at the same time.

 

Brad

have ya thought the PCM might be faulty?

a faulty computer will give ya faulse readings and make the engine run like a 3 legged dog.

I would suggest you follow the idea of a low cost scan tool or find a lap top and softawre to link with and run a diagnostics while driving.

 

This one is listed at Autozone:
http://www.actron.com/product_detail.php?pid=16318

It has all of the features that I would look for in a scanner in that price range. You will make out better on ebay or an online parts store like Summit or Jeggs.

 

but the engine runs great....except when I let off the gas under a load,like backing the boat into the back yard or pulling it out of the lake and letting off the gas it just dies or if I am a parking lot and I come to the street and let off the gas to stop it will die.

Thank you mopowar...I am going to start looking for one.

 

Mopowar

So what about one of these?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Actro...spagenameZWDVW

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Launc...spagenameZWDVW

 

Look into some of these. They are NOT code readers alone. I've got the Auto Tap and wouldn't want to be without it ever!

 

Here is another one...I think it has everything you said but it says "PLEASE NOTE: this scanner is not compatible with (CAN) Controller Area Network protocol. The Controller Area Network protocol is used by some 2004 and newer cars." This I know would not have anything to do with my truck...but what about the newer dodges (if I decide to get a new truck later )

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/OBD-I...spagenameZWDVW

This OBD II tool will display live data including temperatures, timing, fuel pressure, engine load and more.
It displays the codes and their description as well - no need to look up code description in a code book. [/align]This reader works on the following protocols:
[*]SAE J1850 - PWM[*]SAE J1850 - VPW[*]ISO 9141-2 [/ul][align=center]
[hr]
[/align]FEATURES [/align] [*]Works with 1996 and newer cars & trucks that are OBD II compliant (including the VPW, PWM and ISO protocols)[*]Reads and clears generic and manufacturer specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) and turns off check engine light[*]Trouble codes and code meanings display on the LCD display. No code book is needed.[*]Supports multiple trouble code requests: generic codes, pending codes and manufacturer's specific codes[*]Live Data Scanning[*]Reads Freeze Frame Data[*]Tests I/M Reading Status[*]Rescanning Data[*]Easy to use with one plug-in[*]Highly reliable and accurate[*]Easy-to-read crystal-clear backlit LCD display[*]Stand-alone unit with no need for an additional laptop computer to operate[*]Performs continuous DTC scan[*]Safely communicates with the on-board computer [/ul]
I know it sounds like I am being cheap but I also have to FIX it after I figure out what is wrong.[:@]

Brad

 

Just realized that the link I thought I posted; didn't. Try this for a rundown of several scantool sites. http://www.troublecodes.net/technical/scaninfo.shtml
WC

 

you can get an actron at advanced auto and auto zone that will read the vitals.. dont get the cheapo code reader.. get the more expensive one.. i think its 250 if yall are not so find of ebay and online crap.. but he is right.. ebay would be the way to go