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Best OBDII reader + software

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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 03:16 PM
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Default Best OBDII reader + software

Hello All,

I am looking to purchase an OBDII scanner, but also want to buy the software + cabeling to hook into my laptop. I would like to be able to view realtime data, tune certain aspects of the PCM, run diagnostics, and clear codes. Does anyone out there have any suggestions as to what I should get. Also, what are some of your experiences with such suggestions. This will be used on a 1999 1500 5spd 4x4 w/5.2.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 03:38 PM
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I have PCM scan, but, haven't actually had a chance to use it yet. It's free.

Careful what software you get, and make sure you get a cable that will work with it. Some of the software packages don't like USB type cables, they want a serial port connection... Should be less of an issue than it is... but, there ya go.

if you want to actually purchase software, look at some of the single-user licensed tuning software packages. There's a bunch of 'em out there....
 
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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 03:55 PM
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i use PCMscan and ELM327. PCMscan you can a free demo and ELM327 only costs $15 from amazon.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 04:20 PM
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Does PCM scan allow me to modify pcm settings?
 
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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 04:22 PM
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Originally Posted by 1999 ramDan
Does PCM scan allow me to modify pcm settings?
havent PCMscan much. ive only read and cleared codes. i havent tried to mess with the pcm with it.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2012 | 04:36 PM
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None of the free ones will. Gotta pay for a package for that. EFILive might be what you are looking for.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2012 | 06:43 AM
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I am curious about this as well. I would love to be able to buy a SCT tuner, but I don't have the cash currently.

I have read a lot on here about the benefits of turning off the torque management function of the PCM. Is there a less expensive way of doing that with a laptop and software myself?

Sorry about the thread jack, but it goes along with the OP somewhat.
 
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Old Jan 15, 2012 | 08:24 AM
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Originally Posted by Josh_Putman
I am curious about this as well. I would love to be able to buy a SCT tuner, but I don't have the cash currently.

I have read a lot on here about the benefits of turning off the torque management function of the PCM. Is there a less expensive way of doing that with a laptop and software myself?

Sorry about the thread jack, but it goes along with the OP somewhat.
You won't find any free software that can alter PCM programming. You can buy a package that will for a bit north of a hundred bucks though..... (single vehicle license)
 
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