Code Scanners Anyone?

[IgotTwo]

I happened to notice that the crew over in the Ford Taurus BB are cutting deals for PC based OBD2 code readers.
You can check it out at:

http://www.tauruscarclub.com/UBB/Forum6/HTML/000054.html

I think this one with run on a "low to no" Mhz laptop..or a desktop with a very long cable, if you are into punishment.
note: Those of us who go to PC shows know you can pick up an old laptop for next to nothing.

Anyone have have thoughts, comments or interest?

I know if I only use it once, it will probably pay for itself. I have another ODB2 vehicle, so the chances are that "it will" is a better bet that "probably."

Besides, XMAS lists are coming up... perhaps someone is in need of "a socking stuffer?" HAHA!
Given the interest, maybe we can pull off a good discount.

God Bless America

 

[RTStork]

Thanks for the link! I'm in the market for a OBD-II code reader.

 

[IgotTwo]

Well, it doesn't seem like there are too many takers.

(puzzzled)
Although I am not into "mods," I do get a big kick and enjoy seeing how so many "guessy up" their cruisers with neat stuff. Expensive stuff too!!!

Unless I'm the only one in American without an ODBII scanner, I'm surprised there was not more interest in a "fix em up" thing like code scanners. I'm not sure if it has something to do with the time and effort to go up the learning curve or meeting the check engine crisis when it comes.

Maybe everyone is holding off till the 42volt system come before they fork out for more tools.
HAHA (just kidding)

 

[gerry]

Notice that this thread was back in June/July. I got in on the deal back then and have no regrets.

 

[IgotTwo]

Gerry, (and others of course)
Thanks for the feedback.
Yeah, I did notice that and wish I knew about it.
I've been contemplating buying one for over a year but Ford has been fixing by 97 SOHC free with all the recalls haha and my daughter's Malibu was under warranty. I think both are over with.

Last year I did get the Explorer Helm manuals which are great. But before I got a ODBII scanner, I thought I'd ask the troops if any anyone wanted to go along.

I'm glad to hear you like it and thanks again for the your feedback. I'm sure I'll have a learning curve.

I have a couple "old" laptops laying around from 386 to 586. I was going to deicate one. I was planning to put it on a low end "586" under Win95 (make it easier on a smaller HD). I don't even what to think of any 100' serial cable to my desktop!! haha But as **** rententive as I am, there will a LAN drop in my garage.

Couple of quick questions if I can?
-What "puter" and platform did you set yours up on?
-Did you find you needed any "helpful extras?" There is a PC show coming up soon in my area, I can pick up anything you think is worth while.

Think Santa will have to check with one of his elfs in his motor pool when he sees my xmas list?

 

[Jason_25]

Do they make the computer based scanners for OBD-I equipped vehicles?

 

[RTStork]

They sure do. They are cheaper too.

 

[Jason_25]

Originally posted by RTStork
They sure do. They are cheaper too.

Sweet. Do you know where I can find one to buy??

 

[gerry]

TWO:

Couple of quick questions if I can?
-What "puter" and platform did you set yours up on?
I have it running on an old Pent.I laptop under Win 98


-Did you find you needed any "helpful extras?" There is a PC show coming up soon in my area, I can pick up anything you think is worth while.

Nope. Everything is included. For the few extra $, I recommend getting the Tri model that can run on most car makes.

 

[IgotTwo]

thanks again,
Good suggestion. I did planned to get the tri model.

I dug up a docking station for one of my old laptops... should make for a good set up in the garage.
(hey, its always good to TRY to start out organized)
I'm ready to rock.

 

[RTStork]

Originally posted by Jason_25


Sweet. Do you know where I can find one to buy??

I believe Auto Zone had one for $39 or $49. JCWhitney and Pep Boys should carry them as well.