If you intend to run software on a laptop for OBDII
What is the best deal / price performance wise, for laptop computer software and cable for OBDII to monitor a PSD 6.0 (2005) Diesel?
I would prefer a cable that is straight into USB without an adapter for Serial to USB.
What is the best deal for an inexpensive (not professional grade) code reader?
Thanks!
Unfortunately, you really can't have your cake and eat it to when it comes to having a code reader for a diesel. Most of your inexpensive code readers don't cover diesel period or they are very limited in what they cover, because diesel's aren't A. OBD-II compliant(especially for a 6.0) and B. use CAN.
You really shouldn't cheap out on this as getting a good one can pay for itself in code reading alone in just 3 or 4 scans based on the 100 a pop hookup fee for code reading at most Ford dealerships(some are more, if yours is more then that's less time needed to pay for itself).
I would suggest AutoEnginuity with the Ford Enhancement bundle(you will have to get this bundle due to the fact that our engines are not OBD-II compliant). That would definitely be the most bang for your buck and it will pay for itself relatively quickly. This software offers alot more then just code reading, probably more then most of use hobby gearheads would use it for, but for the price, it is worth it. I have expansions for Toyota, Nissian, and Honda along with Ford in order to cover all the vehicles that I deal with on a regular basis and I've used it for everything from code readings to programming the locks not to unlock when you shut off the engine. Now what you can program or not program depends on the vehicle specifically, but you can do a crap load with this software. It's very much dealer-like in it's capabilities, in some cases even better. If you were to get bigger tires for the 6.0, you can program the speedo up 40" tires, the dealership can only do 37 at this time.
I think Riffraff might be the place to be able to cut a deal. AE is pretty well price fixed by the company that makes it, so you'll have to see who is willing to cut you a discount on shipping or if they offer their own discount on the software.
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