Hello I am new to the site but have been lurking for awhile, picking up lots of good info.My Question is for the money what code reader is best? My 03 6.0 cali emission truck almost always sets the cel when I tow heavy loads 5k and up.I have 4" exhaust as the only engine mod ,the truck has 99k on it and Ive owned since new.The truck has had a ton of warranty work done on it ending with a short block at 63k.Dealer claims the 4" exhaust sets egr code and cel on the truck?Otherwise runs great and I do clean the egr periodically,.any ideas ? thanks

 

AutoEnginuity is by far the best bang for your buck. You'll need to get the Ford Enhancement License as well as the generic coverage without that license is pathetic for our vehicles. The generic coverage is 1 module with about 9 sensors on it. The coverage with the license is 9 modules with a crap load of sensors, the enhance powertrain module has 464(I think, it's 460 something I'm pretty sure) sensors on it alone. The other 8 modules aren't as extensive, but the coverage is really good.

That's what I would suggest anyway.

 

X2 on that Tex.For the money nothing else I know of is even is close.

 

4" exhaust should not be setting an egr code. what code are you getting there a bunch of egr related codes.
all of that said cali emmision trucks from what I gather have some issues with setting egr codes. were the 50 state and fed emmison programs dont.

 

If you're getting a P0401(insufficient EGR flow), don't worry about it.. Get a ScanGuageII and when the CEL gets lit you can check the code while you're driving.. Then you can clear it at your next stop..

The digital readout is easy on the eyes and it can display some useful realtime info..

 

Thanks for the replies I am doing some research now to make my choice the autoengiuity is sure a top quality unit with capabilities galore somewhat expensive,the scanguage2 might have potential also for less than half the cost.

 

With half the capabilities though. You have to remember AutoEnginuity gives you close to dealership abilities. You can get it alittle cheaper going to places like ITP or vendors like that(I don't know if you were just looking at AutoEnginuity's main site or not).

ScanGauge won't be able to pull all the codes, nor will it let you do tests like Injector Buzz Test or change the speedo for up to 40" tires(dealers can only go up to 37").

 

AE is a much more powerful diagnostic tool for sure.. For a recurring CEL due to EGR codes, I think a SG is a more convenient option.. My X has an 03 CA motor in it and I go through periods where it'll throw codes when I tow.. With a SG I can pull the code as soon as it pops up and see if it's a nuisance code or not... It's an easy way to get some peace of mind without having to pull over and break out the laptop.. The code can't be cleared until I shut off the engine, but at least I know what it is without having to stop..

As to the cause of the CEL, i've been told the CA calibrations(especially the older 06E17 flashes) are much more sensitive to induction and exhaust flow.. The comparative tables that are used are stricter than the 49 state trucks..Very, very tiny leaks can trigger the CEL.. These are difficult to find as they are so small..

 

I see what you are saying now. Your right about the scangauge, that is an easy and quick way to get rid of those frivolous codes.

 

Scangauge is usefull for more than just diagnostic. I have the older version and still love it.