OBD Code Reader recommendation

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Jan 5, 2011 | 11:57 PM

wpnaes

Thread Starter

FTE Chapter Leader

Joined: Nov 2010

Posts: 30,595

Likes: 1,236

From: N. IL

OBD Code Reader recommendation

I hear lots of users talking about codes. What do you recommend to use as a code reader, then how does one find the decoder ring? Do I have obd1 or 2 in my 2000 V10?

Searching past posts, I found these:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8.../dp/B000KGCUMA
Actron Autoscanner
U581 CAN OBDII/EOBDII Memo Scanner(live data).
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...373%26sr%3D1-1
Autoengenuity
Actron OBD11 autoscanner
Snap-On 2500
Creader OBDII code reader
Autoxray 5000

I'm getting lost in options. thanks.

Jan 6, 2011 | 12:10 AM

jh818

Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2009

Posts: 2,885

Likes: 26

From: Chino, California

You have OBD2.

I have the Actron handheld that gives only the code. I also have a Scangauge2 that could give more detailed info.

Jan 6, 2011 | 02:14 AM

Stewart_H

Super Moderator

Joined: May 2004

Posts: 29,380

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From: Central Coast of CA

Riffraff Diesel: AutoEnginuity Total Ford Enhanced Bundle

My choice of scan tool.

Stewart

Jan 6, 2011 | 06:22 AM

tdappleman

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Sep 2002

Posts: 1,388

Likes: 2

From: Greensboro, NC

Stewart - it shows bi-directional capability in the list of specs. Can it open the ABS valves for bleeding? I've been looking at the Snap On Modis tool for my shop but just can't get my head wrapped around the 4000 + quarterly updates....

Jan 6, 2011 | 09:57 AM

howler4x4

More Turbo

Joined: Jan 2009

Posts: 530

Likes: 2

From: LI, NY

Depending on how deep you want to go...

If you want a 'lite' code reader at reasonable cost get the Scan Gauge II.
Con: Won't read tranny codes, maybe more. Not bi-directional, won't open ABS valves.
Pro: Digital tranny temp gauge on the dash, about $160

Jan 6, 2011 | 11:30 AM

wallz

Cargo Master

Joined: Jan 2008

Posts: 2,566

Likes: 18

From: The Great White North!

I also have the AE software scanner. And yes it has all the abs functions. Deals with pats programming, O2 sensors, and can record while taking test spins. Basically covers all sensors available to be read, and breaks them up into 4-5 sections.

Jan 10, 2011 | 10:06 AM

desertt5

Senior User

Joined: Jun 2009

Posts: 390

Likes: 0

From: ABQ

AE is my recommendation also. Used to read transmission line pressures a while back to troubleshoot a trans problem. It does more than I know how to use still.

A definate must for those with a diesel, but will read codes plus tons more for your V10, as already stated.

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Jan 11, 2011 | 05:16 PM

radmacks

Senior User

Joined: Dec 2010

Posts: 306

Likes: 2

From: Canada

Just my two cents, purchased a $20.00 including shipping bluetooth one from fleabay. Works with my windows mobile 6.5 phone, my android phone and my win 7 laptop. I have a pile of software and can test / check just about everything I could think off from any of three devices.

Now if I can just get my hands on some ecc reflash software