What is the best or most capable code scanner for 7.3L PSD equipped trucks. Since I own a PSD I am sure a code scanner will come in handy eventually.

 

You're going to get a variety of different opinions on this one, and I think the majority of folks around here recommend the AutoEnginuity scan tool. It's a computer program and hardware package that turns a laptop computer into a fully featured scan tool. When purchased with the enhanced Ford package it can read most anything that the PCM is capable of providing.

Riffraff Diesel: AutoEnginuity Total Ford Enhanced Bundle

I'm going to send this one down to the 7.3L forum, they can give you some more specific information as to what works well with your particular engine.

 

I agree. AE(Auto Enginuity) from RiffRaff.

 

Hi guys I'm new to this forum and am just trying to find out how to ask questions so forgive me if I'm in the wrong spot! I was wondering if the auto enginuity scan tool with the ford bundle is easy enough for a non computer guy to use? I have 5 Psd so I would like to get one. Thanks for any advice.

 

I purchased an old laptop computer off of a guy on craigslist that sells used computers. The laptop I purchased was was a dell inspiron made in 2007 and had a new battery. I only have one USB port that works and I purchased a 4 way USB hub to plug into that USB. You will need two USB ports minimum. One to plug the scanner into and one for a security dongle(small device that looks like a jump drive storage device)
This computer cost me 50$ because it was old and did not have wireless. It also had chips out of three of the corners but runs just fine.
You will need a PC based laptop. You will have to call Auto Enginuity to see if they are compatible with Windows8 if you are going to purchase a new laptop. You only really need a very basic laptop. Very easy to use after you get it set up.

 

Thanks 1fixitmam I appreciate the input and your time. I'd just hate to buy it and not be able to work it. I've been told that the scanner will not tell you a problem directly rather it will give you the stats and then I'd have to get on the forum to find normal stats and diagnose from there is that true?

 

The scanner will give you the codes. Report the codes here and we help you troubleshoot further. AE can also help you find out if you have a bad sensor by monitoring that sensor individually while running or while cranking. It is an awesome program and worth it's weight in gold. It will save you many many hours and dollars if you have an issue on your PSD.

 

Thank you I believe you've answered all my questions on AE. My issue is on my 99 7.3 with 250000 miles. The other day I noticed she was intermittently idling rough and no dtc's have been thrown so I was going to purchase the AE scanner to tell me what's going on. Like you I'm sure I won't let anyone but me touch my trucks. Thanks again!

 

If you just want an affordable code reader, look for a SupChips 1705. VIN locked ones can be had on flea bay for ~$30 and are the perfect code reader for the 7.3

 

AE is king, but codes may also be read by used Superchips and Diablo tuners and the like, found on craigslist for $150 or so. Cheapest (and my recommendation) is Torque app for android phones plus a cheapo ebay bluetooth elm adapter. It does not have all the functionality of AE but sometimes all ya need is the code and a way to clear it.

 

Thanks for your reply guys however I believe I need a more in depth scanner. I have a regular dtc scanner but will only tell you what's wrong when a code is detected. I think the AE can scan all of your functions and sensors I'm just concerned I won't know how to use it.

 

That does not like older 7.3 trucks. Works great on most gassers and later model 7.3 trucks though.

 

ScanguageII will read codes and provide a lot of useful live data.