Best Code Scanner
Super Moderator
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 25,479
Likes: 738
From: Isanti, MN
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.
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.
New User
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Auto enginuity
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.
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.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 915
Likes: 3
From: Palatka, FL
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.
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.
New User
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
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?
Laughing Gas
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 915
Likes: 3
From: Palatka, FL
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.
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New User
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
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!
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It's a Van Gogh
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 7,795
Likes: 1,326
From: Elk Grove, CA
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.
New User
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
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.
Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,249
Likes: 42
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.
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stangman516
1999 - 2003 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
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Nov 12, 2008 08:11 AM