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Scan tools???

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Old Aug 1, 2003 | 07:14 PM
  #1  
gstrickl's Avatar
gstrickl
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Scan tools???

I am new to all this computer stuff...

My check engine light is on so I had an auto parts store read my computer to get the DTCs (1401 and 1132). I bought a service manual to start troubleshooting and it says to start troubleshooting procedure HE10, which says to "Access the DPFEGR PID with a scan tool".

Is this the same scan tool as the auto part store had or are they talking about a different one?

Thanks.
 
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Old Aug 1, 2003 | 08:54 PM
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Scan tools???

The DPFE senser is a very commonm problem, try doing a search and also see the link in the tech info post at the top of the page.
 
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Old Aug 1, 2003 | 09:25 PM
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Scan tools???

Yep, seen that 1401 code many times and 99% its the DPFE sensor. That's where I would start.

If/when you replace the DPFE, make sure you take cable off the negative battery terminal for 20 minutes or so to reset the computer.

This link as a whole bunch of information on the DPFE, including pictures: DPFE Thread
 
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Old Aug 2, 2003 | 12:16 PM
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Talking Scan tools???

Thanks for the help but unfortunately I just replaced the DPFEGR sensor and the problem remains. I disconnected the battery cable to reset the computer. The check engine light went out but it still stalls and has a serious loss of power at lower speeds. Eventually it “kicks in” and I get power back but when I slow down again the symptoms come back.

Should I bite the bullet and buy a scan tool?

I have found several online but these are more in my price range:
http://www.obd-2.com/#home for $122.
Equus for $129 at http://www.midwayautosupply.com/ .

I have read some threads about some others:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...ic/132359.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...opic/4559.html

I have been doing some research but it is really confusing because I have no idea what I’m looking for. I guess I need one that can access certain PIDs and returns voltages. (I have a laptop but no PDA)

Any recommendations?

Thanks again.
 
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Old Aug 7, 2003 | 12:12 AM
  #5  
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StevenRanger
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Scan tools???

I have the same questions about the scan tools. Which one is the best to use?
I have a 89' 2.3L FI 2wd Ranger, and my "Check Engine" light just started to Flash on every once in a while. I have a Code Reader that I bought at AutoZone but it's a cheap one. You have to count the beaps to get the codes.(and that really sucks).

I have a laptop and a Palm m130.
so I'm willing to try different options to keep my baby running.
So what should I buy? I can spend up to $250.00 for now.

Stephen
 
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Old Aug 7, 2003 | 10:36 AM
  #6  
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Ken00
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Scan tools???

With those problems I would bet the valve is stuck. Can't comment on the scan tool except they won't do much for a 1989.
 
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Old Aug 7, 2003 | 11:01 AM
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Rockledge
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Scan tools???

Originally posted by gstrickl

....Should I bite the bullet and buy a scan tool?

I have found several online but these are more in my price range:
http://www.obd-2.com/#home for $122.
Equus for $129 at http://www.midwayautosupply.com/ .

I have read some threads about some others:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...ic/132359.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/a...opic/4559.html

I have been doing some research but it is really confusing because I have no idea what I’m looking for. I guess I need one that can access certain PIDs and returns voltages. (I have a laptop but no PDA)

Any recommendations?
I don't know that much about code scanners either, but most hand held scaners that cost one or two hundred bucks can read codes and reset the computer, and that's about it. Some of the other ones (like the one you mentioned) work off of your PC and they usually are more comprehensive, allowing access to PIDs and showing sensor readings, etc. I would be interested to hear how well they actually perform and how easy they are to use out in the field.
 
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Old Aug 7, 2003 | 07:44 PM
  #8  
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wptski
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Scan tools???

Originally posted by Rockledge
I don't know that much about code scanners either, but most hand held scaners that cost one or two hundred bucks can read codes and reset the computer, and that's about it. Some of the other ones (like the one you mentioned) work off of your PC and they usually are more comprehensive, allowing access to PIDs and showing sensor readings, etc. I would be interested to hear how well they actually perform and how easy they are to use out in the field.
It's a matter of choice! Do you want drag a laptop/notebook PC out to your truck or grab a handheld unit? They do have handheld units that will access PIDs in real time and do a capture with a trigger point which could be a stumble, stall, etc. You can then look at PIDs before/after the problem happens. Look at this one: http://www.autoxray.com/default.htm.
 
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Old Aug 7, 2003 | 08:56 PM
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Scan tools???

I agree it's a matter of personal preference (and how much $$ you are willing to pay )

This is the scanner I have: Actron Global OBD II AutoScanner - CP9135. Cost me $140 bucks at Advance Auto about a year ago (probably cheaper now). It works great for me, but it does have limitations, so it might not work as well for someone else.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2003 | 02:47 AM
  #10  
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StevenRanger
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Scan tools???

I would just like to get the a better idea of my choices of scan tools.
I understand now that my 89' ranger being OBD-I that you don't get as much information from this type as you do the OBD-II.

I almost purchased the Actron that you have, but then realized that I may be wasting my money. Glad I found this forum before I made a mistake like that again. I then bought the Equus 3134
code reader a couple of months ago. But you have to count the beaps to get the codes. I didn't think that would be to hard to do. And it isn't.
But then later I found the Equus 3145 that has a digital screen. For only $14.00 more. (paid $34.00 for 1st one). They were a little low on stock at AutoZone. Didn't have time to search to many other places.

After a using the 1st one for while, those beaps do tend to get a little annoying.

So should I buy the Digital Equus or is there one that is a little better. I just wanna know what everyone else is using for OBD-I.

And, Nice Truck Rockledge..and thats a lot of Snow!!
 
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Old Aug 8, 2003 | 05:48 AM
  #11  
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wptski
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From: Warren, MI
Scan tools???

I got a Actron at first for a problem I had on my 97 Ranger 4.0L but after looking into the DTC I was getting, I need to know what the fuel trims were. I took it back and ordered a AutoXray EZ-Link Pro which I just traded in on their new EZ-Scan 6000.

The actual problem was fixed for $12.00 worth of parts but I got interested in the trouble shooting end. I've since purchased a OTC DAT, OTC 104-pin breakout box, Fluke 189 and a OTC Perception labscope.

I wouldn't say that you wouldn't get much info from a 89 vehicle. In fact, I worked on my 90 Buick with a no start/stall problem and the scanner which has a 20 PID limit for ODBII in capture mode didn't have that limit for OBDI.
 
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Old Aug 8, 2003 | 06:20 PM
  #12  
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StevenRanger
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Scan tools???

I was looking at the AutoXray OBD-I EZ Link Ford 83 - 95. Saw one on Ebay for $169.00.

This looks a better choice. If I understand correctly, it sounds like I can drive aound with this hooked up to my truck. Can you really do this?
I think this is the one I'l buy ,unless some one else has had a bad experiance with this product.

One other thing. Maybe the moderators of this forum could set up a poll so everone can vote for there best tools. See how many people use what types of tools.

Thxs
 
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Old Aug 9, 2003 | 09:02 AM
  #13  
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wptski
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Scan tools???

Yes, you can drive around with it connected, I did this with my truck. The only limiting factor is cord lenght. On OBDII the DCL connector is inside the truck below the steering column but otherwise it's inside the engine compartment near the firewall. I think that the cords are 6' long. That should be enough to get you inside but I'm not sure how much lenght you'll have to play with then!

I've ran scope leads into a vehicle but luckily had an extension lead which got to the passenger seat easily.
 
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