Code Scanner
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 256
Likes: 0
From: Central Iowa
Code Scanner
I got one at wal-mart for $25 and it works just fine and is easily explained. Plug it in, turn the key forward (don't start it) and record the codes by deciphering the blinks on the display (or your check engine light). I know how to use them but I know that the manual that came with mine is idiot proof. What year is your truck? I am not sure what year the OBD-II scanner came out but if you have that you are going to need to pay some cash to get your hands on one. There are many posts in this forum that will tell you how to run a diagnostic on your truck with just a paper clip. I think Steve83 can explain that. All for now.
KJ
KJ
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 201
Likes: 2
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,526
Likes: 0
From: Round Rock, TX
Code Scanner
Here's Steve83's guide:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...hreadid=112293
All '96s were OBDII. Before that, I believe that you're OK.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...hreadid=112293
All '96s were OBDII. Before that, I believe that you're OK.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 235
Likes: 0
From: Wellington, FL
Code Scanner
For the OBDII guys one of the best bets is the Palm Computer types...many have them and even if you don't for $25 bucks on an auction site you can get the one you need, I got my Palm IIIxe like new with box/manuals for $50 six months ago.
I went with http://www.ghg.net/dharrison/ and their full package...it read my Saturn, my Dad's Tundra, my mom's RAV4 and now my Dad's new Bronco.
It was about $120. Local shops wanted 1 hour to read my OBDII which is a rip off telling me they have to hook up all these cables....whatever.
I sort of hate PCM's in modern cars, but they also make fixing the problems easy.
I went with http://www.ghg.net/dharrison/ and their full package...it read my Saturn, my Dad's Tundra, my mom's RAV4 and now my Dad's new Bronco.
It was about $120. Local shops wanted 1 hour to read my OBDII which is a rip off telling me they have to hook up all these cables....whatever.
I sort of hate PCM's in modern cars, but they also make fixing the problems easy.
