ok, I decided I better get forescan and put it on my spare laptop more as a preventative step as I may be getting a new job that will require me to relocate a good distance to Texas, what I need help with is finding the correct OBD to USB adapter people are using that will actually work, does any one have a link to one that is good, don't mind paying for a good one either


thanks guys for the help!

 

This is what I use.



Also, because I use a netbook that did not have bluetooth on it, I solved that problem with this.



Project done!

 

This one works for me with my 7.3L and Forscan on my ipad:
And it's $18, not $79.

 

Thanks guys, now to order one

 

What about the USB to obd units, I have a portable computer that I will be leaving in the truck (perminant mount) for use as a diagnostic tool

 

My tablet is permanently in the truck, and I never remove the OBDII adapter. I need the thing to not drain my battery, so OBDLink MX or LX gets it done.

 

Need some guidance from you seasoned diagnostic experts. I'm a newly hatched newbie when it comes to OBD readers & software required etc. Based on what I've read and what many of you recommended, I just purchased the 426101 OBDLink MX Bluetooth ScanTool for my '01 diesel. I will be pairing it with my Samsung Galaxy Note 3 smartphone.

As you know, the MX Scan Tool comes with the free, downloadable scantool app. It looks like many of you use the Torque Lite or Torque Pro app to connect their MX reader with their device (i.e. my Note 3).

QUESTION: Do I need to install both the scantool app AND the Torque Lite/Pro app(s) or can I install just the Torque Lite/Pro app on my phone? Also, is Forscan just a duplication of the aforementioned apps or does it do something different? ... and do I really need it too?

I don't want to download a bunch of apps that do the same thing and potentially can trip each other (and me) up. I also want to take things a step at a time so I can really learn and understand what I am doing. Like Rich espouses, first get your truck working the way it should, then you can start modifying/fortifying stuff. BTW - my goasl is similar to Sous' ... rock solid reliability and optimized stock performance. Not gonna be a power monger.

This kind of electrickity techy stuff doesn't come naturally to me ... but I'm learnable . Thanks in advance.

 

Torque Pro is all you need for monitoring your engine performance on a regular basis. There is a lot of support for TP... including new PIDs learned/created on a regular basis, a library of custom skins, regular updates, and the ability to customize the appearance if you are creative.

Saying all that, when it comes time to troubleshoot - FORScan wins. It's a butt-ugly interface and much of the display is way too small to utilize while driving - but it performs the test functions available in your vehicle and it's easier to use than some of the other full-feature apps (like Car Gauge Pro).

 

Thank for your post Rich. So if I understand correctly, Torque Pro is for on-going monitoring and replaces the need to download the MX's "free" scantool application. FORScan is the app to use for troubleshooting problems. Soooo, I will start with Torque Pro ... and when/if needed, add FORScan to the mix. I know this sounds a little funny but I'm getting stoked about the learning ahead. I guess that's my OCD embracing my curious mind ... lol.

 

I use OBDLink SX USB with forscan. I prefer usb hardwired connection. Got mine on ebay but I am sure Amazon has them.

 

The software that comes with OBDII adapters is widely reputed to be junk and/or malware. It's also superfluous. Dispose of that little disc and never look back.

 

The software that comes with the OBDLink hardware is completely legit, made in USA, and a good product. I just "like" Torque Pro better.

 

Thanks for the word Rich! Makes sense that the better product would have better software.