When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I have a 1990 F-150 with the 4.9 and recently got a rough idle and a check engine light. I tried to use the self test connector with a paper clip, but no matter what I try it doesn't seem to work. I'm debating buying a code reader. Any suggestions?
Try grounding the grey connector (STI) directly to the battery negative. Seen a few instances where Signal Return (Pin 2) on the self test connector is open.
If you cannot get the computer to go into display mode with a jumper lead, a code reader is not going to work either. Start with using a known good ground (battery negative is the best choice) then jumper the gray/grey STI connector to it.