check engine light came on the other day while idling at intersection. Took to Autozone. They couldn't diagnose, as it seems there is an OBD-1 and OBD-2 (on-board diagnostic) versions. Apparently 1995 and 1996 models are one or the other and Autozone only supports OBD-2.

Anyone know other parts stores that will do check pro bono?

Checked gas cap, vacuum lines, intake, etc. and all seems ok. May be FPR but haven't checked.

thanks,

okie

 

As far as I know all 1996's are ODB-II.

 

watched the autozone guy plug in the unit and nothing came onto the screen. He was emphatic it's ODB 1.

I'm not an expert but something seems fishy here.

 

I loked in my 1996 Ford manual and this is what they have to say, also they list the same scanner for your truck and the newer years.

1996 PCED OBDII-A SECTION 1A: Description and Operation

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EEC-V System

EEC-V System Overview
The Electronic Engine Control-V (EEC-V) system provides optimum control of the engine and transmission through the enhanced capability of the microprocessor. The EEC-V also has an on-board diagnostics monitoring system (On Board Diagnostics II) with features and functions to meet federal regulations on exhaust emissions.

The EEC-V system has two major divisions, hardware and software. The hardware includes the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Natural Gas (NG) Vehicle Module, Constant Control Relay Module (CCRM), Variable Load Control Module (VLCM), sensors, switches, actuators, solenoids, and interconnecting terminals. The software in the PCM provides the strategy control for outputs (engine and transmission hardware) based on the values of the inputs to the PCM. EEC-V hardware and software are discussed in this section.

The PCM receives information from a variety of sensor and switch inputs. Based on the strategy and calibration stored within the memory chip, the PCM generates the appropriate output. The system is designed to minimize emissions, and optimize fuel economy and driveability. The software strategy controls the basic operation of the engine and transmission, provides the OBD II strategy, controls the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), communicates to the scan tool [New Generation Star (NGS), etc.] via the Standard Corporate Protocol (SCP), allows for Flash Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read-Only-Memory (EPROM), provides adaptive idle air and fuel control, and controls Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM).

Modifications to OBD II Vehicles
Modifications or additions to the vehicle may cause incorrect operation of the OBD II system. Burglar alarms, cellular telephones and CB radios must be carefully installed. Do not install these devices by tapping into or running wires close to powertrain control system wires or components.

 

That is interesting that you said that about alarm systems possibly interfering with OBD II.

I purchased a 1995 Ranger with an alarm system and I can not get an OBD II reading.

Do you think that it could be the alarm system causing these problems?

 

What about a 99 ford ranger? what gadget supposed to scan my truck? I went to auto-zone too.

 

I think that you would need to use and OBD II scanner.

Most garages and some auto parts dealers would have them.

 

Schucks, or any of their family of stores (Kragen, or checker) usually has code readers

 

My 95 is fully OBDII,there should be a sticker under the hood right beside the hood latch that tell all . Advance Auto will read codes for you.

 

the gov't passed a law that requies all cars from 95 on to have an OBD-II diagnostic port. All rangers 95 and up use OBD-II, the rest use OBD-I. that is the main reason the interior changed from 94 to 95. Just buy a cheapo OBD-1 scanner. Ive seen them In wal-mart, and auto parts stores.