1996 Ford Ranger check engine light
#1
11-17-2004, 10:29 AM
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1996 Ford Ranger check engine light
Hi,
I know this question has probably been asked before, but i cant seem to find anything on it. I'm new to Ford Trucks - my 1996 Ranger (2.3L) has a check engine light on it. I've been told that i have an ODB-II computer system on it and i need a code reader to fetch the codes. Most of my GM cars that i've worked on just required shorting two pins on the connector and you could get the codes by the check engine light flashing. Can my truck be done the same way, or do i have to go buy one of those odb-ii readers? If so, where can i get one cheap?
Bob
I know this question has probably been asked before, but i cant seem to find anything on it. I'm new to Ford Trucks - my 1996 Ranger (2.3L) has a check engine light on it. I've been told that i have an ODB-II computer system on it and i need a code reader to fetch the codes. Most of my GM cars that i've worked on just required shorting two pins on the connector and you could get the codes by the check engine light flashing. Can my truck be done the same way, or do i have to go buy one of those odb-ii readers? If so, where can i get one cheap?
Bob
#2
11-17-2004, 10:41 AM
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MX Rose:
Welcome to FTE. I know exactly what you are talking about. The pre-OBD II systems would allow one to ground a prescribed wire which would cause the CEL to flash. Both Ford (EEC IV) and GM would do this. Starting with the 1996 and some 1995 models the industry switched to a standardized coding system OBD II.
There are two ways to go: 1. As you indicated, where can I get a code reader cheap? My suggestion to you is e-bay. There is a unit called a CREADER that sells routinely for less than $50. and will do just that, digitally present the code(s). From there one must start testing circuits/sensors/relays to locate the exact malfunction. The code reader will do just that - point you to the circuit. 2. Give some careful thought and consideration to investment into a scanner. This item will go much further than the code reader in that it will a.) present the error code(s) and b.) will allow the user to scan the circuit components and present real-time data. As you can see, this will speed up the process of elimination.
Personally, I purchased a scanner that will read OBD I and OBD II with the cabling to fit pre 1996 Ford and GM as my Ranger is a 1993 and my son has a 93 Saturn. Our other rides are OBD II. Again I personally purchased an Actron CP9145. PawPaw who is also a regular to these forums also has one.
Hopefully this information is useful to you and provides enough information for you to draw a conclusion on how to proceed.
Russ
Welcome to FTE. I know exactly what you are talking about. The pre-OBD II systems would allow one to ground a prescribed wire which would cause the CEL to flash. Both Ford (EEC IV) and GM would do this. Starting with the 1996 and some 1995 models the industry switched to a standardized coding system OBD II.
There are two ways to go: 1. As you indicated, where can I get a code reader cheap? My suggestion to you is e-bay. There is a unit called a CREADER that sells routinely for less than $50. and will do just that, digitally present the code(s). From there one must start testing circuits/sensors/relays to locate the exact malfunction. The code reader will do just that - point you to the circuit. 2. Give some careful thought and consideration to investment into a scanner. This item will go much further than the code reader in that it will a.) present the error code(s) and b.) will allow the user to scan the circuit components and present real-time data. As you can see, this will speed up the process of elimination.
Personally, I purchased a scanner that will read OBD I and OBD II with the cabling to fit pre 1996 Ford and GM as my Ranger is a 1993 and my son has a 93 Saturn. Our other rides are OBD II. Again I personally purchased an Actron CP9145. PawPaw who is also a regular to these forums also has one.
Hopefully this information is useful to you and provides enough information for you to draw a conclusion on how to proceed.
Russ
#3
11-17-2004, 10:59 AM
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Excellent advice from Ranger...I found a code reader from Checker on sale for $99. It's been useful, but I kind of wish I'd bought a scanner for reasons Ranger listed. I guess the choice between code reader and scanner depends on your needs, abilities, and most importantly, your pocketbook!
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