Homemade code reader/test light?
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Collegeville, PA
Homemade code reader/test light?
Hi,
Does anyone have a link to a homemade test light? Yes I am a complete cheapskate! I don't own an analog meter or I'd probably stick with that.
TIA,
Dan
Does anyone have a link to a homemade test light? Yes I am a complete cheapskate! I don't own an analog meter or I'd probably stick with that.
TIA,
Dan
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,949
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From: Virginia
Homemade code reader/test light?
I assume you know about how to read the codes with a analog voltmeter since you already mentioned it.
Really, a decent analog meter would be a good investment. If falls short as far as testing components and some of the circuitry on a computerized vehicle, but you can't beat it for testing lighting circuits and other regular circuits in an auto. If you get one with the higher voltage ratings, you can use it in your house too, for stuff like water heater element checking, and double checking circuits to see if they are safe, such as installing a ceiling fan or something.
Really, a decent analog meter would be a good investment. If falls short as far as testing components and some of the circuitry on a computerized vehicle, but you can't beat it for testing lighting circuits and other regular circuits in an auto. If you get one with the higher voltage ratings, you can use it in your house too, for stuff like water heater element checking, and double checking circuits to see if they are safe, such as installing a ceiling fan or something.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
Likes: 7
From: Memphis, TN
Homemade code reader/test light?
You don't need anything to read codes on '87-95, and maybe a 12V test light on older EFIs. The engine light on the dash will flash the codes out - all you have to have is a jumper wire (paperclip) and the code list.
http://www.broncodata.com/tech/codes.htm
http://www.broncodata.com/tech/codes.htm
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 67
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From: Collegeville, PA
Homemade code reader/test light?
I'm sorry I do own a DMM, but they can't compare to an analog's sweeping hand, which is better for this process of counting pulses. I guess I should buy the light, but I'm fond of making test jigs and the like. I just thought someone had a schematic for a test light. Thanks for the info all the same. My truck is an '86, but I'll look for the engine light and see if it does anything while I'm at it.
Dan
Dan
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 67
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From: Collegeville, PA
Homemade code reader/test light?
Thanks Steve.
I just got a 12 volt light. Also picked up the Hayes for the Bronco, F series etc. I dare say it's more thorough than the Chilton with respect to electrical info.
Thanks again,
Dan
PS, any insight on what a good culprit for NO advanced timing may be? I'm gonna swap the whole distributor, TFI combo for a known good. Also have a spare computer. Thank You.
I just got a 12 volt light. Also picked up the Hayes for the Bronco, F series etc. I dare say it's more thorough than the Chilton with respect to electrical info.
Thanks again,
Dan
PS, any insight on what a good culprit for NO advanced timing may be? I'm gonna swap the whole distributor, TFI combo for a known good. Also have a spare computer. Thank You.
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Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 56,949
Likes: 2,718
From: Virginia
Homemade code reader/test light?
Follow the distributor wires back in the harness. There is a spout connector that may be unplugged. You have to unplug this to set the timing, but maybe somebody unplugged it by accident. This would give you no advance.
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