Trouble Codes

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Jan 20, 2006 | 09:12 PM

quisp-n-quake

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Trouble Codes

Is there a hand held diagnostic code finder for an '88 f150?
if so what am I looking for? how much?

Jan 21, 2006 | 12:06 AM

EPNCSU2006

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From: Concord, NC

There are, but you don't need one. All you need is a paperclip and a working check engine light. See http://fordfuelinjection.com for how-to instructions.

Jan 21, 2006 | 05:59 PM

torquemeister

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From: austin

There are code readers available for about $25 at Walmart or Autozone that are extremely easy to use and hard to mess up. Or you can buy a $.02 paperclip and watch the CEL flash! Either way will yield the exact same codes, that you can then look up on this site or in your code reader book.

-Chris

Jan 21, 2006 | 08:08 PM

924x2150

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From: Langhorne, PA

Your codes probably won't appear on the dash CEL. I don't think an 88 had that feature. You may use an analog voltmeter ( a meter that has a needle-type movement) in series with the STI and STO connectors. The Haynes manual and Fordfuelinjection.com have the set-up diagram. The paper clip will still be needed, and an acceptable meter costs about 10 to 12 dollars.

Jan 22, 2006 | 12:30 AM

eco

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From: The dark carnival

924x2150,

So the 1988 will not reveal it's codes via the CEL on the dash.....that might be why I am having a hard time pulling the codes on my 1988. Is this the only year that wont display its codes on the cel? Hmmm, I will have to try the volt meter method. In your post you say to run the volt meter in series with sti and sto, that the paper clip will be needed and that fordfuelinjection.com explains this. I looked at ffi.com and it said to ground sti and to put the meter in series with sto and battery positive. I am confused.

Jan 22, 2006 | 07:27 AM

subford

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From: Easton,Ks

Quote:

Originally Posted by eco

It was engine dependent in 1988, the 5.0 did not have the light but the 5.8 and the 4.9 did in the E-Series. I am not 100% sure about the F-Series but I think they were like the E-Series.

Jan 22, 2006 | 01:11 PM

quisp-n-quake

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Nope, I got the flash on the dash,-"check engine" it flashes , but only when i'm driving at a certain speed over 35mph or so, -so i cant really keep my eye on how many times it flashes while im driving, and watch the dash at the same time.. Ive got the lariat tow package in this truck, mabey thats the reason I have the codes in the dash, as apposed to other 88f150's? i dont know. but I thank you for the input on this regardless, I must have gotten about 18 replies to this, and 90% onto how to use the paperclip in revealing the codes. thanx!!