can any one recommend a code scanner for a 89 full size bronco
and a 93 f150 ,
both trucks have a 5.0 , thanks

 

If you are looking for a cheap reader, any of the model specific readers will work. But you will need a code list that tells you the meaning of the code/s.

If you want a scanner for all models at a reasonable, I have and like the "Auto X-Ray" scanner and it works very well.

 

And that code reader works for all years and models?

 

Sun makes a good scanner for Ford MCU and EEC systems and has a Code booklet. This scanner will do both KOEO, and KOER tests and is around $35 dollars.

It will work for 1981 to 1995 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

1996 and newer takes OBDII code readers. They are around $100 for the cheap ones.

 

Where can I get one of those? I was recently in a sears and they did not have that one. They only had OBD II code readers.

 

I see them for sale all the time in Kragen Auto stores. They are a part of the CSK Auto Group.

I bought mine from a specialized tool store back in 1994 where they sell virtually any type of tool needed. They still have them at that store as well.

Check with other auto stores, I'm sure someone around you will have it.

 

I really like the Equus brand code reader. It has an LCD readout, so you don't have to count flashes and write them down. The codes are read into memory and can be recalled anytime later. It's really handy when you want to quickly read some codes in the blowing rain, then retreat inside to look up the meaning in the manuals in front of a cozy fire with a cup of hot chocolate.

Scott

 

I have 2 Equus scanners and they both work fine for me.

If you were in Canada, Princess Auto has one on sale at 75% off these days .

 

i prefer the free method. www.fordfuelinjection.com will show you how using a paperclip. why spend money

 

The paperclip method only works if you
have a check engine light, that flashes
when codes are read..

Most of the early EEC computers before 1987 do not have a check engine, or emission light that does this.

My 1981 has neither, Also that site does not show how to do a self test on a MCU (Microcomputer Control Unit) system, which some of the 300 I6s got before 1984. My 1981 is one of these MCU systems.


However, in conjunction with a analog
multimeter, you can count the pulses with
the needle.

 

this is correct. this is for EFI equipped systems. not carbed setups. efi was first available in 85 on the bronco and f150 running a 302. but a code reader the poster is speaking of will not work in your case either. look at the years of rigs he has, that is what i posted a response to.

i had no idea about the earlier systems though, thanks for the info.

 

No Problem. I noticed there are two people asking for information. And I always post answers and information for people that may read this 30 years from now, that may search for info.

The fledgeling MCU system came out on the California smog equipped 1978 Pintos. It didn't become a self testing diagnosing system until 1981, when they were first used on 300-I6 model trucks sold to California.

The MCU system uses the same type of code reader that the later EEC systems use. Both have the same identical large self test connector. The only difference is the EEC system has another small self test output connector, while the MCU does not have the second connector.

The MCU does not have a check engine or emission light. Most EEC systems do not have one either between 1984 and 1987 that is hooked to the EEC or that have one that can be used for reading self diagnostic tests. The emission light found on some of the circa 1984-1986 models has nothing to do with computer diagnosing, other than as a reminder to check the system manually with a tester every 60,000 miles or so.

Why I said the paperclip trick wont work on most of these trucks 1980-1986. It may trigger the self test, but there is no light anywhere that flashes to read the codes. Using a paperclip, in conjunction with a multimeter will work, cause you can count the pulses on the meter. I do not know the proceedure for hooking this up however.

The paperclip trick will work fine 1987 up if you have a check engine light.

Most Code Scanners like the Sun-Pro code scanner will do all Ford systems easily, between 1981 and 1995. Including MCU and EEC and even some Ford ABS computers. They have analog and digital versions depending on budget, and are really reliable. The one I bought in 1991 still works great.

Hope this helps. And sorry if there was any confusion.

 

There aren't any self tests for the Duraspark II, are there? I thought they were just "throw away and try another".