Recommended scan tool

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Oct 15, 2009 | 03:21 PM

80skeys

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Joined: Oct 2009

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From: Grand Junction, CO

Recommended scan tool

Can someone recommend a scan tool for my '88 F150 302. I'm a do-it-yourself mechanic and would like to be able to retrieve scan codes and test procedures.

Thanks.

80skeys

Oct 15, 2009 | 03:25 PM

wolfsmurf

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actron makes decent ones relatively cheap and found at most parts stores.

Oct 15, 2009 | 04:39 PM

quicklook2

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Joined: May 2004

Posts: 11,289

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From: Lakewood, Ohio

innova 3145 is my choice.

avail on ebay, do a search.

it is electronic and is way better then any i saw in parts stores.

Oct 15, 2009 | 05:05 PM

EPNCSU2006

Lead Driver

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 9,555

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From: Concord, NC

If you're set on getting a reader, that's fine, but just in case you didn't know, you can run the same tests and get the same codes using only a paper clip or jumper wire.

EEC IV Self Test hookup

Leave out the test light/analog volt meter in the diagrams on the linked page and count the blinks on the check engine light.

Oct 15, 2009 | 06:10 PM

apb

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Joined: Oct 2009

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I just got an Actron CP-9190 which seems to do ok. It will datalog as well as do STAR tests. It was $265 at Amazon. You can get readers for less but this one seems to do anything you would need on obd1 fords plus it will do the latest obd2 stuff also.

Oct 16, 2009 | 07:51 AM

TexasGuy001

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Joined: Sep 2001

Posts: 11,958

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I have the innova 3145. It has a digital display, and is not expensive. I'm happy with it.

I didn't know that Actron made one that would do OBD I and OBD II. We have an Actron OBD II unit and it is nice.

Oct 17, 2009 | 02:48 PM

80skeys

Thread Starter

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Joined: Oct 2009

Posts: 44

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From: Grand Junction, CO

Quote:

Originally Posted by EPNCSU2006

Awesome. I like that.
I didn't read your post until after I bought a scanner! But that's okay, I got a cheap actron for $30 on ebay. We'll see how it works for me. I don't want to spend $200 on a scanner - that's 1/5 what the truck cost me!