2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Actron vs ScanGuage

[Gunhill]

I have an 02 HO, 6spd. I'm looking into scanner/diagnostic tools. Actron and ScanGuage seem to be mentioned the most. Actron's selection tool leads me down the path of a 9180 or 9185. I've also read some good general comments about the Scanguage 2.



In addition to checking for codes, I want to be able to check the APPS voltage, MAP sensor, voltage on the go. I've read several posts where a few of you have an Actron or ScanGuage scanner and love it for pulling/clearing codes but I haven't found anything concrete as to whether or not they will provide live data and/or which parameters they cover.



So the questions. For those of you that use Actron or ScanGuage2... . which sensors etc have you been able to read live? Have you had luck reading the MAP, APPS, Alt voltage, cam/crank sensors etc??



thanks

 

[JLandry]

Gunhill,



The Scanguage will display percent (0-100%) of TPS (APPS) application, but not the actual voltage. It will also show the MAP and a other basic OBDII information, but none of the actual sensor voltages.



As far as I know you need a pretty high-end tool to do that... like a Chrysler DRBIII or equivalent.



Best regards,



John L.

 

[David_VT]

I like the SGII and the ability to make custom gauges. I must confess I use mine on my crown vics rather than the rusty dodge. I have not looked to see if folks have made any custom SGII gauges.

 

[Bob Cochran]

I don't believe the ScanGage or Actron will give you what you want. You don't have to pay thousands for a DRB III though there are other computer programs that my do what you want but a little less expensive. I have been looking at the AutoEnginuity for one but have no real knowledge or know anyone who has used on for our applications. Just a place to start looking; here is the link.

AutoEnginuity® - OBD2 Scan Tool - Professional PC and PDA Diagnostics

 

[Bob Cochran]

Here another one a little cheaper. Again no experience with the AutoTap.

AutoTap Express DIY - OBDII Scanner

 

[Gunhill]

Thanks for the response guys.



Appears the autoenginuty is capable of quite a bit. I see they even have support for the newer Cummins engines specifically.



John/David: On the ScanGuage I assume the percent voltage would for example increase on the APPS sensor until I hit wide open throttle unless there was a bad spot and then the percentage voltage would drop until I was able to push beyond that. correct?

 

[JLandry]

On the ScanGuage I assume the percent voltage would for example increase on the APPS sensor until I hit wide open throttle unless there was a bad spot and then the percentage voltage would drop until I was able to push beyond that. correct?

I think I understand your question as: Can the ScanGauge be used to diagnose an APPS problem?



My answer would be: Possibly, but there's a better and simpler way.



If the APPS had a dead spot somewhere in the travel of its internal rheostat, in theory this would show up on the ScanGauge as a non-linear change in the % of application indicated by the display. In reality though the ScanGauge only updates so fast and looking for this sort of thing using any DIGITAL display is difficult... even if you were using a $3000 Chrysler DRBIII scan tool. I have one and can assure you it's no better than using a digital multimeter... worse in many ways.



A much simpler and cheaper solution is to simply hook up an inexpensive ANALOG voltmeter (or multimeter) to the correct APPS wires and watch for a smooth sweep of the meter needle as you open and close the APPS. Digital displays aren't as good for observing changes or trends as an analog display. If you feel you need to observe your APPS voltage while driving, then you can buy (or make) extension leads for the voltmeter and temporarily tape or Velcro the meter to the dash right in front of you!



I hope that helps.



John L.

 

[Gunhill]

John,

The APPS is one sensor I'm wanting to monitor but I am also curious if my MAP or other sensors might be acting up.



I have checked my APPS in the past as you mention but with a digital multimeter. I'm just after a simple way to able to monitor things as I go down the road because whichever gremlin I'm chasing is random and thus far doesn't happen very often. I'm afraid it's the computer on the injection pump but I want to rule out the cheaper potential problems first.



thanks

brad

 

[JLandry]

The APPS is one sensor I'm wanting to monitor but I am also curious if my MAP or other sensors might be acting up. I have checked my APPS in the past as you mention but with a digital multimeter. I'm just after a simple way to able to monitor things as I go down the road because whichever gremlin I'm chasing is random and thus far doesn't happen very often. I'm afraid it's the computer on the injection pump but I want to rule out the cheaper potential problems first.

Brad,



It sounds like some sort of recording device would work best in your situation... something that could capture the desired sensor output for later review. The Chrysler DRBIII is capable of this to a limited extent, but besides the ridiculous street price (see eBay), you can forget about trying to read it while driving... it's dangerous.



A software solution running on a laptop in your truck would likely be best.



Good luck with your search and please let us know what you find.



John L.

 

[Bob Cochran]

I sure hate interment problems and it seems that is all we see for the most part. I agree the only safe way is to us a computer system monitoring constantly and recording. After it happens go home or stop at a safe place to review recording.

Most will not put out the money for the computer system. Most will take advice from others who had the same or similar problems and what part fixed it and changed that part unless we are talking about the injection pump(even then). In a lot of cases this is cheaper than the software programs especially the DRBIII.

I hate just throwing parts at a problem but so far have not justified to myself the cost of the software to diagnose the problem better. Good luck.