Getting setup for AlphaOBD, need OBD Reader, MX+ or LX?

[Bob G]

I have a 2019 RAM 2500 Cummins and the wife has a 2023 1500 EcoDiesel So I am trying to get set up with ALPHAOBD, but need to order a ODB Reader (Just ordered the KAODTech harness for my truck). I see that the OBDLink MX+ (Bluetooth) and EX (USB cable) are the recommended OBD readers by AlphaOBD. However I have seen some folks say that the OBDLink LX is fine if you don't need or want IOS support.

We don't do Apple Phones! The wife and I have android phones, I have an android tablet, as well as Windows laptops and computers

Anyone using the OBDLink LX? Any problems or issues? Should I go ahead and just get the MX+?

Any recommendations on a good set of instructions/tutorial for using AlphoOBD? Recommended Changes?

My immediate reason for getting setup is an issue with the TPMS on my 2019 2500.

Thanks for the help/comments!

 

[Topzide]

I got the MX+ being is it's less problematic with AlfaOBD. The first thing you'll want to do is to save the CONFIG file so if there's an issue, you'll have something to compare to. I also keep a log book of any changes that I've made. Helps to keep track of things. Do only one thing and allow the computer to update any of the change before moving on. Sometimes a change needs several changes, that's all the same item. don't try to do 2 or more different changes at a time.
https://www.ramforum.com/threads/alfaobd.123982/ has some very good info to read about what AlfaOBD can do. Ask up on here as many of us have it and can lend a hand to help.
You'll be able to lower the TPMS threshold to not have the warning light, Fog lamp drop out when high beams on. You'll be able to check you lights on trucks and trailers by yourself with AlfaOBD, test many functions, read and delete codes, live data logging. Update should be done soon to allow you to program your own fobs, (which I've done on mine and a 300) turn on VTA (vehicle theft alarm) if not already active.
Don't hesitate to post up questions or PM me if you wish. I'll walk you through the basics and help with specifics. Great tool for the tool box!

 

[kthaxton]

OBDLink says it works with ALPHA......might be worth quickly trying to verify today....because it's on sale for "Prime Big Deals" day.

I'm grabbing a NOCO jump starter since they are on sale too.

 

[AH64ID]

OBDLink says it works with ALPHA......might be worth quickly trying to verify today....because it's on sale for "Prime Big Deals" day.

I'm grabbing a NOCO jump starter since they are on sale too.

Which size NOCO did you get?

I have a 2019 RAM 2500 Cummins and the wife has a 2023 1500 EcoDiesel So I am trying to get set up with ALPHAOBD, but need to order a ODB Reader (Just ordered the KAODTech harness for my truck). I see that the OBDLink MX+ (Bluetooth) and EX (USB cable) are the recommended OBD readers by AlphaOBD. However I have seen some folks say that the OBDLink LX is fine if you don't need or want IOS support.

We don't do Apple Phones! The wife and I have android phones, I have an android tablet, as well as Windows laptops and computers

Anyone using the OBDLink LX? Any problems or issues? Should I go ahead and just get the MX+?

Any recommendations on a good set of instructions/tutorial for using AlphoOBD? Recommended Changes?

My immediate reason for getting setup is an issue with the TPMS on my 2019 2500.

Thanks for the help/comments!

AlfaOBD only works on Android and PC's, so that's really immaterial for the program. The MX+ is still the preferred adapter.

I have a cheaper BAFX adapter, but will be snagging a MX+ since the BAFX can't do everything AlfaOBD can. I believe it's the IHS bus compatibility that is needed for some of the modules.

If you just want basic functionality, TPMS/lights/etc, then the LX should work. The BAFX will also work, as that's what I've used on my 18 and 22, as well as several friends and families Rams.

I have a BAFX android only Bluetooth dongle I’d part with for the cost of shopping.

 

[sag2]

Before I purchased the MX I used a $15.00 generic dongle for a year or more with no concerns.

 

[kthaxton]

Which size NOCO did you get?

I got the GB70 2000 amp unit. It is one size smaller than they recommend for a 6.7 liter Diesel, but it is primarily for my 4Runner and my RZR. The larger one was pretty spendy and would just be too big for storing in the 4Runner or RZR when I am loaded up for the backcountry. I figure it might be enough to jump the Cummins unless it is really, really dead. Plus, it is rare that I would need it for the truck.

 

[kthaxton]

I guess the Amazon sale is still going on....I thought it was yesterday only.

 

[AH64ID]

I got the GB70 2000 amp unit. It is one size smaller than they recommend for a 6.7 liter Diesel, but it is primarily for my 4Runner and my RZR. The larger one was pretty spendy and would just be too big for storing in the 4Runner or RZR when I am loaded up for the backcountry. I figure it might be enough to jump the Cummins unless it is really, really dead. Plus, it is rare that I would need it for the truck.

Yeah, I know what you mean. I went back and forth on the GB70 and the GB150, and settled on the GB150. I decided I’d be really pissed with myself if I was in the back country with a dead/low battery and the family on a 10° day and had scrimped on the battery pack. For 95% of my uses the GB70 would be more than plenty, but that darn Murphy’s law.

I guess the Amazon sale is still going on....I thought it was yesterday only.

I saw that, and thought so too so I but the bullet on the GB150 last night.

 

[crispyboy]

Alpha OBD question. I saw a Black Friday sale and picked up a Lenovo M10 plus tablet. It runs Android 12 operating system. I emailed Alpha about tablet compatibility. According to the Alpha website at least Android 4.0.3 is required. Alpha could not answer my question compatibility. I live in the Apple world so the Android world is new to me.
Thoughts?

 

[Topzide]

@crispyboy, If the tablet is running Android, you're good to go! Don't worry about how android works as it's just an operating system like Windows. Just remember to save the config file of truck first thing. That way you'll have base line of how trucks is and if something doesn't work, you can go back to. I printed mine out to compare and keep track of the changes. You'll like the diagnostics that is available. If you have any questions, just post up and we'll try to find the answers to get you going. MX+ has a Black Friday deal on their dongles if interested. Enjoy your day! Turkey coma by 3PM!

 

[rynosback]

I got the MX+ being is it's less problematic with AlfaOBD. The first thing you'll want to do is to save the CONFIG file so if there's an issue, you'll have something to compare to. I also keep a log book of any changes that I've made. Helps to keep track of things. Do only one thing and allow the computer to update any of the change before moving on. Sometimes a change needs several changes, that's all the same item. don't try to do 2 or more different changes at a time.
https://www.ramforum.com/threads/alfaobd.123982/ has some very good info to read about what AlfaOBD can do. Ask up on here as many of us have it and can lend a hand to help.
You'll be able to lower the TPMS threshold to not have the warning light, Fog lamp drop out when high beams on. You'll be able to check you lights on trucks and trailers by yourself with AlfaOBD, test many functions, read and delete codes, live data logging. Update should be done soon to allow you to program your own fobs, (which I've done on mine and a 300) turn on VTA (vehicle theft alarm) if not already active.
Don't hesitate to post up questions or PM me if you wish. I'll walk you through the basics and help with specifics. Great tool for the tool box!

I’ll Probobly be hitting you up soon.

 

[rynosback]

Is there a forum or FB about Rams specifically about Rams? It looks like Forscan and or OBDwiz comes with the OBDlink EX. I also have a Mazda 3 besides my Ram. What are the limitation differences between Farscan, OBDwiz and Alphaobd? I’m planning on buying the AlphaOBD as from I have read you can do so much more with our Rams. Thanks for your feedback and advice.
I have found a FB group, but it looks like it is really a Ford group.

 

[Topzide]

Here's a good forum, lot's of info and help; https://www.ramforum.com/threads/alfaobd.123982/ and another; https://www.cumminsforum.com/forums/alfaobd.1191/

 

[rynosback]

Thanks.