Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Question on Code readers/diagnostics

[Ramtuf1]

Looking for a recommendation on a good diagnostic all around code reading tool which also has capabilities for clearing codes and computer updates. My truck indicating 0120 code via odometer display and would like to be able to clear without disconnecting batteries as well as read codes externally. Like to add it to my tool inventory which I could use in general automotive diagnostics.

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

Smarty!

Godspeed,
Trent

 

[JLandry]

The ScanGauge is pretty neat. It's an electronic trip computer that doubles up as a code scanner (also erased codes) for about the same price as a stand alone code scanner.



I have one and have been very happy with it.



John L.

 

[Ramtuf1]

I know of Smarty's capabilities but I'm looking for one that will work in most vehicles with OBDI and OBDII. I guess I should read a bit more on Smarty. Thanks for the reply Trent (blacksheepdiesel)



I'll check out the link, John and read up on it. I just am interested in buying one and I figured what better than to ask the group who have lots of experience in this regards. Appreciate the replies.

 

[JLandry]

Mike,



I just got an email from a supplier where I've purchased OBD cables and such before. They have the ScanGauge on sale for $159. 95 with an extra OBDII cable (so you can easily use it in two cars) and free shipping included. Check it out if you care to:



OBD2Cables.com



Best regards,



John L.

 

[Ramtuf1]

I'm going to check out the link and go from there. Appreciate the come back. As I mentioned, like to buy one that will help diagnose problems in most vehicles.

 

[jeepit]

Looks like a nice code reader to have.....

 

[Ramtuf1]

Just to revisit this. I was able to address the problem with the code that was being set. I cleared it by disconnecting the battery for a while. I reset the voltage on the APPS to the preset voltage marked on the plate. I have not had the code come back.



I now have a 1693 code (I responded to another thread on this problem) and I was just wondering if there are any further suggestions on code scanners. Guess I need to bite the bullet and get one to trouble shoot the 1693 code further.

 

[Ramtuf1]

Welcome further comments





Just to revisit this thread and perhaps get more comments. I bought an Actron "Elite AutoScanner CP9185" to help me out of my problem. I appreciated the recommendations but I was looking for a fairly good one to help not only with the truck but with my ailing car which kicked a code also and set the check engine light to "On". This one is up towards the top of their models and is upgradeable with the computer. It graphs outputs and I was very successful in finding the problem with the car and going right to the source of the problem.



Now the truck..... It doesn't give me the engine selection for my year and model so reverts to a generic communication protocol and provides me only a few generic parameters to display and monitor. The "1693" code was still set and it indicated that there were no codes. I was, however, able to clear the codes to see if it really was a problem and if it would set again. It has.



I'm going to have the dealership read them for me today and see what if anything needs to be worked on. Going back to the Code Scanner. How much do you have to spend to get one that will get further into the Dodge Diesel without going to the Dodge factory diagnostics? I have read other threads that indicate that you have to spend more to get one that will read the Dodge/Cummins. Can anyone give me brand names and models that I can check into to further my choices. I would like to be able to read several of the modules in the truck and I'm not sure that is possible without going to factory equipment. It may be a transmission problem of other and the code has to be stored somewhere.