2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Scan Tool for ABS and PCM

[Grinder1]

Anyone know about scan tools that will work on our 1995 and older trucks? I've seen scanners that work on '96 and up, which have the OBD system. Correct me if I'm wrong. Just had a shop scan my ABS system and found fault code #65-main relay open. they were not able to clear it. Said the ABS Control Module might be bad. They used a Snap-On MT2500 scanner which I've seen for anywhere from $150 to $800, depending on adapters and newest model years covered. I absolutely HATE #@$%! the fact that I have to rely on someone else to diagnose my truck. I don't like part swapping to figure things out, esp. when it's a $600 part. Need some ideas ASAP.

 

[ToddShepard]

I got a Powertrain Diagnostics Manual off of Ebay for about $20. It is all about using the Chrysler DBR scan tool to diagnose electrical problems. It has lots of great info and identifys wires and pin outs. You will find most can be done with a VOM. I bought a used MT2500 snap-on and it will let you operate several relays and do real time cruise control but it is rather limited in its scope of diagnosing. I believe the DBR tool was sold only inside Chrysler and was very expensive.

 

[Grinder1]

That's good info Todd. I'll have to check out getting one of those manuals. Do you remember how much the MT2500 cost? Does yours have the black reprogrammable cartridges for later year vehicles?

 

[ToddShepard]

I found mine used locally on craigslist. I think I got it for $80. It was a "brick" and a few GM and import cards... ... . I had to get a chrysler adapter and both cards from Ebay but they were reasonable. I made my own powercord from radioshack. Those black cards are awfully expensive, I can't justify them for my newer vehicles.

 

[JKosten]

I have a 96 2500 and access to a mt2500, but don't have the books to go with it. What cable and key to i need to access the ABS computer codes? i tried the obdII plug with key 13 and it said no comm to computer on both engine and ABS.

Thank you

 

[Hooty222]

Grinder I had a problem with my truck same thing... . used a buddys computer to scan. . I replaced the abs computer with a junkyard unit and no more "relay code" but it still didnt work. . (Well it would work for two minutes until the computer did a system check) it needed to have the flashed vin on the ABS match what your truck's computer is expecting(your truck's VIN). Dealer only unless you can find someone with a drb III programmer ($2000. 00 or so on ebay) i got a mopar book on the abs systems in our trucks, if you need more info.