Service Manual: Print or CD version?

[DHenry]

I went to Tech Authority and see that the '02 Ram Service Manuals are listed in both print and CD form. I've always had printed versions in the past, which is nice so you can take the manual out while you're working on the vehicle, but now I'm considering the CD version, since I suppose one could just print the pages of interest. Any thoughts? Does anybody, having used both, have a clear preference for one form versus the other? Also, do you recommend the Diagnostic Manuals too?



Thanks,

 

[RJOL]

Although the CD's would be nice, there's nothing better then being able to spread the book out and work from there, especially when tracing wires etc... .

 

[LSMITH]

I think the CD would be the best option. You can print the section you need and not worry about getting the pages dirty, you can just throw them away when you are done. Electronic media also gives you the option of printing the pictures or diagrams full page so they are easier to see or read. Personally I would go for the CD. I used CD reference material in my last job, and it is far better IMO than a printed book for the reasons mentioned above.

 

[DennyDay]

Service Man.

Since I always have a lap top with me, I vote for the CD version. I don't take the manual with me for space considerations, but I would the CD.

Denny

 

[GFoley]

Printed or CD

I think you answered your own question with your second sentence. I like to be able to read the FSM or other publications whereever and whenever I want. With a CD I would be locked to the terminal to do heavy browsing, and certianlly to do any printing.



Since I work on the truck in the garage or driveway I prefer my printed manual. Wife would probably get really mad if I tried to work on it in the room with the computer, landlord probably wouldn't be real happy as well either.



Our Uncle Sam has put more and more Field Manuals and regulations on CDs than I'll ever need. What really stinks is when the computer goes down, nobody gets to any of them then. Of course I'll be behind cover with a full basic load and won't really care about manuals and regs when they lets us do what we volunteered to do!



GLFoley

 

[illflem]

I used to use Alldata for the manuals but once I had the printed version I slowly drifted away from the online version just because of convenience. Now all I use is the printed version. I usually can find things faster in a printed version. For the price you pay for the FSM they should give you the CD for free. Is it legal to copy the CD as long as you don't sell it?

 

[klenger]

No.

 

[CoastyAV8R]

I got the printed version because I always carry it in my truck and if I get stranded on the side with no computer or a dead battery in the computer, your CD player in the truck won't cut it. If you always have a fresh battery for your laptop and always have it with you, I would get the CD. For me the manual works best and that is my reasoning. They cost the same.



Pat

 

[Doc Tinker]

I'd go with the printed version. The CD might be nice for quick referance, like for looking up something if I call you for help, but the printed version will be easier to deal with in the field. Besides. . oil, dirt and grease between the the pages (sticky pages) gives the book character



Doc

 

[cullyguy]

As far as copying the CD goes. You need to read the license that comes with the CD program itself. Many programs permit the purchaser (or license holder as the case may be) to make 1- working copy for their use. This allows the user to keep the original copy in a safe place, protected from damage. Example: I have a program for my fuel injection box on my Harley. I make a copy of the programming CD & load it into my laptop, which goes out to the garage with me. The original copy stays safe in my office. Most writers of CD programs are not so concerned with the "Copying of the CD" , but that only one copy of the program is loaded into 1 computer, per licesnse paid for. Again, Please read the license that came with the program CD, to find out the specific intent of the writer and / or the seller of the program.



OH, yes the main topic, I'd go for the CD, So I could print what I needed and not worry about messing up the whole manual. I might change my mind when they come out with beer cans that won't fall over on my bench

 

[Mactruck]

Where do you get the CD?

Now that we have two 2001's it makes more sense to have one.

Is there a website?

 

[DHenry]

Website and price

Thanks for the input you all have given so far, with good reasoning from both opinions. I need a tie-breaker.



As for the website, it is http://www.techauthority.daimlerchrysler.com.



Regarding cost, the 2001 printed and CD versions are the same price at $90, whereas the 2002 printed and CD versions are $110 and $90, respectively.