Code reader

KRAWLER · Jul 20, 2011

Bringing my 89 tang 5.0 with RJM harness to life in the next few days. Last purchase is a code reader. I have been to Advance and Auto Zone looking at them. Which specific brand and type do you recommend?

Thanks,

Broncobowsher · Jul 20, 2011

Paperclip brand.

There is a simple way with using a jumper wire (paperclip) that will blink lights at you. Does the exact same thing as the $60 reader does but costs $60 less.

Off the top of my head, www.fordfuelinjection.com has the instructions and the codes.

KRAWLER · Jul 20, 2011

Thats awesome info, kinda wanting a cheap economical reader though.

Steve83 · Jul 20, 2011

More in this caption & the links in it:

jw0747 · Jul 20, 2011

here's mine. it's fairly cheap because you have to count light flashes but it works.

http://www.amazon.com/Actron-CP9015-Ford-Code-Scanner/dp/B0006V2BGY

jw0747 · Jul 20, 2011

also spotted this one which is digital.

http://www.amazon.com/Equus-3145-Ford-Digital-Reader/dp/B000EW0KHW/ref=pd_sim_auto_1

Steve83 · Jul 20, 2011

Even the expensive digital EEC-IV scanners often make mistakes. Counting flashes is 100% accurate (if YOU do it right), and there's no reason to buy a "scanner" for flashing light. If you don't already have a CEL, you can build your own light on the dash with a test switch for next to nothing.

blazinchuck · Jul 21, 2011

i wired my factory "brake" light as the engine light...i also have a grounded wired mounted near the test plug behind the glove box. if the light ever comes on, i just plug the grounded wire in and count the flashes...works great. now i dont have to fumble for a paper clip or jumper wire...now its always there ready to use lol

KRAWLER · Jul 21, 2011

Sweet, now i need to learn to count i suppose. Thanks guys.

76 bronco J · Jul 21, 2011

>>> another EFI tool everybody might want to consider getting is a breakout box... it allows you to read sensor voltages without probing under connectors or through wire insulation....I tried it out on my friends mustang & it's awesome to just sit there & probe into the little box to see actual operating voltage parameters .....they are way out of the price range for the average home mechanic when bought new, but you can find some awesome deals on ebay.....I purchased a thexton 126 -EEC-IV unit that originally listed for over $800 new......grand total was $36 & change including shipping......

blazinchuck · Jul 21, 2011

76 bronco J said:
>>> another EFI tool everybody might want to consider getting is a breakout box... it allows you to read sensor voltages without probing under connectors or through wire insulation....I tried it out on my friends mustang & it's awesome to just sit there & probe into the little box to see actual operating voltage parameters .....they are way out of the price range for the average home mechanic when bought new, but you can find some awesome deals on ebay.....I purchased a thexton 126 -EEC-IV unit that originally listed for over $800 new......grand total was $36 & change including shipping......

that is WAY cool!!!

Steve83 · Jul 21, 2011

These cost more than your eBay breakout box, but they're also more useful:

Code reader

KRAWLER

Sr. Member

Broncobowsher

Total hack

KRAWLER

Sr. Member

Steve83

Bronco Guru

jw0747

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jw0747

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Steve83

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blazinchuck

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KRAWLER

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76 bronco J

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