Do you guys know if there's a connector that allows a laptop to be plugged up to the onboard computer on a 1988 TA? Software as well - I'm not sure what all the capabilities may or may not be, but I'd like to be able to get ECM codes, etc..

Not even quite sure what you would call the connector off the top of my head. Friend of mine has one for his Jetta, so I know they exist.

 

Okay, slow down here.

First, it's called an Assembly Line Diagnostic Connector(ALDL)

Second, to pull codes, you don't need a laptop.

Third, you should really look through the tech articles, stickys, and faq's. ALL of your answers are there.

 

yeah I made one myself... if you're handy with a soldering iron ... it runs on diacom which is downloadable somewhere probably.... it's connected to the printer port. I posted a pic of it on the "can't read O2 sensor" topic, then you can see what it looks like.

the connector is called ALDL connector. I haven't found one yet, I use just the wires and put them in

for codes you won't need a laptop. Pull key out, short pins A+B, put key in and turn to "run" without cranking.

 

Ok - thanks, I didn't see that one at first. TONS of info to pour over here. Thanks for the good info in any event, it'll give me a good spot to start

And actually - just a FYI on the various 'jumpers' I've seen for this - Autozone actually gives away a little 'key' that will jumper those two terminals just to make it easy.

 

I've got a paper clip 6" from me. Even easier