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Can someone recomend a good scan tool

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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 01:40 AM
  #1  
socal85tam's Avatar
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From: L.A.
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 383 HSR
Transmission: 4 speed Automatic
Axle/Gears: 4:10
Can someone recomend a good scan tool

Hey guys, I want to get a scan tool to check a problem I have with my car.
Can you tell me what type of scan tool you are using, how much you spent, an where can I get it?
Thanks
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 09:50 AM
  #2  
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From: conway, s.c.
Car: 1989 Iroc-Z
Engine: 5.7L TPI
Transmission: 700R4
I am using the Auto X-ray EZ--Scan 6000 and have had no problems with it. You can order it from Advance Auto Parts and it runs for about $699.00 + tax. Others on the board are using Snap-On, Diacom, Actron, and some use laptop based software and cables.

The Trickster!!!!!!!!
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 10:22 AM
  #3  
JERRYWHO's Avatar
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From: So-cal.
If you have a laptop, Datamaster is $219 for the cable and software and is very good.

http://ttspowersystems.com/diagnostic.htm

Jerry
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 03:26 PM
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BretD 88GTA's Avatar
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From: Woodland Hills, CA USA
Car: Yes...
Engine: Last time I checked...
Transmission: See "Engine"...
I too am using the Auto X-ray 6000. It's a pretty nice unit. At close to $700 it's a little pricey, but it comes with like 5 different cables so you can scan a wide variety of cars and you can transfer the data to a PC and graph the readings with some included software.

The cheaper scanners ($200 on average) will only be set up to work on your specific make of car - i.e. GM OBD I or GM OBD II. You can upgrade them, but you have to pay an upgrade fee for each type of vehicle/make you want to add (typically $99 per make). The upgrade consists of a new cable and an access code to unlock the software. Also, the upgrades are only available thru the manufacturer.

It all depends on how much use you think you'll get out of it. AutoZone carries the Auto X-ray and Actron brand scanners.

As Jerry mentioned, if you already have a PC laptop, Datamaster is a good way to go and will give more in depth information.

Last edited by BretD 88GTA; Feb 8, 2004 at 03:28 PM.
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 03:49 PM
  #5  
socal85tam's Avatar
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From: L.A.
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 383 HSR
Transmission: 4 speed Automatic
Axle/Gears: 4:10
As Jerry mentioned, if you already have a PC laptop, Datamaster is a good way to go and will give more in depth information


I don't have a lap top computer, but I might consider buying a used one if that way is better and cheaper than buying a scan tool.
If I decide to buy a scan tool, I won't use it much, I just want to troubleshoot a intermitent problem that I have with my camaro. So, I think that I can get one specifically made to test my car, right?
Thanks
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 04:53 PM
  #6  
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From: Lakewood, ca. USA
If you are interested in a laptop, check out www.notebookavenue.com. The manufacturers don't repair laptops on warranty, they just replace them. Notebook Avenue goes through laptops that are returned for warranty reasons and does needed repairs. They sell them as reconditioned for great savings.

Last edited by Russ-So Cal; Feb 8, 2004 at 04:56 PM.
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 07:56 PM
  #7  
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Car: 1990 Pontiac Trans Am
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Axle/Gears: 12-Bolt 3.73
Datamaster doesnt work with 85 computers, and it has limited support for 86-89. Its mostly for 90's and up.
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Old Feb 8, 2004 | 11:57 PM
  #8  
socal85tam's Avatar
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From: L.A.
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 383 HSR
Transmission: 4 speed Automatic
Axle/Gears: 4:10
Datamaster doesnt work with 85 computers, and it has limited support for 86-89. Its mostly for 90's and up.


Then the best way will be a scan tool, althoug the car is an 88 camaro, I would like to be able to use it to tune and troubleshoot any issues with the trans am too.
Thanks
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