alright so i've seen it in threads all the time where they tell you to use the paper click trick to read codes or something.

what is the paper clip trick? i would like to know instead of having to go to my mechanic friend and hook the whole damn computer up and waste all the gas driving there....

 

The paper clip is done as follows: find a medium size paper clip, unfold it and bend it in the shape of a "U". Locate your ALDL (computer) connector under the dash, remove the plastic cover (if it still has it) MAKE SURE YOUR IGNITION IS OFF. Insert the paper clip into the two rightmost (A/B) connectors on the top row of the ALDL connector should look like this

- - - - 0 0
- - - - - -

the "o"'s represent the slots where you stick both parts of the paper clip, after you have done so, turn your key to run, but do not turn engine on this is commonly refered to (KOEO) key on engine off on these forums...your check engine light will begin to blink a sequence of codes, it will start with blink (pause) blink blink, indicating the number 12 (which is basically a code telling you that the ecm is not receiving a signal form the distributor, you will always start with code 12, pretty much consider it a handshake code....., code 32 is indicated as blink blink blink (pause) blink blink, the codes will be repeated three times in total, going down all of the codes which may be stored on the ecm, when it's done, it's going to go back to flashing code 12 and then it will start to go through the codes again

When you're done, make sure to TURN KEY OFF AND THEN REMOVE THE PAPER CLIP, FAILURE TO DO SO WILL POSSIBLY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO YOUR ECM (as per Chilton's Repair Manual)

Good Luck!!