Live data scan tool for '92 or '93 PA's
doorunrun
09-27-2008, 12:00 PM
In the course of repairing my car I came across a pretty good deal on a live data scan tool that might appeal to you '92 or '93 PA owners. It can be a pretty cheap solution but locks you into that vintage of automobile.
Step 1. Be on the lookout for a great eBay or Craigslist deal on an OTC Monitor 2000 with cables.
Step 2. Find a good deal on a OTC Domestic Pathfinder module with users guide (get the Pathfinder II for a '93).
Be Aware:
This scan tool is not bi-directional. You can't send data to the car.
This tool WILL cover ABS and Airbag data!
You'll need the user manual to look up the meaning of the "mode" data.
It is NOT a Tech1, nor is it priced like one.
The Domestic Pathfinder module covers GM, Ford and Chrysler up to '92. In my case there are a few values I didn't see like crank sensor data and boost pressure. I don't know if they are in the data stream.
I just purchased a combo of these for $70 delivered. There were some additional items thrown into the deal. It works very well on my '92 PAU and helped me solve my latest problem with it. If you have ever "shotgunned" a repair job, you know that $70 ain't too bad after you replace the MAF, IAC, ICM, plugs, cables and are still at square one.
I guess these scanners are getting dumped because they were really designed to be used on cars up through '89 and that's the way they get described on eBay, etc. This will probably have to do with any modules that are included with the deal. As you know the early '90's PA's are a special breed and represent an awesome bargain today. :wink:
From what I see, the Pathfinder modules will fit the Monitor 2000 and the Monitor 4000. The '4000 has more features and will get you up a few more model years, with the right Pathfinder module, and thus are more attractive.
Others may want to comment on their choice for data scan tool. In current production there's the Actron and AutoXray, they are more expensive, but they do cover OBD2. I haven't used one of these so I can't really comment. There may be other "vintage" scan tools that can get you the data you need to fix your problem. I tried to use my laptop with an interface cable, downloaded engine management software but I could not get it to work on my PAU.
The way I see it, this tool is now part of my car. We don't have any OBD2 cars right now. I'm happy with it and now I can sell my OTC 3758 ABS reader. Interested?
Step 1. Be on the lookout for a great eBay or Craigslist deal on an OTC Monitor 2000 with cables.
Step 2. Find a good deal on a OTC Domestic Pathfinder module with users guide (get the Pathfinder II for a '93).
Be Aware:
This scan tool is not bi-directional. You can't send data to the car.
This tool WILL cover ABS and Airbag data!
You'll need the user manual to look up the meaning of the "mode" data.
It is NOT a Tech1, nor is it priced like one.
The Domestic Pathfinder module covers GM, Ford and Chrysler up to '92. In my case there are a few values I didn't see like crank sensor data and boost pressure. I don't know if they are in the data stream.
I just purchased a combo of these for $70 delivered. There were some additional items thrown into the deal. It works very well on my '92 PAU and helped me solve my latest problem with it. If you have ever "shotgunned" a repair job, you know that $70 ain't too bad after you replace the MAF, IAC, ICM, plugs, cables and are still at square one.
I guess these scanners are getting dumped because they were really designed to be used on cars up through '89 and that's the way they get described on eBay, etc. This will probably have to do with any modules that are included with the deal. As you know the early '90's PA's are a special breed and represent an awesome bargain today. :wink:
From what I see, the Pathfinder modules will fit the Monitor 2000 and the Monitor 4000. The '4000 has more features and will get you up a few more model years, with the right Pathfinder module, and thus are more attractive.
Others may want to comment on their choice for data scan tool. In current production there's the Actron and AutoXray, they are more expensive, but they do cover OBD2. I haven't used one of these so I can't really comment. There may be other "vintage" scan tools that can get you the data you need to fix your problem. I tried to use my laptop with an interface cable, downloaded engine management software but I could not get it to work on my PAU.
The way I see it, this tool is now part of my car. We don't have any OBD2 cars right now. I'm happy with it and now I can sell my OTC 3758 ABS reader. Interested?
Automotive Network, Inc., Copyright ©2024