In Cylinder Pressure Transducer Diagnostics | Ditex PDS500X | Mechanic Mindset

[@georgedass5419]

Oh my, this is content that's needed. So sad all getting to see this now, i wish i had been with you from before. Informative

[@MechanicMindset]

Glad you are enjoying the channel George!

[@MiracleMAX]

Hey Mate, For a basic explanation, you covered a lot! You can spend hours on that single waveform. The old Pico is starting to show it's limits. I just bought the latest 4425A Pico with the current Beta 7 version. It is a purchase that I haven't regretted at all. Not cheap, but wow, what a cool piece of diagnostic equipment! As always, great video! 😉

[@MechanicMindset]

Cheers, you’re right, so much to cover on this waveform! We use 4425’s at the academy and they are great tools. I’ve had a play with Pico 7 but still love the normal 6 😂

[@MiracleMAX]

@@MechanicMindset Yeah, I have one at the college & one in my workshop. Still trying to get my head around Pico 7, but as they say, practice makes perfect (or average in my case...) 😉

[@MechanicMindset]

Hit this link to download waveforms and custom probe files! eepurl.com/g9VVl9

[@GerardBurkeBurkesGarage]

Great video Darren, well done mate. As you upgrade scope I might follow along with your selection :) The 2000 series is a fantastic tool in the price range and makes it a great one from home (out of workshop) use as well.

[@MechanicMindset]

I do love the 2204a but it does have it's limitations. I regularly use the 4425 in training delivery, i think that may be the way to go - watch this space!!

[@JS-ri2rx]

Excellent video. Kee them.coming. learning bits each time. Appreciate the time taken to create the videos

[@MechanicMindset]

Glad you are enjoying the learning! Are you a professional mechanic?

[@HeidiandFranny]

Great demonstration! That looks like a handy little accessory :)

[@MechanicMindset]

Cheers Franny, it’s a cool tool! Great job on the ignition diagnostics. I did have a go with it and had the same resolution problems

[@HeidiandFranny]

@@MechanicMindset Thanks for that! I think it is just the limit of the scope but I did get a little better resolution of I didn't use any scaling on the probe. Cool to have both probes - one to check the actual numbers and one to get a better waveform. Still, for the price the little Pico is pretty neat. Thanks for all your help! F

[@alrifainidal]

Great video Mate and quick explanation how to use the scope , well don

[@MechanicMindset]

Cheers Nidal, have you had a go with the in cylinder pressure tester before?

[@stephanevaucelles6378]

Hello and thank you for the presentation of this tool

[@MechanicMindset]

Glad you enjoyed it Stephane 👍

[@gcmd5852]

Nice work Darren, great explanation as always.

[@MechanicMindset]

Cheers George, I know you do a bit of in cylinder testing. What problems do you see the most?

[@gcmd5852]

@@MechanicMindset I’m still learning this technique but the most common issues I see with the GM vehicles are valve or lack of valve opening due to DOD lifers unlatching . Tbh though ( IMO ) the most useful information i would use it for would be verifying valve timing events. Most of the modern vehicles have cam/crank correlation variance scan tool data and its pretty reliable but its always nice to back up that data. An in cylinder test is a great way to do that. I personally don’t use it very often ( don't get too many situations that require it on a daily ) but when i do its a great tool to have. Kinda long winded answer right LOL.

[@MechanicMindset]

@@gcmd5852 Awesome, cheers for the insights. I agree, I can’t see this being a regular tool 👍

[@yakhunt9424]

Do you take requests? I need to check the function of a PWM IACV, a quick explanation or video of how to use a scope to establish the base frequency would really help me. Thanks

[@MechanicMindset]

Hi Yak, I do add videos to my list as requests come in (if I think I can help!). They do take some time so not sure I can get one up in time for your needs. i've not looked at idle air valves much, but there is a quick measurement function to read out the frequency of the waveform you have captured. Cheers

[@weshawkins7165]

Excellent video. Best explanation I’ve seen yet.

[@MechanicMindset]

Thanks Wes! What in cylinder pressure tester are you using?

[@weshawkins7165]

@@MechanicMindset I’m still old school, the hose adapter in place of the spark plugs and an analog pressure gauge. I was a dealer mechanic, GM then Chrysler back in the 70’s & 80’s, then went to work for the California Dept of Corrections in 88. However I still worked on cars at my shop at my house, still do after almost 34 years. The only training I get is from guys like you with your you tube channels. There are probably a dozen channels that are really good, your being one of them. The things I need to learn are as simple as where to hook up leads of these scopes to get the patterns I need to see and then explanations of what I’m looking at.

[@MechanicMindset]

@@weshawkins7165 Awesome!

[@weshawkins7165]

@@MechanicMindset If there is one thing I could ask is don’t think your being to simplistic in your teaching and explanations because there are probably a lot of mechanics that don’t understand a lot of the simple stuff but are embarrassed to asked the simple questions. Thanks for what you do.

[@przemekfryc5495]

Absolutely great video 👍👍👍👏👏

[@MechanicMindset]

Thanks!

[@soranghafour]

Thanks for a great explanation Darren it’s very informative and I have noticed you used voltage on injector sync can you use an amp clamp instead and if you could have dose it make any difference when come to sync and identify cylinder. Cheers

[@MechanicMindset]

Sure, an amp clamp will be fine, less intrusive actually 👍 Glad you’re enjoying the channel!

[@kellyreid8230]

Great Darren, as always thanks

[@MechanicMindset]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Have you done any of this before?

[@kellyreid8230]

@@MechanicMindset I have Darren,but trying to refine it before I move from my Verus to a Pico platform or a ATS. Scope. Wps is a great tool, but it is pricey. Thanks again.

[@CarsExposed]

Seem like a nice kit , great demo Darren 🙌

[@MechanicMindset]

Hey Igor, yeah it’s a good set; especially with all the adapters and the 200 - 500psi option. Hope you’re good; maybe we can catch up soon!

[@CarsExposed]

@@MechanicMindset things are slowly getting better a meet up this year sounds good to me 🤞

[@flippingcarsrepairs]

Wow you are very clever and helpful 👍👍👍👍👍

[@MechanicMindset]

Our PicoScope Training Is Now Live! www.mechanicmindset.com/diagnostic-coach

[@saibabupodala6297]

thank you this information Pico oscilloscope please explain AWG option

[@MechanicMindset]

Actually, there is not much you can do with AWG on automotive because the output voltage is too low

[@Lambros_Stefaneas]

very good video. learned something more from you ,again .👏👏👏

[@MechanicMindset]

Great to hear! Have you used an in cylinder pressure transducer before?

[@Lambros_Stefaneas]

@@MechanicMindset No.it's on my list to buy one.

[@arthurfricchione8119]

Darren I know you said disconnect the fuel injector but on Honda 3.5 they are very hard to get to. Can the cylinder be checked by disabling the fuel on all cylinders and check by just cranking the engine. Just checking with you first 😊 Artie

[@MechanicMindset]

Yeah for sure, you can do this cranking only too 👍

[@arthurfricchione8119]

@@MechanicMindset thank you buddy stay safe Artie 😊

[@renatairmarius123]

Hi mate, thanks for you video. Its realy interesting. Cylinder compresion sensor+scop its a New age off diagnostics. Thanks for video. I follow you.

[@MechanicMindset]

It’s great right!? I will revisit this waveform soon with some more points we need to look out for. Great to have you on the channel! 👍

[@rudimaier3679]

Hi Darren! Just a question. Justin Miller have a lot of useful videos like you with the 2204a on his channel. He is recommending to always max out the sample rate to 2MS i think. What do you think?

[@MechanicMindset]

Hi, Justin has some great content! In my opinion it’s no necessary to max out the sample rate; you can end up picking up unwanted ‘noise’. If you use a higher time scale (I.e. 200ms +) and you want to see detail after, then yes. I don’t often increase the sample rate. In fact, I have reduced for some tests to get a cleaner line (4425 has low pass filter which has a similar effect)

[@ELEISONCARABALLO]

Good video. Very instructional as always. Keep it up. By the way, will you buy a 4425? I have a 4423, will be its resolution OK with this transducer? Regards and felicitaciones

[@MechanicMindset]

I think the 4425 will be next! the 4423 will be fine, I think the specs of this scope are also very good (close to the 4425). Thanks!

[@paulmills7366]

Does the waveform pattern change much when comparing to an Atkinson or Bodack cycle engine?

[@MechanicMindset]

Assuming we can get the engine to run in this mode with a misfire and injector fault at idle, I suppose we would see some difference in the valve activity. As I understand, this mode is created using VVT and such so not sure when it is activated (assuming it runs normal Otto at idle?). Great question! 👍

[@autotronikmasterservices284]

I am interested in buying that kit. Could you help me I'm from Colombia.. please

[@MechanicMindset]

Hi, if you contact Ditex on the website, they can advise the nearest supplier or ship to you direct 👍

[@SabretoothBarnacle]

You're missing the 'this video' link you point to😉

[@MechanicMindset]

Oh, maybe it didn’t save. Thanks! 👍

[@pavel7311]

Hi, great, can I measure compression with Hantek too? Would it be possible to add Czech to the translator? I would very much like to attend the training

[@MechanicMindset]

You can do compression 👍

[@AVCONSULTTX]

Pointing put that the PicOScope likely isn't causing the steps in response. The steps appear to be the update rate from the pressure senor itself. The little spikes on the plateaus are the at the scope sample rate, which is a bit low @ 8k/sec. Could raise that to 100k or even 1M and still have plenty of buffer.

[@MechanicMindset]

I’ll give it a go, but pretty sure this is a vertical resolution issue. The 2204a is 8bit so only has 256 vertical ‘steps’ to recreate the scope waveform image. Compare this to a 12bit scope which has 4096 vertical steps and it will create a much smoother line 👍

[@splat7147]

Are you planning to test the more affordable Rotkee PS16 in cylinder pressure sensor?

[@MechanicMindset]

Will do mate, they are sending me some 👍

[@splat7147]

@@MechanicMindset Awesome! Thanks for all you do.

[@northpostman]

Good job Darren, if you really want to learn how to analyze this waveform, Bernie Thompson has some in depth videos on the ATS channel & website. John Thornton has a good video as well on the CTI channel. Brandon Steckler has some good pressure analysis videos as well.

[@MechanicMindset]

Cheers! I have been looking at this since made the video. It’s really quite an art, so many variables and dependencies!

[@northpostman]

@@MechanicMindset Yeah, I love it. I teach it to apprentices here in Canada. I use a 250 psi absolute transducer made by Honeywell. About $80 CND. Works great, I have the 2204a and the 4425 Pico scopes. The 2204a is a great little scope, but the 4425 is the king. I'd like to get my hands on an E-scope though, pretty cool features. I like your channel Darren, you have some really good stuff on here. I'm a retired tech. 30+ years in the trenches. College professor now. I've been using scopes since the 70's, started on the old Allen and Sun big box analyzers. Been using Pico for about 10 years. Still not sure on the Pico 7 software, it's nice but I'm so used to the 6 I'm finding it a bit clunky.

[@MechanicMindset]

@@northpostman Awesome, yes I saw some DIY sensors, you will see I love a cheaper alternative on this channel 😆 I love the 2204a, I made a course which shows you how to maximise all the features in Pico 6. At this point, you can really appreciate where the extra money for the 4425a is spent. I’ve been using my 4225a today with Pico 7; still some features missing but it is much more intuitive for beginners. Great to have you on the channel!

[@northpostman]

@@MechanicMindset Do you mind if I use some of your videos in the classroom?

[@MechanicMindset]

@@northpostman Please do! You’re very welcome 👍

[@ManuelAndresFernandezRey]

Dear Sir, the picoDiagnostics program can be used with the picoscope 2204A or 2204 thanks

[@MechanicMindset]

No, unfortunately you need the automotive scope

[@ManuelAndresFernandezRey]

Thank you. congratulations on your videos. has some video of the use of the inductive secondary probe in cop coils

[@MechanicMindset]

@@ManuelAndresFernandezRey yes, check out my videos where I use a coin on top of the coil, and another where I use a relay to measure the ignition coil waveform 👍

[@bizzy423]

How about reviewing cheaper versions like the ROTKEE PS16 pressure sensor those on a budget at 89 USD

[@MechanicMindset]

Will do when I get one. I have a big box of Rotkee stuff to review already! Not got time. What I am interested in is looking at DIY pressure transducers 😁

[@nwmartinzz]

I wonder if a GDI engine how can you disable injector if it under the intake manifold for the cylinder testing

[@MechanicMindset]

Hmm, good question! Some engines have a separate connector block for all injectors, you could disconnect that and just to a cranking measurement

[@nedhirdouiri]

For better "vertical resolution" what do I have to look for when Im buying a scope and how much it has to be as a value ?!!

[@MechanicMindset]

Well this 2204a is 8bits, which is ok for most tests. The automotive scope is 12bits. I find the 8bit scope struggles with this and other measurements like secondary ignition, but for everything else it’s great! You can see what I use it for in all my videos 👍

[@nedhirdouiri]

Thanks

[@AldiShuli]

First like first comment. Thanks for the videos.

[@MechanicMindset]

Thanks for watching!

[@gmak1n785]

Have you ever tried the APT-100? Looks a decent kit, I want to buy a pressure sensor but cant justify the price of the WPS at the minute

[@MechanicMindset]

I’ve not but I’ve heard good things. Just checked, they have also definitely jumped up in price. They were so cheap when they came out. I can’t see one under £200 gbp

[@gmak1n785]

@@MechanicMindset yeah I have noticed that too, I have also been looking to get a pressure pulse sensor can you recommend one? Is the autoditex one any good?

[@MechanicMindset]

@@gmak1n785 I think so. I’ve got a Rotkee one but not tried it yet. What country are you located?

[@gmak1n785]

@@MechanicMindset I am in England, where are you based mate?

[@MechanicMindset]

@@gmak1n785 Yeah same, Warwick. I am looking to get some Rotkee products in the UK. Will try and have a look at it and see what it’s like, from what I’ve seen they’re good

[@mikelewis8353]

Do you know if this is compatible with Autel Maxi Scope??

[@MechanicMindset]

Great question! Looking at the maxisxope, it also has a BNC connector for the input, so yes! 👍

[@DJ-tn7vj]

Yo Darren is it worth buying instead of making one like you did?

[@MechanicMindset]

Hey Daniel, I haven’t made one of these yet. I made a pulse sensor (for very low pressures). You can make these, but for a good waveform I believe you need a really good transducer. If your serious about using it for diag, I’d buy one. There are some videos about of people making these too though 👍. You can get this sensor without the kit and just use the adapters from a standard compression kit; it’s more affordable that way. But this kit is great for the price.

[@DJ-tn7vj]

@@MechanicMindset will do. Will look them up. Thanks

[@teemusummanen7961]

I guess this system measures pressure in cylinder when there is not load / spark?

[@MechanicMindset]

That’s right

[@dnulsrot]

I can't change the degree from 360 to 720. Does not high light the box were the numbers are in. Version 6.14.36.5676

[@MechanicMindset]

Interesting, I have not come across this before. Double clicked on the degree box right?

[@dnulsrot]

@@MechanicMindset Double click made it, thanks.

[@Byzmax]

Do you have a link to a supplier in the UK?

[@MechanicMindset]

Search up Ryan Colley - Elite Diagnostic Solutions

[@lloydpalmer5735]

hi darren i really need your help with my car im having some electronic issues

[@MechanicMindset]

Hi, what issues are you experiencing?

[@lloydpalmer5735]

@@MechanicMindset how can i contact you ..to explain ?

[@lloydpalmer5735]

@@MechanicMindset communication problem with mu bmw e912010 ..i replaced the timing chain , the clutch & flywheel ..fitted the engine and tranmission back into the car, plugged up all the wiring and crank it up ..nothing it wont fire ..just a bunch of codes one of them is the 4b90 it has been sat for weeks while i took the time to replace all the part

[@MechanicMindset]

@@lloydpalmer5735 If you can read the codes or communicate with the module then the network is ok. If any modules are ‘offline’, start by checking their power and grounds. 4B90 is a rail pressure fault so nothing to do with communication. Sometimes it takes a while to get the fuel back up to the rail. Have you definitely fitted the crank pick up ring? It sounds like you would be best getting someone to look at it. Sorry, there’s not much I can do over email etc

[@aslamali2763]

Ok

[@lexusry]

THAT IS TOOOOO MUCH WORK TO SEE RESULT. IT LIKE GOING BACK TO SCHOOL AND DO MORE HOME WORK. I HOPE THEY HAVE AN EASIER ONE LIKE PLUG AND PLAY

[@clutch5sp989]

Can ya measure your fart pressure(s)?

[@MechanicMindset]

Do we have a willing volunteer to give it a go? 😆

[@ahal5781]

Transducers are nasty and take so much time . old school pressure gauges are more accurate and fast and Lees headache

[@MechanicMindset]

If you just want to check compression peak pressure, I agree. This test checks so much more though; compression, valve timing, exhaust blockage, intake restriction etc 👍 If you have the scope ready, it should take the same time to set up 👌