OBD-I Scan Tool Review

[@joeyrodmanjr9823]

Excellent video sir! You answered all my questions and the questions I didn’t even have yet lol. Hopefully I get my 88 S10 Blazer dialed in , “if possible “. Or atleast make it easier to diagnose. Thank you again

[@redcarguy]

Oh, btw: The high idling when the tool is connected is normal. Its called "Diagnostic Mode" in ALDL. On later ECMs like the 8746 or the 7730, there is a "Road Test Mode". The Tech 1 from GM let you choose that if available. In that mode you can test drive the car without higher RPM or ignition timing. That old "diagnostic mode" is not ready for that. Its only to use without driving. If you like, feel free to contact me. I have the complete manual to the Tech 1 and there it is declared how to use that "Diagnostic Mode".

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Thank you for the info. I did find an explanation in the service manual that indicated that some scan tools would cause the high idle. I knew that various ECMs had different service modes, but I was surprised that this mode would be enabled without a warning or a switch. It's been many years since I actually used an official Tech 1 and I have forgotten some of the functions. For now, I think I am ok, because I understand what I have. I may also investigate the Moates.net tools. I understood that they have the cable with the switchable 10k resistor to assist in signalling modes.

[@mikebruegger8654]

Great to see you review this tool! I have the same one.

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Does the tool work well for you?

[@jsting23]

Never mind, found it, thank you for review this tool

[@bitsofwisdom460]

You're welcome.

[@RogerSeeley]

Actron finally got them back in stock, I got mine a couple of days ago. tried connecting to my 86 trans am 305 tpi. kept getting device connect errors. called actron tech support and they said it will not work with the tpi cars now. I guess it works with the throttle body engines but not the tuned port any longer. they have updated the software in them .

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Ohhh, I'm sorry to hear that. That's not good. I can't understand why they would do that, but I believe you. I'll try need to put out a warning or something. If I take down the video, all the comments will disappear, too. Next option for you may be the laptop / USB cable and WINALDL or TunerProRT. I have several videos on those and they worked well for my '85.

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Since they claim the software is updated, could you please tell me the version on your tool? It is listed under System Set-up / Tool Information. I just checked Actron site and they don't list a newer software than what I have on my older tool. I have a 0B0B. The site lists latest as 0B0B or FED0. That hasn't changed since I bought mine. It could be that it varies based on ECM. The 85 and 86 have different ECMs, but I wouldn't have thought they would not support the newer one.

[@RogerSeeley]

It had the 0B0B software.@@bitsofwisdom460

[@MAJorgy70]

I have the same Scan Tool I use on my '88 Formula 350. Looks like the PIDs are a little different between the years. For instance, mine has a TARGET RPM - PID. On mine, the RPMs doesn't change because the Scan Tool is reading the ECM (which would be annoying) . My Scan Tool does loose communication sporadically (which is annoying). I also set the TPS volt reading using the Scan Tool as well. I had issues as well with high idle rpms. The old throttle body throttle plate shaft was loose and seemed worn out and then I broke the return spring. So a guy did the right thing and bought a BBK 52mm throttle body and cured the high rpms. Good luck! 👍🏼

[@bitsofwisdom460]

I am not surprised the PIDs are different, I expected that was why the instruction manual wasn't specific. Every year, the development team made adjustments as they learned. The only thing that I wish my '85 had was some spark timing information. I think that since the '85 has a separate EST module, the ECM may not have a good way to translate it to the tool. My TPS was right on with the scan tool and it matched a DVM measurement exactly.

[@michaelgarcia22]

That BBK throttle body uses a sealed bearing on the shaft instead of a bushing like the original. Gave me high idle problems almost immediately. Remanufactured original was the way to go.

[@RevolutionMuscle]

I really enjoy your videos, keep'em coming!

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Thanks, will do!

[@billwhite5853]

One other tool you could consider would be a old snap on brick. You can usually get one for around the same price as the Actron.

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Yes, that would be another good solution. I had the ability to borrow one of those for OBD1 cars some years ago and it was very good.

[@redcarguy]

Hi! I just have seen your video. I have a '85 Trans Am and a '91 Trans Am. So i ordered one. Did you had to activate the OBD 1 function or did it work out of the box?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

It worked right out of the box. Being OBD1 GM, you just need to use the 12v power cable (included) along with the OBD1 GM cable and select your car / year in the menus. They offer software updates, but mine came with the latest already loaded.

[@redcarguy]

@@bitsofwisdom460 thanks a lot! Very sympatic video btw. You have a new follower!

[@jsting23]

Can you post the link to get that scanner, please

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Posted

[@rickeckerson4316]

The cp9690 I got won't connect to 93 camaro, how do I troubleshoot why its not connecting?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

There are only a few things that I know. First, be sure you have a solid 12V connection to the tool. GM OBD1 won't work without it. The tool will run on battery, but not communicate. I would check to see if the car will at least flash a code "12" with the engine off. That usually is a paper clip jumper between pins A and B on most cars. 12 is a code with a stopped engine for no engine speed. If not, there may be an issue with the ECM. Then, I have had trouble with cars that have had a custom PROM, either a changed one or a reprogrammed production one. Sometimes the reprogrammed ones upset the diagnostics. Finally, there is an Actron website with the latest software posted for the tool. If you don't have the latest, you could try updating, though I would think that for a '93 it wouldn't need an update. Beyond that, I would check with their tech support.

[@rickeckerson4316]

Ok that's the issue, no 12v cord only batteries. Paper clip jumper flashed code 12. Action is out of business, believe Bosch took over? Wonder how to get 12v power cord?

[@rickeckerson4316]

Any idea where I can get 12v power cord for Actron 9690? I think Bosch took over Actron?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Yes, Bosch owns Actron and I understand they are no longer selling under that brand. Looking at Bosch site for the OBD1300, they list the cable part number as 7-0135. I found it on a couple of sites, here is an example: oemtechtools.com/products/replacement-cigarette-lighter-adapter-for-use-with-act7-0135 Apparently the Bosch OBD 1300 will be the replacement. Here is a video with a little more information on the issues. When I made that one, Actron was still selling, but it was hard to find. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6Hcg61qraiisNk

[@tubeguy009]

How many issues will this tool recognize? I have a 1989 Chevy Cavalier Z24 2.8L that is giving me an issue?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

On a GM OBD1 car, it should pick up all of the trouble codes that the particular model has in its ECM / PCM. It should provide the engine data stream for all of the parameters that the controller can provide. Depending on the individual engine controller, there can be some additional functions. The GM factory tool (Tech1) will usually provide some additional data and functions.

[@AdminYTSA]

I have a 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0 12valve. Will this obd1 tool work on a 12 pin socket?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

No, this one only has OBD1 cables for GM, Ford, Chrysler and Toyota. I'm sorry, but I don't know what you need for Mitsubishi.

[@dalemihocik4732]

This tool only reads ODB-1 data while the vehicle is running and is it bi- directional? Will it help you in a no start situation?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

The tool will read the data stream with the engine off and ignition on. You can then read any codes and the live sensor values. Then you can go to crank and attempt start. I haven't tried to read sensors during cranking. On my engine (1985 TPI), there is no control available from the tool. The tool does have capability for the GM "field service mode" that will command actuators and some other tests, but it depends on the specific ECM and model year and what the ECM will support. In my case with a no-start, I can read all the sensors to be sure they make sense. From there, it is back to basics. Do you have spark, fuel pressure, EGR valve not stuck open and so forth. The service manual trouble trees help a lot.

[@rossschultheis8098]

I can’t find this scanner anywhere or the Bosh one

[@bitsofwisdom460]

The Bosch technical folks told me it would be coming back in late summer. I don't know what the hold up is. You might want to take a look at my videos with a laptop and data cable. That takes a little more work to get it set up and working, but it is a useful alternative.

[@CarlWilliams-u3y]

Ebay has it.

[@rossschultheis8098]

@@CarlWilliams-u3y couldn’t find it on eBay

[@johnstewart8325]

Can you reset codes or do relearn procedures?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Some of those features depend on the model and year. On my '85, it won't reset codes because the ECM must be disconnected. I know it will on my OBD2 vehicles. Not sure about the relearns for the same reason.

[@timothydecelle3201]

Great video. One question…I purchased a used Bosch OBD I scan tool, model 1300. The GM adapter is difficult to insert into my port. I’m not sure if the teeth are misaligned? Have you ever come across or heard of something like this? I have yet to use the tool because I cannot insert it and I don’t want to force it and break something. Thank you.

[@bitsofwisdom460]

I haven't come across that issue. I suppose a pin could be bent. What car do you have? Just to be sure, the standard GM ALDL plug is 12 pins and the connector has a slot on the top and 2 slots, one on each side at the bottom (or sometimes the plug is inverted). The car side has a tab at the top and wings or tabs on the bottom on each side. It can take some wiggling to get it engaged, but shouldn't be too difficult. I have seen in my Camaro that it can be hard to get it lined up squarely because the plug is recessed behind the trim panel. The factory had to connect to it before they could ship the car, so the connector had to work at least once. Now, if you're working on a 1994 / 1995 GM, some of them are OBD1 cars with an OBD2 style connector. That is the OBD2 16 pin plug. They are certified to OBD1, but actually report OBD2 type codes.

[@timothydecelle3201]

I have a 93 Corvette. I’m gonna try it again.

[@bitsofwisdom460]

@@timothydecelle3201 Ok, the '93 should have the regular 12 pin connector. If you still have trouble, I would look at the end of the connector and see if the pins all look consistent- they should all have the same shape. Some car side connectors won't have all the pins in them, only the ones required for that model.

[@michaelgarcia22]

Moates.net has the aldu1 aldl1 combo that will let you scan with an android or windows device for a lot cheaper. After that you get the ostrich that will let you start tuning the car from your device

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Yes, I have been to the Moates site and will likely work on getting that capability. I think both tools are valuable. This Actron tool is rather compact, seems fairly rugged and it's easy to tuck it away in the car on a trip where I wouldn't necessarily throw in a laptop. Maybe I shouldn't worry about needing a scan tool when I make a road trip away from home, but it's good insurance just in case.

[@marksmithjr00]

Can you tell me the name of the cheapest OBD1 scanner? I have a 95 Park avenue and can't get a reading anywhere thanks

[@johnscreekmark]

My 88 S10 uses a paper clip and flashing “Service Engine Soon” light…😆😆

[@bitsofwisdom460]

Yes, nearly all the GM OBD1 systems use this method to dump codes. But if you don't have a code, the scan tool is worth it's weight in gold for troubleshooting.

[@johnscreekmark]

Google is good for that 👍

[@عليالحوت-ر5ه]

How much this computer and this computer its can inter and cheek the 1g-fe engine?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

I am not very familiar with that engine, but that code sounds like Toyota. The kit comes with OBD1 cables for Toyota round plug and rectangular plug. If the engine is newer, there is an OBD2 cable. Price was around $200 when I bought mine, might be higher now.

[@bradspitts3077]

Can this scan a 92 honda civic?????

[@bitsofwisdom460]

That one is not on the spec sheet. It doesn't have an OBD1 cable for a Honda.

[@marksmithjr00]

What's the name of the tool please?

[@bitsofwisdom460]

This is an Actron CP9690. There have been some availability issues, so see for explanation: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6Hcg61qraiisNk

[@budsodalsky]

Dan after watching, and seeing the price of those scanners, I highly recommend you try watching videos regarding "TunerPro" and a laptop. Its free or donation nice, and companies like moates can get you the odb1 cables, and accessories, and decoders, and with this - your laptop windows computer probably can provide a better tuning interface. I have to admit, I have not learned TunerPro much myself, but there are alot of people using it for years on ODB1 Here's an example: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZKTiXWbhcaqq8k&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

[@bitsofwisdom460]

I have been looking at several options. I've been to the Moates site and I'll likely purchase from them. I would like to get into the laptop based system so that I can go deeper into the ECM and get to more parameters. However, the scan tool is an easy compact portable tool that most mechanical types can use. I can throw it in the back of my car to have it handy and not worry about it as compared to my laptops.