Do I NEED A Lab Scope In My Shop?!

It's a hot topic, I know. Almost as debatable as "am I a technician or a mechanic?" In my opinion the lab scope is very necessary and can save you loads of time diagnosing a problem as I demonstrate in this video checking cam to crank correlation in this video. The only other way that can be done is by removing the timing covers. Let me know what you think! -Enjoy!
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Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. South Main Auto Repair assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. South Main Auto Repair recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not South Main Auto Repair

[@jW-xz7sr]

I’m not a auto tech. I work around heavy industrial applications. I use a old fluke 123/003. For me it’s a great tool because I can see more and replace very expensive parts with almost 100% accuracy and confidence . Owning a scope forced me to learn and understand most everything at a much higher level. I plan to buy a Pico and learn even more. No,I won’t make a red cent using it, but that’s ok. I love to learn and it make me feel just plain good. When co worker give me a hard time about all the money I spend on tools I tell them it’s better then a crack habit. This is what floats my boat and back off. They back off really fast when they realize they don’t know jack and I might be a good guy to know if they ever need technical advise. Yes a good tech should own or plan to own a scope and get good with it. Electronics are only gonna get faster and more complex.

[@markm0000]

It’s been 4 years you’re probably already owning a diag service business after buying a Pico lol. Very few mechanics even want to use the one in the shop, almost none can master it to solve problems.

[@FinalStopMobileAutoTech]

Scanner Danner talks about a jeep Cherokee 6cyl engine, that has spun the flywheel. In my opinion, aside from removing the transmission, there was no other way to identify the problem. I personally diagnose vehicles with a scope. I have just had a volvo with a jumped timing belt i discovered the problem with my scope in less then five minutes. Because of guys like you i have learned and gotten to where i am today in my passion of automotive diagnostics. I can feed my family comfortably because of you. Thank you for everything. KEEP THE VIDEOS COMING!!!

[@stuzman52]

It would be a good idea Eric to show some stuff about the Pico such as hookup, some settings, etc. to your audience as a lot of people are new to them and would want to learn more. And of course they would be more comfortable with their purchase of a new scope. And in this modern world of today, yes, a scope is a requirement. I would say go for the educational videos!

[@SouthMainAuto]

I am starting to see that... it has my wheel s turning in my head now :)

[@stuzman52]

It's like that movie that Kevin Costner played in called 'Field of Dreams', where a message was, "Build it and he will come." In this case, "build it and THEY will come." :))

[@Sandbag1300]

Eric, be careful here. The PicoScope Channel videos are really dry and boring. That channel has only 2.9K subscribers after several years. Stay with what you are doing and call attention to the current SMA Playlist of videos that have a Pico or other scope in them. These videos have much higher views than any PicoScope Channel dedicated video.

[@autotech1467]

It would be a huge deal for you to guide us through start to finish (what/when to look up wiring diagram, hook scope up, adjust it) in a real world setting.

[@throttletherapy9998]

I will be buying a pico scope this year and the learning curve begins , but if you could do some more detailed videos that would be great. I'm currently subscribed to scannerdanner website and that has been a tremendous help. By the way I'm doing a timing chain and actuator on a 2010 equinox 3.0 p0017 103, 000 on the clock . Love your channel, thanks

[@cobraninetysix3883]

Outstanding! A series as an introduction to scopes and basic hookups and how to use would be great!

[@nv1493]

Your videos have helped me tremendously. My retirement budget didn't allow me to go with Pico, but I'm very happy with the Hantek 1008c scope, cc-65 and cc-650 clamps. I know they are not as refined as the Pico, but they have helped me diagnose a lazy fuel injector and verify a bad crank sensor. I also sprung for an Autel MD808Pro and GTC 505 ignition analyzer along with assorted backprobes, leads, etc. But regardless of the diy equipment level, your sharing of knowledge has led me to learning about diagnosis rather than loading up the parts cannon. Thanks!

[@omahacellularsolutio]

Would definitely love some instructional videos on using a scope.

[@sympoz]

Watch some eevblog instructional videos.

[@BoltThrower321]

Become a master tech

[@dtnel]

Check out scannerdanner. I've learned it myself mainly by trial & error watching scannerdanner, watching Keith Perkins, Bernie Thompson. Best way to learn is get one, get out and use it learning one thing at a time till you get it then move to the next

[@madmechanic7976]

Just start stqbbing shit you will figure it out.

[@bsscards3593]

I'm the only scope user in my dealership. Uscope, pico. You inspired me and it has helped. Everyone just thinks I'm trying to be better than shop foreman, but really it helps you learn more and think about how systems work. All Honda/Acura teach is how to do continuity tests on comm lines, so that's how my foreman does it, "it's the only way." More scope vids!

[@junkyota]

Most people in shops dont care and arent willing to learn how to troubleshoot things properly. I work with several people like that now, that actively fight me when i try to teach them, yet they are always surprised when they throw parts at things and it still doesnt work. They make fun of me when i pull my scope out and tell me its a waste of time, but hey, have fun with that comeback.

[@jasonc.4683]

People like that are honestly jealous of u and pure haters. Keep doing what u doing my friend. That's what separates the men from the boys and technicians from parts changers. I go through the same stuff my friend. God bless

[@Thunderroad8517]

Jason Chavez yes many of us go through it. I want to learn more about this stuff but my service writer thinks she’s a mechanic and thinks we can diagnose anything in .5. We are not trusted or respected.

[@toddthompson1970]

efb l

[@toddthompson1970]

That was a accident now that I'm texting let me say I like the channel an really like the Pico videos thanks 4 posting

[@abdouliejallow7642]

hide your knowledge dont teach them am facing desame problem both my teachers and fellow classmates.

[@kennyb1155]

The only tool a GM shop needs is a calculator, for totalling the bill 😉

[@wyattoneable]

You had me at "PICO". You, Keith, Paul and Ivan made a believer out of me a year ago. But I love the continuing videos on the use of a scope. Great explanation and you know me, I'm a sponge for any knowledge towards mastering diagnostics.

[@rayolson9620]

Decided I needed a scope within the first month of watching your channel. Fantastic tools!

[@bradcullen8171]

Very well explained, got a PICO, in beginner stage, very beginner, but understand the need for it especially this day and time, and having fun trying to learn, and enjoy your videos on the scope usage

[@scottpearsontoolsmore185]

When I was in vocational school we used the big Sun Tech I think was the name I know it was a Sun. I graduated and went to work on simi trucks and trailers no computer back then. I have through the years have had to use a computer. I went to work at a different shop and the computer systems were just starting to show up. I had to learn pretty much all the makes of engines and different software. So yes would be my answer makes life easier. Keep up the great work brother see you in the next video thanks

[@klwthe3rd]

Honestly i never knew about Pico scopes until i started watching your channel. They seem like an extremely valuable tool to have in your shop. Customers dont want a technician to tear apart their car if they dont need to or are unsure of the problem. So with that being said, they seem to be well worth the money since it will be used many many times going forward.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Did one video with the Pico and plan to do more. I am only doing the basics just because, for now that is all I know. Would love to see you do more of the set ups. For automotive it seems to me the 4425 is the way to go!

[@KillJD]

Pico for life. Got one in August and loving it. I'm still a noob but learning each day.

[@franciscoromero3011]

One of the things I really love about your videos, is how you use your computers to find and fix the problems. Where in some places the only computer they use is the OBII scanner.

[@richard1835]

Great work Eric I appreciate your hard work in making us better Mechanics. Thank You

[@StevesAutoNtrucks]

yes please more on using this tool i need to learn more uses for this tool very interesting thanks

[@snw56]

It's a must! I plan to purchase a Pico scope in the near future.

[@davidcomenzind8368]

WOW I'm impressed . I was a truck mech. back in the day and this new stuff blows my mind. I learn all kinds of stuff from your videos!

[@sympoz]

I appreciate your videos eric, your attitude is what gets work done and is what people here envy and it's what makes you appear smarter than average. Taking your time and not assuming you have the answer is actually what makes you stand out as a good mechanic.

[@EvanT1995]

Eric you’re one of the few people on this Earth I’d love to sit down with and just absorb all of your automotive knowledge.

[@TheWallyjp]

I would love to see more videos on how to use a scope. I have thought about buying one, but I really do not know how to use one to its full potential. I learned about it quickly in school, but that is it.

[@richardostrowski6420]

Good video Eric O. I have been using a scope in one iteration or another for the past 40 years. A scope simply enables you to find your problem without having to dissect your vehicle, as you alluded to. Every year, new vehicles will be getting harder and harder to work on. This is why you need to update your diagnostic equipment and more importantly, update your knowledge through training. I applaud your efforts and the efforts of the other techs posting these videos on youtube. Keep up the great work...

[@SouthMainAuto]

Thanks Richard!

[@peterreed175]

good vid eric! i’m not a mechanic. but i’m a big time diyer at home mechanic. I’ve learned so much from you. And now i’m tempted to buy a scope. I really like figuring out the real reason/ root cause of things. this video proves the need for it.

[@AP9311]

Ooh yes!! Every mechanic should have one to help brush up their skills on diagnosing issues, just like ScannerDanner! Helps me to understand more and know how to do it. Thanks Eric O! Love the vid!!

[@rtchrg440]

Absolutely! Just got a Pico in our shop.

[@garylollman5339]

I don't own a shop but I can totally see that too diagnose a vehicle problems. Great job and information you have promoted for having a scope.

[@kingkong8974]

Thank God I was trained on the modus back in school. These videos on KZbin has refreshed my mind. Wish I could buy a scope for under 300 that I could use professionally

[@richardmikolajczakjr5016]

That's is by far the best diagnosis I've seen you do here's your problem lady 👍

[@rogerdaly1087]

First off, just wanted to say thanks for the great vids !!! After seeing you use the Mini Ductor 11, I am nowthe proud owner of the Mini Ductor Venom. What a great tool to have and use. Keep sharing all your greatknowledge with the rest of us in the " Great White North "

[@kevinadomitis4833]

More great content! Love learning about all this even though I will never use it personally.

[@lorrinbarth1969]

If a prospective employer wanted to know if I was a mechanic or technician I'd ask, "Which pays better?".

[@REPOOCNITSUJ]

Great video!! I would love to see more videos like this on basic scope use. I bought a Modis Edge about 6 months ago and sadly..... it stays in its case most of the time.... I just don't know how to use it yet. I've tried some basic readings on my own truck, but I don't understand it well enough to diagnose with it yet. PLEASE MORE VIDEOS LIKE THIS!!!!!! thanks a million-

[@MrAnthonyfym]

Mechanix 1033 guided component tests learn

[@B.E.Long.63]

Good evening funny seeing you here this time of night..hehehe... Peace, God Bless America....

[@jessupgraham]

Awesome video, I have been a mechanic for a heavy equipment dealer for over 15 years and the emissions have brought a need for a scope in my opinion. So any videos you can do with a scope is great. I have the Vantage pro for a starter scope in hopes to learn how to read sensors, CAN etc

[@NRP1991]

Great video. I honestly think lacking knowledge myself. Working in a small engine shop LOTS of engines oems are going efi. And this honestly would come in real handy. Keep these videos coming. I just learned a TON. Thanks Eric !!

[@skonyc3164]

Yes please more pico..these are my favorite types of videos 👍😎

[@brianraglandsr.2349]

I too believe a scope is a must have in today's shop's. I know a couple tech's that dont use them and get the job done, but i believe it would make their jobs much easier + funner if they took the time to learn them. I myself use my Verus, but soon will be getting a Pico due to it's utility's like the degree measurements that you used without all the math. Plus the fact is when you go on IATN a lot of waveform's are saved from Pico which makes it easier to match up. Thanks for the video. And also i would love to see more with scope usage. Have a blessed day

[@brentowen9480]

I'm 36, in the bizz for 15 yrs...started getting interested in lab scope stuff when fellow old guy genius showed me what a Verus could do...used Verus and Snap On stuff for years...hated the only zoom out feature...just got a pico and have been totally falling behind on work out the door because I'm taking various known goods etc for experience...I own and run my own shop so that's my decision. Anyway, really enjoying the Pico and the excitement. Example: 1986 XR200: owner rebuilt topend started and ran 2 blocks (they say). I get the bike, check spark-yup good, check valve timing-easy to do (5 mins-maybe less), timing okay lash tight-set lash-no start still-When kicking over every so often it briefly fires-like 1 bang. Connect pressure transducer to cyl and secondary pickup on well plug wire-kick over and find random spark events. Remove CDI cover-find pickup not keyed onto camshaft-bolt missing, but would still spin, generating a spark. Then I look up a OEM parts diag and see that there should be a bolt on the end of cam to hold pickup in place. Keyed the pickup and replaced the bolt and fired up first kick. Finding spark timing on this and many motorcycles is hard, using a scope is the only way minus farting around all day taking things apart and hoping. This was the first time I used the Pico (luckily got it the day before).

[@Bowtie41]

I could absolutely watch more hands on scope setup and usage,you rock!

[@normangallant9879]

Good call and saving the customer money.

[@dakotadomination1065]

Great video. I like the idea about learning how to hook the scopes up, and how to use them. That's why I haven't bought one yet. Just the lack of knowledge on how they work.

[@Thefreemans-music]

The SUN machine!!! Was trained on that thing. The machine that goes "BING". Parked it out the front and fired it up. Got a ton of customers that way.

[@pauldavis5075]

We had a low paid school worker with a 70's impala back in the day. High miles, noisy, and barely ran. School vocational shop took it on. The timing chain was so loose it ate right though the timing cover. Thanks for the videos.

[@neilgott1168]

Good video Eric. Definitely a great idea to have more scope videos from basics of setting up and how to get the most information from what you see. I think personally I would gain a lot from those sort of videos as I am trying to get into more scope use.

[@dc5723]

Scopes are important! A good diagnostic scan tool and scope is an essential part of the shop plus your brains! We have a small shop so we just have 1 scope and 2 diagnostic scan tools.

[@noelhernandez5829]

Hello Eric, I'm totally inclined to purchasing a lab scope after seeing videos like yours and other youtubers like Paul Danner, Ivan, Keith who also use labscopes. With todays sofisticated auto systems I've learned its a must have tool. Thanks for the videos!

[@bighurk30able]

Nice work Buddy you are a very smart man

[@robinsonsmotorcycleandauto3929]

In my opinion a scope is a must have tool if you wanna save time and be 100 percent correct. Great video Eric

[@kellyconstenius676]

As a home bolt breaker. I watched a video of tech chasing a CAN signal problem. He hooked his scope into the OBD2 test port. You could see the problem on the scope. Instead of being mirror image of each other. You could see the interference in the signal. He found a CAN junction connector. And just unplugged connections until he saw the signal go normal. WALA it was some controller in the over head console. Boom that made me want one. I found out you can get a Hantek 1008C on Amazon for about a hundred bucks. Thats shade tree tool money right there. Came in the mail today. Have zero idea how to use it. But cant wait to start to learn on it.

[@exmotorsports]

SOLD..! Personally looking back, It's hard to imagine doing the proper diagnostic without a scope..Bought my first one about 2 years ago and I ask myself, How did I ever do without it.?! It's a must have tool. Because of that, That's how I found guy's like YOU, Keith..Danner..Ivan and many more. It's all in the interest of what a scope can discover. Eric.. I would love to see a library of scope usage from you, I think it would be powerful info for us all. (: As always, Thank You and Cheers too.

[@BTURBOCOUPE]

Hey Eric, great videos as always. Love to see some videos on basic use with the scope. Thinking about getting one but love to see more videos on it.

[@memopat1]

Scope is a real task to use as it takes thinking Most people are pattern techs car does this do that Scope is god send if you force your self to understand it You sir (eric O) are a black belt 5th degree in matters of using a scope 🙏

[@sympoz]

So if eric is a 5th degree black belt in using a scope what does that make people like eevblog, thesignalpath and mrcarlsonslab? LOL

[@Micko350]

What does that make Keith then?! 🤣

[@chriscorts3337]

@@sympoz Grand Masters. Mr. Carlson rocks though. Electronics guru and auto technician in one. He figured out why his car would not pass tailpipe emissions and made a module to remedy a GM factory fault.

[@samcooke2742]

Why do I have to think so much to get my truck running? In 1977 I replaced the timing chain on my 292 Ford V-8 in the parking lot of an Exxon gas station in Durham, NC. The guy had loads of Exxon awards on the walls for his superior service. I wanted to borrow a timing light to set my distributor. The owner told me that they didn't have one - they just turned the distributor until the engine ran good. My mind is stuck there - turn it until it runs good. Oscilloscopes just freeze my brain.

[@Janisg616]

Picoscope "automotive" scopes starting at 900$ are expensive, especially for DIY enthusiasts. I have picoscope 2204a, 2 channel 10MHz scope, that costs about 130$. For me the biggest advantage compared to any other USB scope is the software, from picoscope you get the same software and features for 10 000$ scope that you get for this 130$ scope, free updates for lifetime. 2204a supports only picoscope regular software. For those new to scopes be careful not to overload and kill the scope on ignition components. Also any bench scope can be used for automotive diagnostics. In picoautomotive website you can get ideas for different sensors, and pressure transducers(and testing procedures), that you can build you self for small fraction of the price, and they will work just as good. And to build them is not much more complicated than fixing cars. If I would diagnose cars for living, I would go for 4 channel "automotive picoscope" and original accessories. "picoscope automotive" software is the same regular software + you get access to dedicated picoscope automotive forums and known good or bad waveform database. Additional extras might pay off after properly diagnosing some cars that nobody else was able to fix.

[@themainguy5050]

When dealing with vehicles you can never ever have too many tools.😀

[@mikechiodetti4482]

I know I've seen this before, but its well worth seeing again. Shortly, after I get most of my projects done, I'll be back with the Pico on my test subject, AKA the 06 Nissan Frontier, 4.0 V6. Hopefully I'll learn how to print out the waveforms for reference later on. AND I hope last summer's timing chains, guides, tensioners, water pump, tons of O'Rings will still be good allowing me to "see" the timing marks alignment. Nice Job Mr. O. Totally Professional, and as an Instructor, Totally Understandable!

[@flatratemaster]

Great Video Eric!! There are 3 scopes at the shop, and will be 4 when i get my Pico😁

[@anthonybotonis4541]

If you dont have a pico then you have a scope.... the only real time scope available is the pico👌

[@phillipzan2005]

Oh lord I would love more scope videos. Especially on can bus systems, measurements and say overlays from known good waveforms

[@karltruththathurts9987]

I would appreciate another video on the scope, looks like a must have

[@allanandrowey5219]

Id love to see more scope stuff. I just purchased the u scope from aeswave. I love it. Great intro to scope use. A Pico is next. Money is our big hang up. So much mark up on scopes and equipment here in New Zealand. We are members of AECS a nation wide company that supports a different scope brand.

[@LMAutoRepairs]

Great video... A scope can indeed help you to diagnose/pin point where the fault actually is... at the component or somewhere else... On your example, it is obviously even more crucial... would be nearly impossible (Without removing head cover etc..), to see the timing issue without a scope... For me, the pico PC based is not practical, and although I have a 2 channel handheld scope, which I work with on some of my videos, I am know thinking about get the scope module for my Maxisys, which is a 4 channel... as it looks quite practical and more complete as well.. Thank you for sharing!

[@adammeehan828]

Gonna git the maxiscope for my autel ty so much for getting me on the autel trip. Bought a ms906bt with bore scope and now gonna get the scope as well this thing has paid for itself 10 times over from day 1 and I love it an absolute blast and got me hooked on identafix had that for a few months and don't know how I lived withoot them for so long. I have you in my ear all day long just listening to the channel while busting these knucks sir 🙂 I tip my hat 🤠 like so and say good day!

[@mbazzy123]

I Purchased the Maxisys Ultra this past year, it has the integrated scope in the VCM seems very robust especially for me being a advanced DIY'r. Yes please keep doing more scope vids they great learning tools.

[@Thunderroad8517]

Hey Mr O! Well it sounds like the people are asking for more videos like this and I agree. I really appreciate your work and sharing with us. You are definitely a hands on teacher and a damn good tech! You cannot get what you offer from a book. Keep em coming! Thanks Mr O! Will the engine have to be pulled to change the chains and parts???

[@tracydiller4492]

Bottom line you need a scope no question, especially if your working on vehicles for a living. For the DIY it's the question am I going to use it more than once or twice a year or would it be cheaper to take it to a shop that uses a scope just about everyday. And the cost for the DIY guy's and gals to purchase a scope of course that's up to the individual, but yes in my opinion if your a professional mechanic and that's your job yes you need a scope.

[@mikeyhayles5544]

I have thought about getting a scope but held back because lack of knowledge in using one correctly. I've watched quite a few of your video now and you're methods and teaching are excellent. Definitely thinking more about getting one now. Cyber apple coming your way.

[@mikeberry304]

Takes me back to 1979 Eric , across the pond her in the UK with the old big yellow Krypton tuning machine , showing wave forms on plugs etc , time to spend some money, you've gotta be in it to win it as they say , great video Eric , take care

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

I think it is a smart approach. Being a parts cannon works short term. Really fixing problems is the correct approach long-term.

[@ryleysmith6940]

Yeah, a scope is a must have. That being said, I have not found many chances to break it out. I am liking the snap on scope, it's not the best but great for a beginner. Component info is gold. Great video, If things permitted it would be great to have more videos on the scope.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Glad to hear you are using it though. You are correct the component test meter is a great source of info!

[@AndyMechanic]

Great video Eric O - also fantastic to see you using the screen capture software for the scope - very professional :-) I agree, having a scope in a workshop these days is fundamental to successful & conclusive diagnostics on modern EFI vehicles. Saying this, PicoScope UK have, only yesterday, confirmed sponsorship of both my KZbin channel by providing an Automotive scope kit and also a second kit for me to loan to our Yamaha dealers here in NZ to give them the opportunity to see just how useful these laptop based scopes are. Scopes are going to become more & more of a requirement on modern vehicles as the electronic systems become more complex & overlayed. Anyway, keep up the great work, hope your hand fixes up just fine - mind you, chicks dig scars! Lol Take it easy Eric & hi to the family. Cheers Andy Mechanic

[@HardKnocksForge]

Yes basic, how to, and the what for on pico scopes would be an awesome video series.

[@mikea4341]

Outstanding video! Makes a good point for a pico.

[@dholtorf7330]

Great vid as usual man! More Pico videos would be awesome!

[@rafaelmeneses5066]

Excellent info. Showing the basics of scope usage would be great. Common signals such as ignition crank maf or other common sensors that may narrow a problem to the real issue. Thanks

[@Catayst-123]

Excellent information Thank You.Takecare You are Great Technician

[@Kc8qdq]

Keep up the videos on the scopes. Love it to

[@melsmobileservices4223]

Picoscope & forget the rest! As always, Eric great video & instruction about why labscopes are needed with modern vehicle repair. While I don’t currently own a picoscope due to the cost but I working on it for 2018. I have changed my business model because of you, scanner danner, pine hollow auto diagnostics, & other channels!

[@schwinn434]

I really appreciate this video - i.e. not only an important discussion - but more impressively, Eric wasn’t, obviously, feeling well but forged ahead, nevertheless, to make a very interesting video. Absolutely, great work on Eric’s part!

[@jhuntosgarage]

Glad I didn't get the v6 in my wife's '14 Equinox, got the 2.4, no issues; YET! Good job Mr. O. Give it the full beans!

[@picoboo5048]

J. Hunto's Garage Don't want to be the bearer of bad news but those have timing chain issues as well😕

[@thecardoctorautorepair2014]

When hiring a tech at my shop, the first thing I ask is what type or brand of lab scope they are using. 9 out of 10 times they look at me like I have 3 eyes. I ask this question because if they haven't used one then they aren't a true diagnostic tech. It is 100% impossible to perform a 100% perfect diagnosis, along with repair verification, without a scope when dealing with any kind of engine/transmission management sensor. With a lab scope, I can go home at night knowing that the issue is definitely repaired and has zero chance of a comeback due to my diagnosis. Rather than thinking to myself, "Oh, I hope that car doesn't come back with the same code".

[@Sebastianx115]

Dam good luck finding techs like that then

[@MicheluceRizzuto]

@@Sebastianx115 you ain’t lyin’. Still can’t find one. I’m hanging it up in a year and a half when my shop lease is up for renewal. I either close it down or sell it. After 38 years I’m done.

[@Sebastianx115]

@@MicheluceRizzuto wow i just started mine 3-4 years ago money is good but can be stressful

[@MicheluceRizzuto]

@@Sebastianx115 I don't do too bad. It's a trade off though. Sometimes I wish I still worked on the line and able to go home at 5 without the stress factor. I'm at the point where I take in what I want and I don't break my balls anymore for the most part. I'm 57 y/o and I've beaten myself up over the years to where my joints hurt and my eyes and ears suffer a bit from it. I don't know how long you've been at it, but it will take it's toll on your body eventually. I started doing auto upholstery a couple years ago and that business is picking up fairly well, so I have something to fall back on and pay the bills and mortgage once I exit this career for good. I'd like to say I have the option to retire if I wanted to, but when I was younger I blew the hell out of some money and just started saving money for real about ten years ago when I woke up and realized I wasn't going to be young forever and retirement age was just around the corner. Bam! There it is!

[@Sebastianx115]

@@MicheluceRizzuto Yeah I've been working on cars for ten years and in business for about 4 and at the moment have a solid team, 2 other employees who are good at working on cars i try not letting us work to hard

[@joeschebler6236]

I too would love to see some more basic scope usage videos...Thanks, kinda shopping around

[@Jpilgrim30]

Absolutely a necessity for driveability. I own four scopes myself so I don’t always have to lug out the laptop and pico scope. I have a pico 4425, otc 3840f, a uscope, and a cheap hantek scope. The uscope is a great little time saving scope for doing quick checks where you only need one channel.

[@davidbrown1037]

Eric. I bought a Solus Pro and had it 2 weeks when I saw the need for a Lab Scope. I traded up to a Modis Ultra and find that I use the Scope & Multi Meter Functions as much and even more than the scanner functions. I am an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer and I wish that I had this tool many years ago. It would have been extremely valuable in troubleshooting intermittent "glitches" in landing gear circuits that can be too fast to catch with a meter or test light. Once you have a tool like that, you find ways to use it and wonder how you did without it before. Until you actually use one, you cannot appreciate what they CAN do.

[@spelunkerd]

I wish the databank at Pico had more waveforms, it's a free bank and could be very useful if techs would take the time to share details with others. They do have a few thousand waveforms and hopefully that will grow over the coming years. IATN works great for the pros but we amateurs don't have the financial resources to pay into something like that every month.

[@JOHNPHUFNAGEL]

IATN is only $20 a month that's really cheap for all the info it has available. Now Mitchel on demand or all data is outrageous

[@Mikeywil0003]

I could say the same thing about service info, and scan tools. Gotta pay the big bucks for good service info, which is not always an option for the amateur. I think were are really going to be screwed on some of these cars decades down the road, like 90's Chryslers. What are we going to do in 2036 when a DRB3 is hard to come by, and certain things can only be done with a DRB3?

[@brianwolf692009]

My problem is finances. Scopes are definitely a must have for person to get an idea where to start looking. Keep up the vids.

[@MrRandom750]

Thats it... time to get a pieco. The old timers at my shop say no need for a scope and dont waste your money. Its been a goal to be on my own someday and i see it as i need to learn and have one to get to that goal.

[@justinballard4134]

Said old timers probably don't know what CAN stands for.

[@echowhiskey2411]

Sad these old timers have no idea what a no fault tolerant network is, or terminating resistance for that matter.

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

Yeah but you hand em a row of carbs and they can have them synced up like no other.

[@upallnight888]

Yes they do, they know that Beer comes in a CAN.

[@Micko350]

Justin Ballard a CAN holds their beans!

[@SmittySmithsonite]

I'd definitely like to see your scope vids, no matter how basic you think they might be. I have zero scope time! I definitely see the value in them - so long as you interpret the data correctly (and have it hooked up correctly), they will diagnose an issue 100% every time. The amount of info you can get from just a spark waveform just blows my mind. I've learned alot from Paul, Ivan, and you, though. I definitely need one ... but my warped mind is telling me I need to buy a paramotor, first. Priorities, ya know ... I must FLY!! 😃

[@SouthMainAuto]

Oh man you are nuts!

[@SmittySmithsonite]

HAHAHAHA! My buddies, and my family, are all saying the same thing ... :D

[@sebastianmalmstrom3547]

Agreed

[@marty0715yt]

Excellent!!!! I'm so old my first scope had a green crt and you had to turn the lights off in the room to see it!!!. No storage!

[@hightttech]

Eric, as you said, the old SUN "Engine Performance Analyzers" were awesome. I was a young mechanic, and the old geezers hated that i could make that SUN sing & dance. Scopes are absolutely more necessary than ever, unless you just sell parts with no accountability to customer. Cheers. (edit typo)

[@thebandmcomputer]

Alt+Tab on your keyboard to quickly switch between screens Eric. Great video...thanks.

[@cobraninetysix3883]

After reading some of the comments...., maybe a series for the advanced DIY people that want to take it to the next level!

[@sweatlodgegarage8195]

i don’t know what i’d do without my scope, saves so much time determining issues by quickly testing components with minimal disassembly, most definitely a worthy investment!

[@mbs5328]

Yes. Videos on 'Basic Hookup and Usage of a Lab Scope' would be very helpful.

[@johngibson3594]

I say yes learn how to use one they are a very useful tool. Once you get good at using them you can save some time on nailing down electrical issues. Thanks love your vids

[@paulabate3995]

Eric these diagnostic videos are a good idea. So many times i heard mechanics say, like yourself they have 3 or 4 scan tools. I guess its time for a scope, if you have any money left after buying all those scan tools.

[@deepsquat600]

Yes Eric I am so old that we had a Sun scope in voctech school.

[@jb711956]

i watch your channel constantly and am looking for a scope i can afford. can't wait to get one. i have the pc based autoengenuity but i really need something more adverse perhaps a pico, maybe a vantage pro, i mainly work on the older stuff right now that other shops turn down or people just can't afford to take them in to the more expensive shops. thanks for the videos and great help

[@stevenrobertson3475]

I have bought a new snap on scanner with scope and I'm getting the hang of using it. But there is just so many things in still trying to figure out what I'm looking at. If you where able to do more videos on scopes that would be awesome. I love watch you and your family. And look forward to all the new videos since I've watched them all.