There is now an OBD2 scanner in the auto toolbox for use while at the space. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003IOKPLO
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I use TORQUE on my Android phone and a $6 bluetooth OBD adapter I got from China…You can get them from NewEgg for $10, or several other places:
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I use TORQUE on my Android phone and a $6 bluetooth OBD adapter I got
from China…You can get them from NewEgg for $10, or several other
places:
That looks pretty cool, Paul. Think I will check out that out.
I have been using a dedicated Scangauge II for years:
Yes, it is $160, but it is a great auxiliary monitor for a variety of critical sensors and it conveniently mounts in the hollow recess of a double DIN radio console. (assuming the radio itself is single DIN) It is always on and I constantly check it for voltage output, water temp, etc. - it has saved me from a ruined engine or getting stranded by the side of the road more than once.
I am appalled at how dumbed down the monitoring instrumentation on most modern automobiles are compared to over 30 years ago. We used to have ammeters, voltmeters, oil pressure gauges, etc. instead of mostly idiot lights and I discovered last year that the temp gauge on my Nissan pickup basically lies. (or is misleading) The actual temp on the Scangauge would hit 215 - 230 F and the dash gauge would still show to be at mid-range.
The Scangauge was crucial to figuring out what was wrong as I could compare highway speeds with idle temps - finally tracked the problem down to a clogged radiator. Now it stays in the 186 - 193 F range.
Another forgotten but highly useful indicator is an intake manifold vacuum gauge; it can show basic fuel economy, vacuum leaks, ignition and engine issues if you know how to read it.
JAG “Give Me a Small Block Chevy 350 and a Star to Steer Her By” MAN