Getting Codes

[KYRangerDude]

I don't have a code checker, was wondering if any national auto parts do that. I checked Advanced Auto and they do a free check, but nothing under 96. I have a 92 2.9 Also heard that their code reader wasn't the best.

Also, when is a good time to do a code check? After reading different posts it seems most are done when a check engine light comes on. My check engine light has never come on.

If I can find a private person with one, what would be a fair price to pay for a code check?

Also, if I get error codes, can I write them down and come home and find what they mean online?

 

[gaz]

Obdi and obdii diagnostics devices

Where is Whitly City?

I have both the simple $40 type which has worked without fail yet. It hasn't isolated every failure I have ever had but it always at least tried.

I more recently aquired a more elaborate engine diagnostic system, the Equus system for both OBD I and OBD II, for almost every car/truck (speaking relatively, from the early 1980's to present). It is more spendy but you could easily recover the cost by assisting friends, neighbors and relatives for free, then accepting thier CASH-of-APPRECIATION, upon solving thier delemas. I haven't helped someone yet who wasn't happy to throw over a $20-25 for the assistance and a vehicle back to FULL MISSION CAPABLE!!! Help eight buddies, system for FREE.

It too has worked great, there have been a couple of systems it wasn't as happy with but our Ford onboard diagnostice is one that it particularly LIKES!

kEVIN

 

[KYRangerDude]

Whitley City is about as far from anywhere you can get. I'm in the mtns , hollers, and ridges of southeast KY. Pure Appalachia!

I was just wondering if my check engine light hasn't come on, if a code reader would work? I'm having idle issues and thought perhaps I could "code" to narrow down to possible issues without having to check or replace working parts.

 

[gaz]

Codes

Not all codes will cause a "CHECK ENGINE" light.

 

[Psychopete]

Research the OBD-I connector, there's some info in the tech library under EEC-IV diagnostics, but there is info out on the net with more info (including videos). It's not sepcific to a Ranger, I have pulled codes the same way between my '88 Ranger, '88 ('93 motor) Mustang, '93 Tempo, etc. You can pull codes by simply using a piece of wire or paper clip to jumper the terminal and small square plug, get into the truck, turn the key onto run, and the KOEO/CM test will blink out on your check engine light. It is very simple once you have gone through it.

 

[fastpakr]

Yep. There is no need whatsoever for a code scanner for an EEC-IV Ford with a Check Engine Light. A paperclip will give you all the same information you can get from any scanner short of the uber-expensive shop diagnostic equipment. Once you have the codes, a Mitchell manual at the library will walk you all the way through the pinpoint tests to resolving your problem.

 

[kimcrwbr1]

In the tech library you can use the two or three code link to see what the code is for or where to start always fix the codes in the order received and reset the computer after you change or clean a sensor.