Using a code scanner.

[N A]

The check engine light came on last night on the ride home. The car also stalled a few times after start up. I had to drive with two feet for a few minutes, then it ran OK with the engine light coming on once in a while. I think it's the IAC or the used 3G alternator I installed a few months ago.

I have a Sunpro CP9015 code scanner (For '81 and newer Fords). I bought years ago and I don't have the user manual. How do I use it? The connectors are under the hood, on the driver's side fender, correct? Should I do it with the "Key On" or "Key Off? The red light flashes "twice and then once" for Code "21", correct? Three times then twice for Code "32", correct?

I want to try this old scanner before I toss it and purchase a newer scanner. Any tips?

[87mefull]

I have a similar one, you just have to count the flashes to figure out the codes you are getting. Example: four flashes, a pause, and four flashes is code 44. There should be two wiring harnesses (one small grey one, and a black one) next to the relays on the driver's side that plug into the code scanner. To test for codes in koeo, turn the key to the on position but don't start the car. Then turn on scanner and the codes should begin showing up.

For Koer, start the car and let it run for a few minutes or take it for a short drive. The cataytics and 02 sensors need to get hot first for a good reading. Then plug in the code scanner (with it still running) and codes should start showing up. Most likely you will see four flashes first (for 8 cylinder cars), then code 11 (self test ok), then the codes will start appearing. To test the TPS sensor, you have to goose the throttle or floor it once during the test.

[N A]

My scanner is broken or something. The red light comes on when I plug it in, but stays on. No flashes, the audio works, but No flashes key on, engine running, etc. My plug has a factory tag on it, but it only fits in the triangular port on the scanner. Is this correct? I want to buy a better code scanner. This one sucks. It's always on and I put a fresh 9V battery in before the tests.

[The Dude]

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...nce&n=15684181

I've used this one for years it's amazing, nothing like a digital scanner.

[gadget73]

There are 2 plugs. A triangular one, and a single wire. Are you connecting both of them? it won't work otherwise.

That Equuis scanner is decent. I've used one before, much easier to read than the blinky light POS. They're cheap too.

[N A]

The single wire plug won't fit into this cheap ass scanner. That is why it won't pull codes. I just have to buy a better scanner.

Thanks

[N A]

I fixed my scanner. The male prong for the single plug was pushed in. I pulled it out with a pair of needle nose pliers and I think I'm good to go. I'll try it again after work.

I still want to buy a brand new scanner with the digital display.

[N A]

Still no luck. The "single wire" plug on the harness next to the "triangular" plug is actually a "two wire" plug. Anyone have any ideas?

[gadget73]

two wire plug? wha? post pictures of this please. The setup on my car involves a black triangular plug and a grey single wire connector. This should be the same arrangement as all OBD I Ford products.

[N A]

The female part of this "plug" won't accept the prong from the scanner... It's different from the triangular plug. I'll post a pic tomorrow.

Just for shits and giggles, I pulled the IAC plug and the engine died. If I plug it back in, the engine runs. So the IAC isn't dead. Is this correct?

[88MercWagon]

The female part of this "plug" won't accept the prong from the scanner... It's different from the triangular plug. I'll post a pic tomorrow.

Just for shits and giggles, I pulled the IAC plug and the engine died. If I plug it back in, the engine runs. So the IAC isn't dead. Is this correct?

Correct

[N A]

I SUCK at taken pictures with this digital camera.



The triangular plug on the left, fits the code reader fine. The troublesome plug is on the right. It's the only other "open and available" plug on the harness. Is this the correct plug for the code reader?

[jasonh]

I don't think so:confused:. My 87 and my 92 have a grey single female plug bundled with the triangle one. My brothers 95 Taurus also has the same setup so I assume you should too.

[The Dude]

Yeah, all the cars i've done have a grey triangle. Keep looking.

[N A]

I have a black triangle plug and the other plug is black too.