I need to break down and buy a scanner to see what codes im getting. What is the best tool, and where to buy it? Thanks in advance!

 

You dont need a scanner for OBD1 man,just bend a paper clip into a U shape,turn the key on,and stick the clip in the TOP RIGHT holes in the ECM connector and the SES will flash the codes out to you. Do a search and you'll find out what im talking about.

 

Yep, that is one of the easiest ways to do it. If you want a small handheld tool that will give you an actual numeric display, then you can buy a cheap unit from Wal-Mart or any auto parts store. If you want something a little fancier that can give diagnostic capabilities as well as other functions, then the Scanmaster is a pretty trick unit.

 

No, no, no. The paper clip trick doesn't work past '93. You'll need either an OBDI code reader or scan tool. Another option is if you have a lap top, you can get the appropriate software and cable. For hand held code readers and scan tools, search for Actron and Autoxray. Amazon.com has them. But, check around.

 

Well i found this http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...9386410&rd=1,1

I also found this http://www.aldlcable.com/sc/details.asp?item=aldlobd1u

Appearently I can buy that $60 cable and download free software to my laptop. However the screen shots I have seen look like foreign language to me!!

 

You can get a cable from AKM cables also. Since you have a 94 you can download a program called freescan to use with the cables. That's what I use on my 94. The program is easy to understand and really helps when you're trying to find a problem.

 

As noted by moparman... that is bad info. 94/95 LT1's can not be scanned by shorting the ALDL pins with a paperclip, nor with the $30 Actron "scanner" that says on the box it will work for 94's. It's nothing more than a $30 paperclip.

The Actron you linked will work. You may also be able find a used AutoXray OBD-I scanner for a bit less. Then there's the ScanMaster LT1 for about $250.... worth it if you can find one used for less $$$$.

You can use Freescan as noted in the post above (the price is right ) ; TTS DataMaster (free download and 20 uses) ; or EFVLive V4 (costs a few bucks). You can also use pcmcomm, which comes bundled with the LT1_Edit OBD-I programming software. Avoid an ancient DOS program call Diacom.