Something to read trouble codes

[str8razor]

I have a 1996 F-250 7.3L powerstroke and I would like to get something to be able to read trouble codes on my truck. I think you can by computer programs and a connector for a laptop to read them but I've also seen the little gadgets at the auto parts stores. I'm wondering what is available and which is better. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

[ridiculously_necessary]

Auto Enginuity with the Ford package will do it. there are others as well but i am not familiar with them.

[CT Performance, Inc.]

A AE won't work on all OBS trucks..sometimes they will just not read..get a Snapon MT2500 used for $200-300 will work great!

[ridiculously_necessary]

interesting. well it read my95 anyway. you have to change teh commnication method. i would have to look that up again

[ekfinn]

Originally Posted by str8razor

I have a 1996 F-250 7.3L powerstroke and I would like to get something to be able to read trouble codes on my truck. I think you can by computer programs and a connector for a laptop to read them but I've also seen the little gadgets at the auto parts stores. I'm wondering what is available and which is better. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Where are you located? I have access to a Snap-On MODIS machine, and the guy who owns it is generally cool with me bringing by stuff to scan, given the beer money from the folks I help out continues to roll in.

[str8razor]

Thank you for the replies! I wound up getting one at NAPA called an INNOVA 1003E. It seems to work really well and I can erase that pesky "Check Engine" light if it ever comes on. Of course, after I have found out why it came on in the first place. I was quite surprised to see that my truck didn't have any codes stored in the computer. Even though my truck runs great, I figured after 4 years of never being read, it would most likely have something I need to check out. I've had to change out some of the normal wear parts such as the alt, water pump, vacuum pump, PS pump and such but I think any of these shouldn't give any trouble codes.

Do any of you know what sensors this truck's computer supports?

Thanks!