92 pickup scan tool

[BK63]

Is there a relatively inexpensive scan tool I can get for a 92 K1500 ? Have a service engine light on and could probably use it in the future also.

[OnyxMAX]

yep should have one at wal-mart or equivelent in your area or at most auto places. prolly $50. or you can do the paperclip trick.

 

ok i can't remeber what termanals to jump but it will make the mil flas out the codes.

[05Jay1500]

yep should have one at wal-mart or equivelent in your area or at most auto places. prolly $50. or you can do the paperclip trick.

 

ok i can't remeber what termanals to jump but it will make the mil flas out the codes.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

I wouldn't spend a penny for a "scan tool" for a vehicle with the TBI system. As OnyxMAX said, you can use a paperclip or short piece of wire.

 

Just short pins A and B in the ALDL connector under your dash, then turn on the ignition (but don't start the engine). A code 12 will flash 3 times, then the stored code(s) will flash 3 times each, then code 12 will flash 3 times. Once you've repaired the problem, you can clear the codes by simply disconnecting the battery for about 30 seconds. If you don't have a manual, you should get one.

 

The Haynes manual describes the TBI system pretty well and provides a list of codes. Look in the emissions system chapter. Or, you can probably find all the info you need online.

 

A hint... The coolant temperature sensor is often the source of issues with this system. The throttle position sensor, fuel pump relay, and O2 sensor are also prone to failure.

 

The beautiful thing is, the SES light has already come on. So the system is just begging to tell you what's wrong.

[BK63]

The local parts store scanned it and told me it's the coolant temp sensor. Thanks for the tips on shorting the pins. This truck is new to me, just bought it as a plow vehicle for my driveway and winter driving. Can anybody recommend a good repair manual? Thanks.

[BK63]

OK I got the code, got a book, one last problem to fix and I think this truck is good to go. I need to replace the coolant sensor. What I'm wondering since it's been in there for years is do these things usually unscrew ok or are they fragile and may break off? Just looking for prior experience. I don't want to create more issues and have to get this thing towed to the garage.

[OnyxMAX]

depends on what they used to seal it. tape or sillycon sould come out easy locktite and well... it should be all metal only the wire thing plastic and breaking that when replacing is no biggy.

 

use the biggest tool you can for the job and it should work out fine.