Scan tools pros & cons Tech II, AutoTap...?

[Heartbeat Hauler]

I am thinking about getting a scan tool for my 01 and would like some feed back on the different scan tools, i.e tech II, Autotap. I also have two other GM vehicles that I would like to use the tool to see & clear codes. I did a search and there isn't much about it. Sounds like it might be a good article of the month.
JP

[LanduytG]

JP
I have the Tech II, it is pricey but I don't think you can beat it. The others are OK for just reading codes and what not but they won't do everything the Tech II can.

Greg

[Kennedy]

Greg,

Thought I'd pass this along:

I haven't seen the exact details, but the GM Flash kit is supposed to be available in a new format that allows VTD learn, BCM programming, Snapshot graphing, AND software updates self installed via CD. All is done on a PC for excellent graphics basically just like the GM Techs have. Only $1500 list! :eek:


For those not "in the know", this is basically a software pkg with a hardware lock, and a RS232 to serial cable...


JP, for the money, I'd suggest the Predator. Although limited to the Dmax (not sure about general code reading/reset) it CAN see most of the engine data table that the Tech II can. Last I knew, only the boost and baro were skewed...

[Heartbeat Hauler]

Well I found a web site for the AutoTap, but it's almost 500 bucks plus you gotta have the Palm or a laptop. I have the laptop, but driving around with it in the truck ain't real convenient. You'd think they would sell the complete package (hardware & software) for that much. Greg, you said the tech II is pricey, care to elaborate? And, where can I read about it?
Thanks,
JP

[Kennedy]

Last I heard, Tech 2's were running across $3k

[Heartbeat Hauler]

Yikes 3K!! :eek:
I think maybe I'll just get on good terms with the technician at the dealership. Of course the AutoTap is somewhat reasonable, except for the part of buying a Palm.
JP

[Kennedy]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but the Predator will do MORE than the Autotap when Dmax specific as the Autotap (last I heard) was missing a ton of data tables.

The other neat thing about the Predator is that it will correct tire size, and should equal or beat the Banks Ottomind in the performance dept...

[twaddle]

JK,
Do you have any part numbers for GM Flash kit with this new format?
Does it do all the things (or more) the tech 2 will do for a 1996 6.5L engine?

Jim Twaddle
Biggar, Scotland
twaddle@globalnet.co.uk

[ibelyea]

I've had the Autotap for over 5 years and it has helped me do many investigations on performance. Get codes and delete them. While it can't do all that the Tech II it was a H!!! of a lot cheaper. I did have it upgraded to work with all US products. I also got a good deal on a Palm on EBAY. Now all I need is to get the license for the palm and I'm all set. It reads about 160 different parameters which I have found to be sufficient.I do not run around with the laptop hooked up all of the time, only when I want to run and record a segment of driving. Yes it does record all of the parameters I have set up to collect and then do a non realtime playback to do comparisons of other runs. I can also download the parameters into a spreadsheet. I had some problems with my unit while trying to read a friend's Dodge. Autotap did a free repair so now it works for Dodge's as well.

[Heartbeat Hauler]

The autoTap sounds good, but I'm leaning toward the predator because of the ability to change tire/gear ratio parameters. One thing though, does the PRedator plug into the diag port or does it install into the main harness. I have the Banks stuff and don't really want to be pluging and unpluging.
JP

[DMAXED]

I was looking into the autotap but like hartbeat hauler said you can't make any changes with the autotap, but I like the idea of having it display on a laptop and you can log data on runs and play back later . I talked to the people at autotap and they told me that it will display a boot load of data if you get the adhanced software not the generic thats what they tell me anyway.

[Kennedy]

I'm sure that that Autotap probably upgraded the system since I last spoke with Mdrag, but at the time, it was lacking detail on fuel system data IIRC.

The Predator plugs right into the ALDL connector just like a scan tool.