Recommendations on an OBD 1.5 Scanner
 

After doing some google searching ive found a few GM sites, and some of their users say that a particular scanner works better than others. Obviously since im new to this I have no idea if this is true.

So basically here is my question. Since I have a 95 with a OBD 1.5 setup Ill need that type of code scanner. Does one brand work better for our vehicles versus another? If not what brand would you guys suggest?

(I tried to search the forums on this and didnt find anything.)

Shawn

Some of the better Actron scanners (OBD 2 compliant) will read 1.5 if you have the proper cable. They are one of the most widely used ones for home use.

Thanks for the reply. ok here is a pic of my connector and after reading so many complaints im assuming a obd 2 wont read the codes. so should i just go with a obd 1?

An OBD 1 scanner isn't really much of a scanner. Basically, you're just shorting out certain pins in order to flash your check engine light. OBD 1.5 is a huge grey area since it was the transition to OBD 2. You have to have access to an OBD 2 scanner with the proper 1.5 cable to pull codes.

This and a laptop. I have one and I like it. It can't be used on OBD2 though so it's a bit expensive to buy for use on a limited amount of vehicles but if you own one, then it can come in real handy.

I have a '95 Blazer that states its an OBD2 on the emissions label and I own a OTC Genisys scanner that I bought used. It works on all domestic pre OBD2. Maybe it's the Scanner, but I use the OBD2 cable that's used on 96' and up. The unit I have only has the software built in to cover cars up to '03.

Retro thanks for that link. awesome! I think thats what ill do.

Appreciate all the replies yall..

All you need is a paper clip to pull codes from an OBD1.5 ecm. It's just an OBD1 ecm with an OBD2 connector. Figure out the pinout of the connector and you use the paper clip just like and OBD1 truck.

https://blazerforum.com/forum/2nd-ge...5-codes-49438/

are these any good??
OBDLink SX
ScanTool.net LLC - OBDLink SX Scan Tool/OBD Interface - ScanTool.net

they seem cheap enough

I cant comment on that particular model. I have a Elmscan 5 USB from that site and love it. I use it with Scanmaster and PalmerPerformance software.
Its not comparable to a Snap On Verus, but its much cheaper.

An autoxray code scout will work nicely provided you have the GM specific cable with it. Problem with the OBD 1.5 or B@#$(*d versions is it is a obd 1 system with an obd 2 port. When you plug in a standard obd 2 scanner, it thinks it is talking to an obd2 system and not the obd1. In my case, the code readers I used at Autozone and O'Reiley's kepy saying, "Unable to establish Communications." I ended up getting an Tech 1 code scanner from ebay to read and diagnose my system. Came in real handy troubleshooting my ABS system. I still have the autoxray code scout to help out other people needing one.

So did you have to piece your scanner together? Or did you buy it all together?

Had to do both
 

I found the Tech1 using allofcraigslist.com and asked the guy to put it on ebay for mutual buyer/seller protection and avoid the paranoia of CL scams. I was fortunate that the Tech 1 came with the Mass Storage Cartridge which diagnoses Powertrain, Transmission and ABS along with SIR (airbag) systems. I think it goes up to 1999 models. It works on my '95 so I am happy.

I had to buy separate cables and an adapter to diagnose the ABS system. The 16/12 adapter was $105 alone. Altogether it came to about $700.00 for the set but since I plan on keeping my blazer for a long time, I didn't mind spending the money. Add in the Factory Service manual and you can do damn near anything.

The thing about buying the separate cables was it was sold with Isuzu adapters and another cable I have no use for.

I play around with it from time to time. I can see while my blazer is running oil pressure, manifold intake air temperature, water temp, ignition timing and several other things that standard code readers won't show. With a push of a button, I can idle up or down.

Do an ebay search for tech1 and you get several results.

Parts list numbers are for the things I use

Tech1
Mass Storage cartridge p/n 3000003
GM 16/12 pin adapter P/N 02001574
adapter for testing ABS P/N TA02659
Cable P/N TA00011B
14/12 pin adapter P/N 3000086
Tech 1 OBD2 interface module P/N 3000091
16/24 pin cable adapter P/N 3000081

I tried this on mine, but it doesn't works. I have pins 4 and 5, not 3 and 4.

If you are going to do it, do it right.
 

An actron code scout will do the trick nicely if you have the GM specific cable. I upgraded to a Mastertech and have my older tech1A in a box. Both work great.

I see far too many hillbilly redneck fixes in this forum for my liking. Take care of your blazer and it will take care of you.

Where can I get that specific cable ?

I know this is an old thread but maybe this will help someone out. The Actron CP9145 will work on OBD 1.5 . I have one that works great and it has the OBD 2 style 16 pin cable. Only drawback is it won't do ABS or Airbags. It was pretty reasonable a couple of years ago. I got one from Amazon for $135. Hope this helps.