Autotap OBDII Scanner - FULL REVIEW (long)
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From: Bay Area, CA
Autotap OBDII Scanner - FULL REVIEW (long)
This is the coolest toy you will ever get for your L; it is also the most useful test/diagnostic tool you will ever get for your L. www.autotap.com Model AT2, tested on my 2000 Lightning: ~3000 miles, stock.
Setup/Operation:
Plug one end into the OBDII port on truck, plug the other end into laptop's serial port. Start software, it scans the OBDII port/ECU for supported parameters, you pick the parameters you want to monitor, that's it. The selected parameters are displayed and updated constantly. Update frequency is 4-5 times a second max, down to 1 update every 2-3 seconds, depending on the number of parameters being displayed. The software also supports a "logging" feature.
Pluses:
+ Some useful parameters:
* Intake air temp / Engine coolant temp / Cylinder head temp / Trans oil temp
* O2 sensors (2)
* Ignition Timing
* Misfires
* MAF flow rate
* Barometric pressure
+ Fast sampling / update frequency - as long as you dont monitor too much simultaneously
+ DOS software is good. Fast, easy to setup, and easy to use - surprisingly it easier to use than the Windows software.
+ DOS Logging feature is very useful - hit one key, it starts writing the selected parameters to a file.
+ Manual is good - though there's really not much to learn and Online help is good - some of the vehicle parameters are explained very well.
+ Windows software is OK... definitely flashy, but somewhat buggy, and slower sampling rate than DOS software.
+ Windows software's logging function has a 'playback' feature (so you dont have to read raw text in a file).
+ It is a scan tool, you can view and clear Diagnostic/MIL codes - incredible list of Diagnostic codes in manual.
+ Ordering was painless - AT2 was in stock, shipped next day, arrived as promised.
+ Tech support is responsive (same day email response) - dont know if they're any good yet, but at least they dont ignore you!
Minuses:
- My absolute biggest disappointment is that the unit does not support any Knock Sensor data - no knock sensor timing retard, or even raw sensor activity. But I am trading emails with tech support to figure out if the OBDII port doesn't support this parameter, or if it's just not in the software (keeping fingers crossed that it's just a software limitation).
- No Lightning specific parameters... no intercooler temp, no boost pressure. - I will talk to tech support about this next.
- This is not a dash "Gauge" replacement - not by any means. You cant drive and watch the PC at the same time. It is best suited for specific data gathering/testing, with either a passenger or via the logging feature.
- It is as awkward to use as you'd expect a PC would be in your truck... the laptop can sit on the armrest, but it requires one hand to hold it, and still bounces around.
- For half the parameters you'll say WTF does this mean?! - not all the parameters have a "help".
- It's not cheap: $250... a group purchase of 5 drops price to $200.
- And you need a laptop.
Log I did showing one parameter and the sampling rate here
Log showing four parameters here
All parameters available for the L:
If anyone wants me to log parameters for a stock L, I'll be more than happy to do it.
-Dreamin
araja@kestrelsolutions.com
[This message has been edited by DreaminAboutL (edited 09-23-2000).]
Setup/Operation:
Plug one end into the OBDII port on truck, plug the other end into laptop's serial port. Start software, it scans the OBDII port/ECU for supported parameters, you pick the parameters you want to monitor, that's it. The selected parameters are displayed and updated constantly. Update frequency is 4-5 times a second max, down to 1 update every 2-3 seconds, depending on the number of parameters being displayed. The software also supports a "logging" feature.
Pluses:
+ Some useful parameters:
* Intake air temp / Engine coolant temp / Cylinder head temp / Trans oil temp
* O2 sensors (2)
* Ignition Timing
* Misfires
* MAF flow rate
* Barometric pressure
+ Fast sampling / update frequency - as long as you dont monitor too much simultaneously
+ DOS software is good. Fast, easy to setup, and easy to use - surprisingly it easier to use than the Windows software.
+ DOS Logging feature is very useful - hit one key, it starts writing the selected parameters to a file.
+ Manual is good - though there's really not much to learn and Online help is good - some of the vehicle parameters are explained very well.
+ Windows software is OK... definitely flashy, but somewhat buggy, and slower sampling rate than DOS software.
+ Windows software's logging function has a 'playback' feature (so you dont have to read raw text in a file).
+ It is a scan tool, you can view and clear Diagnostic/MIL codes - incredible list of Diagnostic codes in manual.
+ Ordering was painless - AT2 was in stock, shipped next day, arrived as promised.
+ Tech support is responsive (same day email response) - dont know if they're any good yet, but at least they dont ignore you!
Minuses:
- My absolute biggest disappointment is that the unit does not support any Knock Sensor data - no knock sensor timing retard, or even raw sensor activity. But I am trading emails with tech support to figure out if the OBDII port doesn't support this parameter, or if it's just not in the software (keeping fingers crossed that it's just a software limitation).
- No Lightning specific parameters... no intercooler temp, no boost pressure. - I will talk to tech support about this next.
- This is not a dash "Gauge" replacement - not by any means. You cant drive and watch the PC at the same time. It is best suited for specific data gathering/testing, with either a passenger or via the logging feature.
- It is as awkward to use as you'd expect a PC would be in your truck... the laptop can sit on the armrest, but it requires one hand to hold it, and still bounces around.
- For half the parameters you'll say WTF does this mean?! - not all the parameters have a "help".
- It's not cheap: $250... a group purchase of 5 drops price to $200.
- And you need a laptop.
Log I did showing one parameter and the sampling rate here
Log showing four parameters here
All parameters available for the L:
If anyone wants me to log parameters for a stock L, I'll be more than happy to do it.
-Dreamin
araja@kestrelsolutions.com
[This message has been edited by DreaminAboutL (edited 09-23-2000).]
Senior Member
Joined: May 2000
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I thought the autotap was only for odbII type computers. Do our F150s have odbII? I thought all the odbII's had the port under the steering wheel that you plug the adapter cable into. Our trucks computers are on the passenger side below the glove box. Am I not correct on this??? Or does the Lightning have a different computer module???
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 1,173
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From: Allen, TX, USA
Yeah, my question is this...
Can I use it on all my OBD-II vehicles? It would be worth it just to use as a good, quality code scanner if nothing else!
------------------
Wes Tarbox
90 LX 5.0 (10.69 @ 134.7)--597rwhp/590rwtq
96 Cobra (12.34 @ 115.8)--392rwhp/433rwtq
99 Lightning (13.20 @ 103.8)--364rwhp/444rwtq
00 Expedition XLT 5.4
http://members.aol.com/Wa2fst/index.html
Can I use it on all my OBD-II vehicles? It would be worth it just to use as a good, quality code scanner if nothing else!
------------------
Wes Tarbox
90 LX 5.0 (10.69 @ 134.7)--597rwhp/590rwtq
96 Cobra (12.34 @ 115.8)--392rwhp/433rwtq
99 Lightning (13.20 @ 103.8)--364rwhp/444rwtq
00 Expedition XLT 5.4
http://members.aol.com/Wa2fst/index.html
Thread Starter
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Senior Member
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From: Bay Area, CA
2000F150Fun: All US-spec vehicles model year 1996 and later are OBDII compliant. If your truck is 1996+, there is an OBDII port somewhere... it will be within 3 feet of the steering wheel (under dash, in center console, under seat, etc.).
WA 2 FST:
90 LX 5.0 - NO
96 Cobra - most likely
99 Lightning - YES
00 Expedition - YES
But send an email to support@autotap.com to verify. And I think you'll find a lot more to do with this thing than just scan Diag codes!
WA 2 FST:
90 LX 5.0 - NO
96 Cobra - most likely
99 Lightning - YES
00 Expedition - YES
But send an email to support@autotap.com to verify. And I think you'll find a lot more to do with this thing than just scan Diag codes!
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 725
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From: State of Confusion
For those without laptops,
Check out: http://www.actron.com/cgi-bin/web_st...=6070861_20353
and http://www.actron.com/cgi-bin/web_st...=6070861_20353
I might try one of these myself.
Lightning Bob
[This message has been edited by Lightning Bob (edited 09-26-2000).]
Check out: http://www.actron.com/cgi-bin/web_st...=6070861_20353
and http://www.actron.com/cgi-bin/web_st...=6070861_20353
I might try one of these myself.
Lightning Bob
[This message has been edited by Lightning Bob (edited 09-26-2000).]
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Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 184
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From: Woodlands, TX
I would like to know if the second Air Charge Temp sensor (after the intercooler) can be logged.
I noticed two entries on your screen capture above with "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" one with 129 F and one with 320 F. I wonder if this is it?
Next thing I'd like to know if it can clear the "Rom Error" or whatever code a aftermarket chip throws.
Why didn't you use the windows interface? I thought that was a really nice looking program with good graphical features. The easy to use features are what made me think that this is better than what is offered at
http://www.obd-2.com/ .
The windows interface also has better descriptions of parameters and trouble codes.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
I noticed two entries on your screen capture above with "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" one with 129 F and one with 320 F. I wonder if this is it?
Next thing I'd like to know if it can clear the "Rom Error" or whatever code a aftermarket chip throws.
Why didn't you use the windows interface? I thought that was a really nice looking program with good graphical features. The easy to use features are what made me think that this is better than what is offered at
http://www.obd-2.com/ .
The windows interface also has better descriptions of parameters and trouble codes.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
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Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 184
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From: Woodlands, TX
So which 4 of you want to help me get a group buy going? 
If you are interested I suggest going to the website http://www.autotap.com and going through the windows demo. I think the graphical features are one of the most useful tools.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
If you are interested I suggest going to the website http://www.autotap.com and going through the windows demo. I think the graphical features are one of the most useful tools.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM
[This message has been edited by 351stang (edited 04-10-2001).]
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 184
Likes: 0
From: Woodlands, TX
Autotap answered some questions of mine via e-mail, so I'll share them.
Autotap,
I am very interested in your OBD-II reader. I have some questions:
1.) Can both Air Charge Temperature sensors on a 2001 Ford Lightning be
read? There is one before and after the intercooler.
A: I do not currently have any information on this vehicle. If it is using the
normal Ford protocol, should be able to get good amount of data.
2.) Do I have to know the voltage ranges of the OEM sensors to get Autotap
to display in degrees Fahrenheit or % open throttle?
A: These should be displayed in % for TPS, and deg for temperature.
3.) Can oxygen sensor voltage be displayed as an air/fuel ratio?
A: No
4.) Can all trouble codes be removed from memory? Can a single code be
removed if multiple codes are present?
A: AutoTap will clear all DTCs that it reads. Works as an all or none for
clearing.
5.) Can an aftermarket computer chip be installed in the car's computer and
still have autotap read correctly?
A: Yes. Several AutoTap users enjoy the logging feature specifically for this
reason. It allows them to do a before and after comparison for
modifications.
6.) Are there any trouble codes that Ford's scanners can read, but yours
cannot?
A: AutoTap gets all of its information from the PCM, which is engine/drivetrain
data only.
7.) Do you offer a discount to full time students like some of your
competitors do?
A: Not at this time.
Autotap,
I am very interested in your OBD-II reader. I have some questions:
1.) Can both Air Charge Temperature sensors on a 2001 Ford Lightning be
read? There is one before and after the intercooler.
A: I do not currently have any information on this vehicle. If it is using the
normal Ford protocol, should be able to get good amount of data.
2.) Do I have to know the voltage ranges of the OEM sensors to get Autotap
to display in degrees Fahrenheit or % open throttle?
A: These should be displayed in % for TPS, and deg for temperature.
3.) Can oxygen sensor voltage be displayed as an air/fuel ratio?
A: No
4.) Can all trouble codes be removed from memory? Can a single code be
removed if multiple codes are present?
A: AutoTap will clear all DTCs that it reads. Works as an all or none for
clearing.
5.) Can an aftermarket computer chip be installed in the car's computer and
still have autotap read correctly?
A: Yes. Several AutoTap users enjoy the logging feature specifically for this
reason. It allows them to do a before and after comparison for
modifications.
6.) Are there any trouble codes that Ford's scanners can read, but yours
cannot?
A: AutoTap gets all of its information from the PCM, which is engine/drivetrain
data only.
7.) Do you offer a discount to full time students like some of your
competitors do?
A: Not at this time.
Thread Starter
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Senior Member
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From: Bay Area, CA
315stang:
As mentioned by Autotap, the unit does not give any "Lightning" specific data (might be an OBD-II port limitation). So whatever temps are available on a regular F150, that's what we'll get. But it does seem like "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" should be post intercooler, while "Air intake temp" is pre intercooler, and "Cylinder Head temp" is just that. I dont think the "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" 320.00 is a temp figure because nothing in the intake air track should be hotter than the "Cylinder Head temp" which is 186 deg. I think the 320.00 may be the voltage equiv for the "2nd Ar chng" 320mv?
I'll play around with the unit and also look at the help info (which is pretty good) and see if I can figure out what exactly "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" is.
I will also try to clear any error codes i have. But note that some people are reporting that they unplugged their chip, cleared the codes (disconnect battery, etc.) and did not have any error code, but when the dealer plugged the tranny up to the diagnostic machine... it said "UNKNOWN PROGRAM". Not a code, but it couldn't sync up to the program running in the tranny... impling that the tranny prgram does not get reset?!
I didn't show the windows interface simply because I wanted to show all the parameters available, and more parameter can be displayed on the DOS screen. If I want to monitor data, I use the windows interface, it is much nicer; if I want to log anything, I usually use the DOS interface as it has a faster update frequency.
As mentioned by Autotap, the unit does not give any "Lightning" specific data (might be an OBD-II port limitation). So whatever temps are available on a regular F150, that's what we'll get. But it does seem like "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" should be post intercooler, while "Air intake temp" is pre intercooler, and "Cylinder Head temp" is just that. I dont think the "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" 320.00 is a temp figure because nothing in the intake air track should be hotter than the "Cylinder Head temp" which is 186 deg. I think the 320.00 may be the voltage equiv for the "2nd Ar chng" 320mv?
I'll play around with the unit and also look at the help info (which is pretty good) and see if I can figure out what exactly "2nd Air Charge Temp Sn Ip" is.
I will also try to clear any error codes i have. But note that some people are reporting that they unplugged their chip, cleared the codes (disconnect battery, etc.) and did not have any error code, but when the dealer plugged the tranny up to the diagnostic machine... it said "UNKNOWN PROGRAM". Not a code, but it couldn't sync up to the program running in the tranny... impling that the tranny prgram does not get reset?!
I didn't show the windows interface simply because I wanted to show all the parameters available, and more parameter can be displayed on the DOS screen. If I want to monitor data, I use the windows interface, it is much nicer; if I want to log anything, I usually use the DOS interface as it has a faster update frequency.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 209
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<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by 2000F150Fun:
I thought the autotap was only for odbII type computers. Do our F150s have odbII? I thought all the odbII's had the port under the steering wheel that you plug the adapter cable into. Our trucks computers are on the passenger side below the glove box. Am I not correct on this??? Or does the Lightning have a different computer module???</font>
I thought the autotap was only for odbII type computers. Do our F150s have odbII? I thought all the odbII's had the port under the steering wheel that you plug the adapter cable into. Our trucks computers are on the passenger side below the glove box. Am I not correct on this??? Or does the Lightning have a different computer module???</font>
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 184
Likes: 0
From: Woodlands, TX
Tranny code doesn't get reset? Hmmmmmm......removing evidence of a chip was a primary motivator for me to purchase one. The diagnostic features are pretty nice, even if the tranny can't be reset. There has to be some way to do it.
I know with non-intercooled centrigual blowers that manifold temps can easily approach 300 degrees F. 320 seems too high for an intercooled supercharger, but who knows.
Thanks for all this information!
-Scott
I know with non-intercooled centrigual blowers that manifold temps can easily approach 300 degrees F. 320 seems too high for an intercooled supercharger, but who knows.
Thanks for all this information!
-Scott
Banned
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 570
Likes: 0
From: Florida
<font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by 351stang:
So which 4 of you want to help me get a group buy going?
If you are interested I suggest going to the website http://www.autotap.com and going through the windows demo. I think the graphical features are one of the most useful tools.
</font>
So which 4 of you want to help me get a group buy going?
If you are interested I suggest going to the website http://www.autotap.com and going through the windows demo. I think the graphical features are one of the most useful tools.
</font>
Email me at ******@Tampabay.rr.com
------------------
Rick
White 00 #2236 of 4966
My Mods & More
Moderator 2nd Gen Lightnings
<A HREF="http://a1060.g.akamai.net/f/1060/597/30minutes/www.zing.com/picture/p0903ca5788ed2e743923d60b1a060fed/feb8b2de.jpg" TARGET=_blank>
</A>
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 184
Likes: 0
From: Woodlands, TX
If anyone is interested in trying to get a group purchase of Autotaps going, please e-mail me at:
Scott.Weatherford@ps.ge.com
DreaminAboutL mentioned the GP price is $200, but I haven't confirmed this.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM
Scott.Weatherford@ps.ge.com
DreaminAboutL mentioned the GP price is $200, but I haven't confirmed this.
------------------
Scott Weatherford
351W 1993 LX 11.9 @ 118MPH (Drag Radials)
Black 2001 Lightning 13.62 @ ??? MPH
WWW.TheVL.COM/VENOM