I'm presently working on a 1991 Toyota 2wd Pickup.
I have most tools needed, but would like to ad a Code Reader to my set.
Never haveing had one, which one is best for a hobbyist type mechanic, I would like a pretty good one, easy to use, read and interpret.
I've worked on and rebuilt several motorcycles in the past, decide to try my hand at these little trucks.

 

A paper clip or short piece of wire is your scan tool. Jump the TE1 and E1 of the diagnostic connector next to the underhood fuse box, turn the key on but don't start the engine, the CEL will flash a pattern. Count the blinks and that's the code.

http://www.lcengineering.com/LCNewsl..._TECHNOTE.html

 

Snap-on MT2500 with appropriate plug adaptor and software cartridges can get some info over and above merely reading the codes out of these pre-OBD-2 Toyotas, but pricy for all but the most hardcore enthusiastic
Toyota tinkerers.

MT2500 cost thousands back in the day, but one can be got now for a couple hundred since they have been superceded by newer model scanners.

 

Thanks for the quick response.
I'll give the "Paper Clip" method a go and see what happens, really on sense in re-inventing the wheel.
Again thanks, I'm sure I will have more questions in the future, good to know there are folks willing to help.

 

In the early days of Electronic Fuel Injection(pre-1996), every automotive manufacturer had a different process to retrieve stored codes, and possibly look at engine data. Some used scan tools, some used jumper plugs, some used a variety of diagnostic ports or a combination of those.

The "paper clip" jumper method is pretty much the official method to retrieve codes on these older Toyotas. The only difference is that Toyota shows a Special Service Tool (SST) in place of the paper clip that is basically a jumper wire with the correct sized terminals on the end.

Here is Toyota's procedure for the 22R-E, from the factory repair manual (same information as the LCE link above but with more information): http://htftp.offroadsz.com/marinhake...26diagnosi.pdf

Were you also planning on using a code reader/scanner for 1996 and newer vehicles too, or just your truck?

 

For right now, just the 91 truck. Maybe something diffrent in the future, but for the time being this little truck will keep me busy.
THANKS FOR THE LINK.