Input on OBDII scan tool - no laptop
 

Hey all,

Need to buy a scan tool. Have a 99 4runner, and I don't have a laptop anymore. I've been working on my cars for the last 9 years, but I'm by no means any sort of expert, the way I work is to wait till something breaks then figure it out.

I am at the point where I'm going to learn more about the air/ fuel system because "Venus" is having acceleration and rough start problems. Considering getting more than the bare minimum <$50 OBDII reader, would like some input on whether it will ever provide me with useful info? I'm assuming being able to get live data while the engine is running and O2 stats will be useful?

I like this unit

Roadi RDT61 OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code Reader with Live Engine Data and Freeze Frame Capability

because, well, for one their description had a lot of useful information written up well. But maybe they just have a good writer : )

Anybody try it out? Scanguage II gets a lot of hits when I search the forum, specific reasons people like that one? (I don't want something in the car all the time).

Thanks for any input!

I got the scanguage II a couple of weeks ago. I have been paying close attention to the fuel consumption using it - getting much better gas mileage!

I have one of these for when the big scan tools at work are too slow (usually when I just need to pull a code), it does basic live data on most vehicles, and will give you what you need as far as fuel trims and o2 voltages.

http://www.cornwelltools.com/webcat/...52d-Creader-VI

That said, unless you know what you're looking at, you probably won't know where to go based on fuel trims and o2 voltage readings.

'99 Runner so can I assume 3.4 V6? You would be amazed the difference a fresh set of plugs and wires will make in one of those trucks.