Questions about Scan tools

[Eric M.]

I've got the little "plug in tool" that puts the computer in Diagnostic mode and makes the SES light flash codes. After reading a bit, I'm under the impression all it does is short the A and B connectors together, just like the paperclip method. Does this $20 tool do anything more than the paperclip?

I've noticed that the GM Service Manuals often call for grounding the A and B terminals (like mentioned above) to perform certin tests. I have an Auto X-Ray Scan tool. From what I can tell, there isn't a mode on it to ground those 2 terminals. I can pull codes, monitor engine function, but, it can't put the trucks computer in diagnostic mode like the paperclip does. Am I right about this?

Lastly, the service manual talks about reviewing engine performance over a period of time. That a Scan tool can collect engine data every few seconds and somehow let you view it later. Example - I'm getting an intermitent code 44 (lean). The manual tells me to hook up the Scan tool and drive until I throw the code, then review the Integer and Block Learn at the time the code 44 was throw. Is there some way to review or download this info. onto a PC so I can view the other engine functions at the time the code was thrown?

Thanks,

Eric M.

 

[dremu]

Lastly, the service manual talks about reviewing engine performance over a period of time. That a Scan tool can collect engine data every few seconds and somehow let you view it later. Example - I'm getting an intermitent code 44 (lean). The manual tells me to hook up the Scan tool and drive until I throw the code, then review the Integer and Block Learn at the time the code 44 was throw. Is there some way to review or download this info. onto a PC so I can view the other engine functions at the time the code was thrown?

I donno about most of your issues, as my trucks are all pre-TBI (mmm, got dizzle for shizzle!)

However, I gather that WinALDL is popular for logging:

http://winaldl.joby.se/

-- A