OBD2 Scanner

[Straversi]

I've read references to OBD2 Scanners in various Coyote build threads. I know they read input from your engine's control computer and give you fault codes.

Are they helpful, necessary, useful for the average guy?
Prices vary, any suggestions as to make, model?

-Steve

[mach'er]

I can't help you with respect to make or model of a scan tool, but if your build includes a PCM controlled engine or powertrain, I would highly recommend it.

For the average guy, probably not. But for a guy building a Coyote powered car in his own garage, hell yes. It would be an invaluable tool for diagnostics from first start through to years down the road. Frankly, I don't know if I would do a Coyote without access to a scan tool.

[Railroad]

Scanners are OK, but if you are running a Coyote and have not tuned it yet, I would look into an SCT X4 or n2Gauge.
You will not regret getting a tune and the mentioned devices can give you real time observation of more parameters than you need. Lund is my preferred tuner. Hope I am not posting after you have tuned, but did not want to re read everything.

[Straversi]

Yes, I am taking my car into a local performance shop for a custom tune. No more go karting until I get that done.

Just curious about when and how I would use the scanner myself.
-Steve

[Jdav]

I bought a cheap on on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G5EA74I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
I popped a code and wanted to know what it was - turns out it was P0116 that other Coyote owners have seen. Gave me piece of mind that I can keep driving and not worry too much that my "check engine" light is on.

[MisterAdam]

I needed the OBDII in order to get my title, it was the first thing the state trooper asked. FWIW, it's been 3 years with my coyote and no tune nor have i ever plugged into the OBDII...runs great.

[wareaglescott]

It is useful to be able to read and clear codes. I have the SCT X4. If you are taking it to a local tuner maybe ask them what they prefer.

From what I have gathered the crate version of the coyote has some unique differences from the production motor that can cause local tuners issues if they are not used to working with the crate PCM. It is all beyond me. I was very satisfied with Lund. Essentially you are dyno tuning the motor remotely through the data logs you take and send them and then they adjust the tune accordingly. Unofficially my friend at Ford performance said if he were going to have anyone tune his car it would be Lund. That was a good enough endorsement for me.
Not saying don't use your local guy but it may be worth an email to Lund just asking why you might want to use them vs going to a local tuner. Maybe it will be beneficial and maybe not.
Also I would not have any concern about further go carting before the tune. Lots of guys never get a tune and report no issues. For me I ran about 1000 miles without a tune. Thought I had a great performing car. Turns out it was only about an 8 out of 10 vs being what I now consider 10 out of 10 post tune.

PS - as Joel mentioned above there is a good chance you will see the MIL illuminate and the resulting code will be a P0116. They had a software upgrade at some point and everyone that got the Gen 2 coyote before that point has been getting this code and has either had to send in the PCM to Ford performance for an update or like me and Paul they sent us the tuner so we could upgrade ours at home. Joel mentioned he had to send his in as they were no longer willing to send the tuner out.

[Straversi]

Thanks everyone. Appreciate the info.
-Steve

[edwardb]

I too highly recommend having an ODB2 code reader for your Coyote setup. Very likely at some point you will get a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The reader will allow you to read and clear the DTC's after whatever solution is needed. I'd highly recommend something more than just the basic though. Buy one that is able to read and display the various data streams (there are 30+ in the Coyote crate version) while the engine is running/driving. Allows you to see/monitor engine temp, AFR, all kinds of things. This one is pretty cheap and works quite well: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06WP4KY24/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

I too recommend Lund Racing for a custom tune. If you don't have one already, they will recommend the nGauge to load tunes, run log files, etc. This device also has full capability to read and clear DTC's.