Special Tools (Diagnostic)
NOTE:
A special "Scan" tester, plugged into the ALDL, can read trouble codes, check system voltages on the serial data line and save a great deal of time. For additional information, see tester owner's manual. Also, see SCAN TESTER USAGE and SCAN TESTER DATA table in this article.
The computerized engine control system is most easily diagnosed using a "Scan" tester. However, other tools may aid in diagnosing problems if a "Scan" tester is unavailable. These tools are a tachometer, dwell meter, test light, ohmmeter, digital voltmeter with 10-megohm input impedance (minimum), vacuum pump, vacuum gauge, fuel injector test lights and 6 jumper wires 6" long (one wire with female connectors at both ends, one wire with male connector at both ends and 4 wires with male and female connectors at opposite ends). A test light, rather than a voltmeter, must be used when indicated by a diagnostic chart.