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OBD Engine Diagnostics
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Author:  darth [ Tue Jan 19, 2010 3:42 pm ]
Post subject:  OBD Engine Diagnostics
Hello Lovely Taxi Drivers,

Does anyone know anything about using a laptop to connect to the engine on a TXII (Ford)? I don't know for sure if my '55 plate TXII is using the OBDII standard or not! Anyone know how I can find out?

Have tried connecting with a OBD/USB lead to the diagnostics software, but everything I try can see the lead but can't seem to communicate. Could be that my taxi is pre OBDII standard!

Help would be appreciated.
Author:  Stinky Pete [ Tue Jan 19, 2010 5:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: OBD Engine Diagnostics
darth wrote:
Hello Lovely Taxi Drivers,

Does anyone know anything about using a laptop to connect to the engine on a TXII (Ford)? I don't know for sure if my '55 plate TXII is using the OBDII standard or not! Anyone know how I can find out?

Have tried connecting with a OBD/USB lead to the diagnostics software, but everything I try can see the lead but can't seem to communicate. Could be that my taxi is pre OBDII standard!

Help would be appreciated.


There are several reasons why the computer may not talk` to the serial output of the interface.

a. The COM port maybe incorrectly set, correct settings are:

Bits per second: 9600
Data bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop bits: 1

b. If using a USB to serial converter not all are compatible check they are OK regarding operating system, RAM size etc.

c. Some laptops have an Ir port this may need to be disabled to avoid conflict between ports
Author:  grandad [ Tue Jan 19, 2010 7:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Why not get an OBD II reader. They are very reasonable on ebay. I bought one a couple of months ago.
Author:  darth [ Wed Jan 20, 2010 1:31 am ]
Post subject: 
Now that I know that there are replies, I'll expand... Firstly; Stinky Pete. I believe there's no problem with the laptops talking to the cable/interface. The port etc. is set correctly (according to the instructions that came with it): I know this as the software I tried with my Mac actually shows the ELM chip details of the cable, and the PC software shows similar details. Both state (and in particular the Mac) that the cable/interface is unable to talk to the vehicle. I also tried (on the PC) changing various settings; just in case!

There's no USB convertor as the cable is USB; with the ELM interpreter chip. Both the Mac and PC have the drivers installed to connect to the cable/interface etc.

The problem I'm thinking is - as originally asked - that my engine being late '05 may be pre-OBDII; therefore (and correct me if I'm wrong, please) an OBDII cable/interface may not work - as I believe it's a different standard.

As well as this, it seems there are 3 different protocols!

I'm trying to find out when the Ford engine became OBDII as I believe it - and the taxi - may be classed as 'commercial' and in europe had to conform during 2005. LTi may well have fitted an engine they purchased up to 12 months prior to building the cab!

Grandad... I'm aware of the readers; and yes they are quite cheap; but using a laptop offers additional functions over the hand held device. A bit like the days when we used a PC with DOS vs. Windows 3.1! :-)
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