Anyone used a code scanner on a '93 XJ?

[Dragonslayer]

I was wondering if anyone out there uses a Code Scanner (ie: Actron, OTC
Mindreader, etc.) to retrieve and diagnose error codes on a '93 XJ, or similar?

This year model car uses the DRB II compliant system - but the only scanners
I can find these days are the OBD I/OBD II type readers. Is it any better
than using the "On-Off-On-Off-On" method?

Some manufacturers claim that their OBD II scan tool will work on '90-'95
Chryslers...but I was wondering if anyone out there has successfully used
one on their car? ....and was the expense worth it?

Thanks, all.

 

[jchampoux]

In general I believe that OBD II readers will only read 95 and later.

I have a 96 and I use the device and software from:
http://obddiagnostics.com/index.html
The device was $88 and the software was free. I run it on an old compaq laptop that I got off ebay for $60.
Its pretty amazing the amount of info that you can retreive.

 

[Wiley Coyote]

A buddy used a scan tool on his ’90 XJ with success. I don’t know the brand name (what ever the Auto Hobby Shop is using), but it was an OBD II reader that had the extra cables to read OBD I stuff. I believe he used the cable that was marked for an early model Chrysler vehicle. It worked, but from what he said it was a pain in the butt. His system doesn’t “store” codes so he had to wait for the error to happen in real time. My '91 is OBD I, but it does store codes so I'm assuming that is the cut off years.