Scanning e38 codes?

[Zedn]

Hi All,

Anyone know of a software I can download to my laptop to read codes from the e38 ecu? I have a cable but need software. Don't want to edit, just check error codes.

I need to move my cobra Asap and it won't start. I started it a year ago without any problems. I didn't do much work on it this year as I have been renovating a house. I can't remember unplugging anything. Now when I go to start it the fuel pump is running, but no spark. I have checked voltage at Ecu, voltage at the coil packs and all fuses and relays and all are ok. Really sounds like crank sensor but I haven't touched it since it ran last year.

I'm thinking scanning codes is next check.

[Rebel1]

Don't know about software for a lap top but here are another two options.:

ScanGaugeII 3-in-1 Auto Computer (Improve your Mileage!)
UltraGauge OBDII Scan tool & Information Center

Both will show error codes and are capable of turning those off.

The scangauge was popular a couple of years back and is said to be totally compatible with Oz holdens.

The Ultra gauge is a more recently introduced unit.

[Gav]

It won't like twelve month old fuel.
Is the imobiliser on?

[gjkrv8]

Also check that you have 12v to the injectors. That's what tripped me up with mine. Cheers Gregg

[sambo]

I use Torque Pro (Android) which has a free 'Lite' version with some restrictions. You'll only see the generic codes but that could be enough to pinpoint the issue.

I had a problem with my L98 not firing due to voltage drop through the ignition barrel when cranking. Do you have a dedicated relay for the starter? You need a bit more than 12v to the ECU when turning it over, if I remember correctly.

[Zedn]

Thanks for the responses.

I put 20lt of fresh fuel in before trying to start it. It has power at coil banks and injectors.

Sambo, interesting what you say about voltage drop. I measured the cranking voltage at the ignition feed to the ecu and during crank it was dropping a fair bit. Can't remember how much, but I think down to 10volts. I have it wired with a relay for the start button that connects power supply to the starter solonoid. The power for the starter switch comes from the ignition switch, but the power the relay connects is constant.

Engine turns over fine. Fuel pump operates normally and is supplying pressure to the rails, Ecu is getting power for both switched and constant sections of its fuse block, no fuses are blown, checked all connectors and earth, there is power at the coil bank plugs and injector plugs.

Everything to me points to crank or cam sensor. I want to scan before just replacing parts. I have now moved the car by trailer so rush is over. I think I will buy a scanner and see if it shows cranking rpm. That will tell me if the crank sensor works. I haven't got my tacho working yet or that would have told me also.

Might try run another power wire to the ecu and see if it helps

[sambo]

Where's that Sideshow bloke when you need him?

[deano59]

Originally Posted by sambo

Where's that Sideshow bloke when you need him?

hopefully making my wiring loom :-)