Real diagnostic scan tool for TJ

[nondem]

I'm looking to buy a scan tool that will help me diagnose what I suspect is a cam sync issue - and potentially set it if I install a new one. So, I need one that is two-way and will read that data from my 2003 TJ. I keep running into the limitations of simple code readers so I've decided to go ahead and get a legit one that'll cover all my vehicles. I like the Autel MK900BT but per their coverage documentation Jeep Tj coverage only goes back to 2004. I suspect it'll work on the 2003 because they are nearly identical but who knows for sure? Anyone? If not, aside from buying a Jeep specific system, is there comparably priced scantool known to work for this? If not, who knows a specific scan tool that will work that is ~$500ish?

 

[Zorba]

Someone here says this one will do everything you need:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XK1P8ZT/?tag=wranglerorg-20

I don't know myself, just passing this on...

 

[DirtDawg]

Someone here says this one will do everything you need:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XK1P8ZT/?tag=wranglerorg-20

I don't know myself, just passing this on...

I own a Foxwell NT510 (BMW software version), purchased for my 2006 MINI R53 (1st gen supercharged) but IMO, Foxwell's interface is clunky compared to my OBDLink MX+ bluetooth dongle (TJ usage outlined elsewhere). Being corded, the NT510 is cumbersome to use in any situation except when the vehicle is stationary and not being driven. Just my $.02...

 

[Zorba]

I own a Foxwell NT510 (BMW software version), purchased for my 2006 MINI R53 (1st gen supercharged) but IMO, Foxwell's interface is clunky compared to my OBDLink MX+ bluetooth dongle (TJ usage outlined elsewhere). Being corded, the NT510 is cumbersome to use in any situation except when the vehicle is stationary and not being driven. Just my $.02...

I don't claim to know the ins and outs of the various scan tools - but wouldn't want one involving a PHOOOOOONNE!!

 

[BIGMike]

I own a Foxwell NT510 (BMW software version), purchased for my 2006 MINI R53 (1st gen supercharged) but IMO, Foxwell's interface is clunky compared to my OBDLink MX+ bluetooth dongle (TJ usage outlined elsewhere). Being corded, the NT510 is cumbersome to use in any situation except when the vehicle is stationary and not being driven. Just my $.02...

I have an MX+. What program/app do you like? Outlined elsewhere? Link?

 

[DirtDawg]

I have an MX+. What program/app do you like? Outlined elsewhere? Link?

I use OBDLink's proprietary app, despite their software being compatible with other maker's available apps. In my MINI R53, I created a few "dashboards" to monitor PIDs while driving, however for the Jeep TJ, simply used as a diagnostic tool for CEL codes (displayed or pending display). Same with my buddy for his TJ as outlined here.

We also like that this device can be left plugged into the OBD port, with that "sleeping" without (claimed) parasitic drain when the vehicle is turned off.

 

[nondem]

Thanks for the replies. I've found the Thinkcar 2 is supposed to support it. I've ordered one and will report back.

 

[nondem]

So...Thinkcar 2 dongle in-hand. It does appear to work but the result I'm seeing is confusing and doesn't match any of the youtubez I've seen.
The Special Function > Set Sync is there and when I open it - it looks like the pic below. I was thinking that it might actually work for this Jeep but just for a moment "something" flickered in the "In Range" box. Also, the "Distributor Setting" changes going up to 8 and 9 w/some throttle.
As I understand it to set the cam sensor timing I need to get that in-range number as close to zero as possible as I move the sync shaft.

Does anyone know what I'm seeing here? This just happened so I may find more to go on as I peruse google.

 

[glowell222]

I'm looking to buy a scan tool that will help me diagnose what I suspect is a cam sync issue - and potentially set it if I install a new one. So, I need one that is two-way and will read that data from my 2003 TJ. I keep running into the limitations of simple code readers so I've decided to go ahead and get a legit one that'll cover all my vehicles. I like the Autel MK900BT but per their coverage documentation Jeep Tj coverage only goes back to 2004. I suspect it'll work on the 2003 because they are nearly identical but who knows for sure? Anyone? If not, aside from buying a Jeep specific system, is there comparably priced scantool known to work for this? If not, who knows a specific scan tool that will work that is ~$500ish?

I have an Autel MX808 Maxicheck. It worked on my '98.

 

[nondem]

I "think" what this is telling me is that the cam sync is out by 7 degrees. If I adjust the OPDA it should drop down closer to zero and THEN something like "OK" or "Synced" will appear in that bottom textbox. Still digging but that seems logical... The question I have is how did it get off that much? I haven't ever loosened the holddown bolt since I've owned the jeep. I only replaced the sensor.

 

[nondem]

So, making this last update for some future person googling for help.
The Thinkcar 2 does do cam sync on a 2003 TJ. I adjusted mine to around zero and it does run better. Not sure what caused it to get 7+ degrees out by swapping this little sensor but I think that's what happened. Maybe the new sensor's hall effect switch is just a little more or less sensitive. They likely account for that w/the final adjustment at the factory.