[F150RTR]

Ok, what apps is everyone using for maintenance, performance, or however else you interface with your truck's computer? What are their pros/cons?

Thanks, Rob

 

[Boatwaco]

I use a OBDLINK MX+ Bluetooth to connect to FORScan Lite or OBDLink apps on my iPhone.
I use the OBDLINK EX cable to connect to my Windows Laptop with FORScan (full 1 year paid license that I was goaded into buying. And I was happy to do so)

 

[snakebitten]

For monitoring Pids/parameters:
OBDLink MX+ adapter with OBDLink Android app

For pulling codes and adjusting AsBuilt values:
OBDLink EX USB adapter and Forscan

For scanning truck and applying Fords official software updates to various modules:
Drew Technology Mongoose OBD adapter and Motorcraft FDRS software. (J2534 compatible)

I am still pretty weak and unversed in troubleshooting with data logging. I would like to learn and be proficient with Forscan or IDS-like tools for real-time troubleshooting.

 

[TMcQ150]

I needed someone to ask this. Had SCT livewire and now have the livernois tuner. I can't figure out how to do anything useful on that software. I would rant for an hour if I tried to explain it. Anyone with the mycalibrator software have the same experience or any tips? I am wondering if I can plug my old livewire into the new truck with the livernois tune just to datalog, anyone done this? I love the SCT software and how easy it us to select and log pids on the computer

 

[F150RTR]

I needed someone to ask this. Had SCT livewire and now have the livernois tuner. I can't figure out how to do anything useful on that software. I would rant for an hour if I tried to explain it. Anyone with the mycalibrator software have the same experience or any tips? I am wondering if I can plug my old livewire into the new truck with the livernois tune just to datalog, anyone done this? I love the SCT software and how easy it us to select and log pids on the computer

I'm in the same boat - have little to no real idea how to use these things. I have a basic code reader, and I have the SCT X4, but my experience uploading the tune was less than ideal, although it did eventually upload and I have had no problems with the tune. I just need to learn more about these programs/apps. I believe Forscan is Ford-specific; do any of these items work with other brands of vehicles?

 

[snakebitten]

Why not data log with Forscan?

 

[TMcQ150]

I tried that and had issues, maybe I should revisit, but I will say, trying to log a 0-60 with an open laptop did not go well.....seems that acceleration is a bit.... violent. Today I opened my tailgate and my cooler was upside down in the bed, lol

 

[motorhead1991]

Put the laptop in the passenger seat. I've yet to dump mine 😁

For monitoring Pids/parameters:
OBDLink MX+ adapter with OBDLink Android app

For pulling codes and adjusting AsBuilt values:
OBDLink EX USB adapter and Forscan

For scanning truck and applying Fords official software updates to various modules:
Drew Technology Mongoose OBD adapter and Motorcraft FDRS software. (J2534 compatible)

I am still pretty weak and unversed in troubleshooting with data logging. I would like to learn and be proficient with Forscan or IDS-like tools for real-time troubleshooting.

Forscan works with the Mongoose too, FYI. I use it all the time.

I don't datalog with Forscan, since it's scope is limited compared to the tuning software. I can't watch things like OAR or the mapped points.

 

[Upshifter]

Like others I use OBD MX+ Bluetooth adapter and the OBDLink iOS app to pull codes and run gauges.

But I also use it with Forscan & my windows laptop to apply mods.
I notice @snakebitten and @Boatwaco use a seperate OBDLink EX cable to connect laptop Forscan, am I reading that right?

Is there risks to connecting the laptop via Bluetooth that i just have been lucky enough to avoid?

I have an Edge CS3 and an SCT BDX also, but those are only for applying tunes, and logging in the case o the BDX. Again, I see most folks log with their laptop, but my tuner never complained for lack of bitrate / data in the logs I gave him via the BDS?

 

[Boatwaco]

Is there risks to connecting the laptop via Bluetooth that i just have been lucky enough to avoid?

I use a cable to my laptop as its Bluetooth connection history is “not great”. Even headsets drop connection. So I use a cable to reduce my risk of a dropped connection in the middle of making any changes in Forscan.

 

[snakebitten]

Yea, with Forscan I'm looking for a faster refresh rate than the Bluetooth adapter provides.
And as @motorhead1991 pointed out, I actually no longer use the OBDLink USB dongle for Forscan since the Mongoose, which was necessary for FDRS, also works with Forscan.

I listed it the way I did above so that no one would think it necessary to purchase a $500 adapter for Forscan.

 

[mass-hole]

I have an OBDLink MX+ and EX as well but I also just picked up a used MS Surface Go 2 and loaded HPTuners on it. I started data logging with this while towing and its quite nice with the big screen.

I also run Forscan on it as well as my Toyota tuning software.

 

[snakebitten]

Unfortunately, we are still waiting for HPTuners to crack the Gen14

I'm guessing that they aren't ignoring it. And I suspect they have probably already gained similar access to what Livernoise and SCT have?

If so, it's just a matter of time.....
I would be interested in using their monitoring capabilities whether I tuned the truck or not. @mass-hole That Surface Go is a nice approach! I think that's the ultimate for logging and monitoring!

Although I wish Microsoft (or Dell/HP/Lenovo) would release an even smaller form factor.

 

[mass-hole]

Unfortunately, we are still waiting for HPTuners to crack the Gen14

I'm guessing that they aren't ignoring it. And I suspect they have probably already gained similar access to what Livernoise and SCT have?

If so, it's just a matter of time.....
I would be interested in using their monitoring capabilities whether I tuned the truck or not. @mass-hole That Surface Go is a nice approach! I think that's the ultimate for logging and monitoring!

Although I wish Microsoft (or Dell/HP/Lenovo) would release an even smaller form factor.

The VCM scanner interface is kinda clumsy but once you have it setup its nice. And being able to watch fuel, spark and torque sources while towing is nice. I can drop a gear as soon as fuel source goes to Exhaust temperature

Forscan on a phone is still a solid setup though

 

[NoTraxx]

OBDLink MX+ displayed on the phone.
Still looking for a few PIDs though.

 

[snakebitten]

Which pids?
I have the formula for OAR if you are looking.
I don't have oil pressure. I've looked pretty diligently.

Full Forscan has it
Ngauge (HPTuners) has it.
But I can't find anyone who can decrypt it

 

[motorhead1991]

I can probably find it 👀

 

[snakebitten]

You be THE MAN 👍😁

 

[NoTraxx]

Looking for intercooler active grille shutter A module position.
I found the other one. Active grille shutter b module position.

 

[F150RTR]

So Forscan for IOS - which bluetooth device is best?