diagnostic / troubleshooting code readers (worth it?)

[p7387]

any opinions on diagnostic / troubleshooting code readers, are they worth getting?
if so any good particular ones?

my application is a 87 r10 305 tbi

thanks

[zieg85]

IMO for the OBD 1, jump your terminals and read the codes.  Once you know the codes with the internet and different forums I have found all the answers so far.  My $.02

[p7387]

thanks zeig

im still on the learning curve. i have the general chevy truck/gmc manual that covers the wide range of years up to 87, in there i see the section that relates the number of times/patterns of the check engine light blinking to certain codes. is that what you are referring to?

[VileZambonie]

Do you have a smart phone or an iPad?

[p7387]

unfortunately no, is there an "app" for that?

[p7387]

is the diagnostic connector that plug that looks sort of like a old parallel printer plug under the dash on the drivers side? and are the A/B terminals clearly marked to avoid jumping the wrong terminals?

[bd]

Image courtesy VileZambonie...

[VileZambonie]

Yes there is an app for that. In fact anyone who has an iPad or smart phone be it iPhone or Android you have a plethora of choices starting at $15 to have scan tool capability.

[Captkaos]

For an 87, get a used Tech 1 or use winALDL and a obd cable..  Or if you just want the codes, a paper clip plugged in to the A an B terminal of the ALDL...