Scan tool for new VP 4.3?

harringtondav

Commander
Joined
May 26, 2018
Messages
2,442
I love our new VP 4.3. With their five year warranty I shouldn't be worrying about diagnostics and repair...yet. But I'm a DIY freak and a control freak, and I want the ability to know the cause of potential, or real trouble, as well as monitor things. Then I can deal with it myself if it's simple, or have an intelligent conversation with the dealer tech if it's more complicated/warranty. My engine is the new GM 4.3 with high pressure direct injection, variable valve timing, evap canister, O2 sensing, etc.
I know many Mercruiser forum members use 'Rinda' tools for newer ECM engines. I assume a similar scan tool is available for my VP.
I'm looking for recommendations for a scan tool. Thanks in advance.
 

harringtondav

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May 26, 2018
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Nashville

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Sep 3, 2012
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Thanks. I assumed I need a Rinda, but I'm unsure which model. The link below looks close, but I'd like to know which model others are using.
I recall @achris once posted that he used his to reset a low oil pressure fault after changing his upside down Merc 4.3 filter and loosing prime. I'd like to have that interactive capability.
https://www.rinda.com/techmatepro/
The engine control is sophisticated. You’ll be better served with Diacom longer term, post warranty. But, it really depends on the objective. No “code reader” tells the user what to do, but there’s a good bit more diagnostics and information with Diacom. Typically helpful when working with current generation motors in particular. Just a perspective.
 

harringtondav

Commander
Joined
May 26, 2018
Messages
2,442
The engine control is sophisticated. You’ll be better served with Diacom longer term, post warranty. But, it really depends on the objective. No “code reader” tells the user what to do, but there’s a good bit more diagnostics and information with Diacom. Typically helpful when working with current generation motors in particular. Just a perspective.
Thanks,
I recall past forum posts and discussions about Diacom vs Techmate.
It seemed the trade off was convenience with the Techmate vs. less convenience but more capability with the laptop based Diacom.
My post warranty objective is diagnosing engine problems, and resolving with DIY repairs.
 
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