Powerstroke 7.3, 1994-2003

Just about any OBD2 compatible scan tool performs well on this platform. This includes OE scan tools such as NGS, IDS, PDS, and WDS. It also includes all aftermarket scan tools such as Snap-On MT2500, Genisys, Auto Enginuity, etc. On these trucks I prefer the IDS or NGS. The only glitch is a few 1994-1995 trucks that are still out there that were built as OBD1 and have never been updated to OBD2. If you have an early truck, verify that it communicates through the 16 pin connector under the dash (verifying that it has been updated to OBD2) and does not still communicate through the OBD1 plug near the left hood hinge.

Powerstroke 6.0, 6.4

Ford has not released the bidirectional CAN code to the aftermarket, so there are NO aftermarket scan tools that have good bidirectional control abilities on CAN vehicles such as the 6.0 and 6.4 Powerstroke engines.
This means the factory IDS and PDS have a huge diagnostic advantage when working on 6.0 and 6.4 diesels. Using any aftermarket scan tool severely limits diagnostics when it comes to high pressure oil leaks, EGR diagnostics, cold misfire diagnostics, injector diagnostics, and etc.
If you are working on a lot of Fords, spend the money and buy an IDS!
Shop owners: The 2 years of unlimited reflashing with an IDS makes the ROI on this scan tool very fast. Not only is it the best tool on the market for Fords, it also pays for itself very quickly! Flashing only 2 vehicles a month makes the tool pay for itself in one year.

Motorcraft IDS/PDS:

Both the IDS and PDS use the Motorcraft VCM for communication. The difference is the IDS uses a laptop interface and the PDS uses a pocket PC interface. The IDS has more complete abilities and a larger screen. The PDS is more portable, has 90% of the IDS’s abilities but suffers with a small screen and slightly less diagnostic capabilities. Both can do module programming (reflashing), but the IDS does it much quicker. My suggestion is to buy the IDS as your main tool and a PDS if you need a second tool. For more information go to www.motorcraftservice.com and select Diagnostic Tool Support/IDS, from the left side of the screen or go to
http://www.motorcraftservice.com/vdirs/wds/diagnosticsites/IDS/MCS/default.asp

IDS Features:

Screen very easy to read
Uses the Motorcraft VCM and your laptop
Excellent graphing capabilities
Wonderful on Ford cars and Powerstrokes!
Evap test on command
Same as WDS in abilities
VCM: $2700 includes 2 years of automatic updates and reflashes, uses your laptop with XP
Ford only, no generic OBD2, no OBD1
Full Bi-Directional Abilities
Terrific high pressure fuel tests on the 6.4
Cranking compression test
Easy PCM Flashing with calibration files kept on the laptop hard drive
Special EGR testing- 8 step automated test!
Injector kill abilities on 6.0
Special turbo testing capabilities
Full PID list available that’s not available on aftermarket scanners
Talks to all modules
Automatically upgrades daily on the internet, both diagnostics and calibrations
Current model year ability, which you’ll never see in an aftermarket tool
You’re on a level playing field with the dealer!
Buy the very best tools ... and only cry once instead of every time you use them!

PDS Features:

Has most of the items as the IDS and better portability, BUT:

Smaller screen (more difficult graphing)
More time consuming reflashing
No cranking compression test (Important!)
Mode 6 is not converted from hexadecimal into English
May need reinstallation of software if the battery goes dead in the pocket PC

Service Manuals:

Most shops have Alldata, Mitchell On-Demand, Shopkey, etc. If you do not, you will need access to factory service literature from your local library or accessing www.Motorcraftservice.com. Using factory service manuals at Motorcraftservice.com costs only $10 per day and is strongly suggested if you have no other options. Purchasing OEM service manual discs from various sources is also suggested.

Other engine specific tools you’ll need for each engine family:

Ford Powerstroke 7.3:

Turbo Training’s Tips and Tricks book for Powerstroke 7.3
Rotunda tool kit is suggested, but not required
If you do not buy the Rotunda tool kit, I’d suggest buying an injector sleeve replacement kit from Rich Wengatz at Irontite, (440) 526-9017.
A known good FICM from a wrecking yard, about $100 (search www.car-part.com)
A standard Ford 104 in breakout box is suggested.

Ford Powerstroke 6.0:

Turbo Training’s Tips and Tricks book for Powerstroke 6.0
Test fitting, 2003-2004.25 with log style manifold: M 8x1.0, ¼” NPT OTC 303-766 ($65) MMTFP081018 from Malone Specialty, 440-255-4200 ($25)
Test fitting for ‘04.25 up, M12-1/4F8OHGS Parker fitting, or MMFP121514R (The same fitting is used for fuel pressure test on F- models) ¼” NPT female x 12mm-1.5 o-ring
105-R0107 Rotunda breakout box adapts your old 104 pin BOB to the new 122 pin setup. Cheap, too, under $300.
A known good FICM from a wrecking yard, about $100 (search www.car-part.com)
Rotunda Tool Kit TKIT-1994-FH/LTH is the 2-set red boxes of specialty tools. These are quite expensive from Rotunda, or can be purchased on Ebay relatively cheaply, $300-500.

Ford Powerstroke 6.4:

Turbo Training’s Tips and Tricks book for Powerstroke 6.4
The IDS is a mandatory tool when working on this truck.
Rotunda tool kit TKIT-2006SD-FLM is the 3-set red boxes of specialty tools. These can also be purchased from Rotunda or off of Ebay.
There is no breakout box available for the 6.4 engine.
Cab removal is needed for most major engine repairs on a 6.4, so a side post lift is suggested.