Are you looking for a robust diagnostic tool for your Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle? For enthusiasts and professionals working with older Chrysler models, the Chrysler DRB III diagnostic scan tool stands out as a significant piece of equipment. Originally, tools like the DRB II and MDS (Mopar Diagnostic System) caught attention for their potential in tuning older vehicles, such as a 1988 Dakota, without PCM replacement. These systems, particularly the DRB III, offer a deeper level of diagnostic capability than generic OBD-II scanners, making them invaluable for specific tasks and older vehicle systems.
Information regarding the functionality of these Chrysler-specific tools can be scattered. This article aims to consolidate information about the DRB II, DRB III, and MDS, with a focus on the capabilities and relevance of the Chrysler DRB III diagnostic scan tool for today’s automotive technicians and enthusiasts.
Exploring the Capabilities of DRB II and DRB III
Based on available resources, including forum discussions, MasterTech videos, and the DRB III Features and Menus Manual, the DRB II and DRB III offer a range of advanced functionalities beyond basic OBD code reading. Here’s a summary of their key capabilities:
- Enhanced Code Reading and Diagnostics: Beyond generic OBD codes, these tools can read detailed fault codes specific to Chrysler systems, providing descriptions and enabling various engine tests.
- Transmission Diagnostics: Access transmission output logs and perform specific transmission tests, crucial for diagnosing complex transmission issues.
- Live Data Streaming: Monitor real-time sensor data such as air/fuel ratio and engine RPM, allowing for in-depth analysis of engine performance.
- ABS Brake Bleeding: Facilitate brake bleeding procedures on vehicles equipped with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), ensuring proper system function.
- PCM/TCM Reflashing: With the appropriate flash programming tool, these devices can reflash the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM), essential for software updates and tuning.
- Digital Multimeter (DRB III Exclusive): The DRB III uniquely integrates a Digital Volt/Ohmmeter/Digital Multimeter (DVOM/DMM), expanding its diagnostic hardware capabilities.
- Odometer Reprogramming (Potentially): Some sources suggest the ability to reprogram odometers on digital gauge clusters, although this may require specific procedures and is subject to legal restrictions.
In essence, the DRB II and DRB III are designed to significantly enhance a technician’s ability to diagnose and repair Chrysler vehicles by offering advanced control, testing features, and detailed fault code information.
DRB Compatibility, Support Cards, and Evolution
Understanding the compatibility and evolution of the DRB series is crucial for anyone considering using these tools.
DRB Series Evolution:
- DRB I (Miller C-4805): The predecessor to the DRB II, information on the DRB I is less readily available, but it represents the earliest generation of Chrysler diagnostic tools.
- DRB II: A significant step forward, the DRB II requires support cards for vehicle compatibility as it lacks onboard memory.
- DRB III: Building on the DRB II, the DRB III improved upon its predecessor by including onboard memory and broader compatibility through support cards. It is also backward compatible with DRB II applications with the correct cards.
- wiTECH: The successor to the DRB III, wiTECH systems maintain DRB III compatibility through emulation while offering expanded capabilities for newer vehicles.
DRB III Support Cards and Compatibility:
The DRB III relies on support cards to function with different vehicle model years and systems. According to the 2007 DRB III Features and Menus Manual, the following support cards were available:
- SuperCard1: Primarily for 1983-1993 models.
- SuperCard2: Covering 1994-1997 models, 1998-2000 FJ models, and including generic scan tool software and PEP Utilities.
- ST22 Card: For 2001-2005 model years.
- Crossfire Card: Specifically for 2004-2006 Chrysler Crossfire models.
- Sprinter Card: For 2003-2006 Sprinter vehicles.
While the DRB III has onboard memory, support cards are generally necessary to extend its compatibility to different Chrysler vehicle eras.
Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS)
The Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS) is another piece of Chrysler diagnostic equipment that is often mentioned alongside the DRB tools. While specific details on how MDS integrates with DRB II or DRB III are still being researched, it is understood that MDS represents a more advanced software and potentially hardware system designed to work in conjunction with these scan tools. Like the DRB support cards, MDS also requires software updates to maintain compatibility with newer vehicles.
DRB Alternatives and Modern Solutions
For those seeking alternatives to the DRB series, the SnapOn MT2500 has been suggested as a potential option, offering broader manufacturer coverage beyond just Chrysler vehicles. However, verification is needed to confirm if the MT2500 replicates all the specific functionalities of the DRB tools for Chrysler vehicles.
The modern successor to the DRB III is the wiTECH system, which, as mentioned, maintains backward compatibility with DRB III functions while providing support for contemporary Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models. For workshops servicing a wide range of vehicles, or those primarily working on newer Chrysler vehicles, wiTECH or advanced aftermarket scan tools might be more practical solutions. However, for dedicated enthusiasts or specialists focusing on pre-OBD-II and early OBD-II Chrysler vehicles, the DRB series, especially the DRB III, remains a highly valuable and capable diagnostic tool.
Resources for Further Learning
To delve deeper into the world of Chrysler diagnostic tools, here are some valuable resources:
- MasterTech Videos: Chrysler produced MasterTech training videos in the 1990s that cover topics like the 42LE A606 Automatic Transmission and OBD2/DRBIII systems, offering practical insights into using these tools.
- DRB III Features and Menus Manual: A direct resource for understanding the functions and operation of the DRB III.
- Chrysler Fault Codes Lists: Resources like Allpar provide lists and descriptions of Chrysler fault codes from the 1980s and 1990s, which are highly relevant when using DRB tools.
- DRB Emulation and Teardown Articles: Online articles discuss DRB III emulation in modern systems and even hardware teardowns of DRB II units, providing technical depth.
Conclusion
The Chrysler DRB III diagnostic scan tool is a specialized and powerful tool for diagnosing and servicing a wide range of Chrysler vehicles, particularly those from the 1980s through the early 2000s. While newer systems like wiTECH offer broader capabilities and modern vehicle support, the DRB III remains a cornerstone for enthusiasts and professionals working with older Mopar vehicles. Understanding its functions, compatibility, and place in the evolution of Chrysler diagnostic tools is essential for anyone seeking to maintain and repair these classic vehicles effectively. For those interested in delving deeper into automotive diagnostics, exploring the DRB III and its related systems offers a fascinating look into the technology that empowered vehicle servicing in its era.
