The quest to diagnose car problems often leads down a rabbit hole of technical manuals and cryptic codes. For owners of 1997 Ford vehicles, understanding the intricacies of the Powertrain Control/Emission Diagnostic (PC/ED) system and leveraging the capabilities of a scan tool, like the Craftsman diagnostic scan tool, are crucial. This article delves into the world of Ford’s self-test procedures, specifically focusing on how to initiate and interpret these tests potentially with a tool like the Craftsman 20890.
Decoding Ford’s Self-Test Procedures
The 1997 Ford PC/ED manual outlines a specific procedure for initiating the Key On Engine Running (KOER) self-test. This involves entering a precise sequence of four alphanumeric strings using a compatible scan tool:
08,3E,22,C4103382,,9E00445443287329208042208062208
082A851FF,34
07,32,22FF,C410220202,,9E00434E54208061A9610008,F2
06,32,22,C410328200,,9E0057414954208081A1816107,68
05,32,22,C4103182,,9E005354415254208081A1810006,5DDuring the test, cycling various switches, like the brake, overdrive, four-wheel drive low, and power steering pressure switch, if equipped, is necessary. This process allows the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to perform a comprehensive system check.
Upon completion, the PCM communicates the results to the scan tool, indicating whether Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) were stored. Unlike earlier EEC-IV systems that relied on blinking lights, this system provides a more direct and user-friendly approach to diagnostics.
Generic Scan Tools and Ford’s Enhanced Diagnostics
Generic scan tools may have limitations when interfacing with Ford’s systems. While they might retrieve emission-related “continuous DTCs” (similar to pending DTCs), they often lack the capability to perform KOEO (Key On Engine Off) and KOER tests or access Ford-specific data points.
The PC/ED manual, however, provides alternative sequences for accessing all continuous DTCs using a generic scan tool, expanding its diagnostic capabilities beyond emission codes. This opens possibilities for using tools like the Craftsman diagnostic scan tool 20890 to retrieve a broader range of diagnostic information.
Beyond Basic Diagnostics: Output Test Mode and Multiple Communication Protocols
Ford’s system also features an “output test mode,” enabling a compatible scan tool to command the PCM to activate specific components, like the electric fan or vacuum solenoid valves, for testing purposes. This functionality facilitates more in-depth troubleshooting and component verification.
Furthermore, the 1997 Ford utilizes multiple communication protocols. While the engine and transmission PCM communicate via J1850 VPW, other modules, such as the airbag, body computer, and ABS, use the ISO9141 protocol. Ideally, a comprehensive scan tool should support both protocols to diagnose issues across all vehicle systems. This highlights the need for a versatile tool capable of handling the complexities of Ford’s diagnostic systems.
Understanding these intricacies empowers Ford owners to delve deeper into diagnosing and resolving vehicle issues. Accessing the PC/ED manual and utilizing a capable scan tool, potentially the Craftsman diagnostic scan tool 20890, unlock the secrets hidden within the vehicle’s self-test procedures and pave the way for effective repairs.
