While every tool has its limitations, it’s crucial to understand them upfront. Let’s delve into the cons of this Dorman Scan Tool first.
One immediate drawback is the included leads. Designed for common, low-voltage automotive applications, they might fall short when dealing with higher voltage scenarios. As noted by experienced professionals, their capabilities are restricted by voltage limitations.
Alt text: Close-up of Dorman scan tool leads, highlighting their Y-shape and limited length, illustrating a potential constraint for users.
The physical design of the leads presents another challenge. Their Y-shape and short 20-inch total length, with sections barely extending beyond 10 inches, can be restrictive in practical use. This limited reach is arguably the tool’s weakest point. Unlike many oscilloscopes that utilize standard BNC connectors, this Dorman tool employs a less common and smaller MCX connector. Even the “fancy-lead” version, which includes a rare MCX-to-BNC adapter, raises concerns about the connector’s long-term durability, especially given the lack of apparent reinforcement. However, considering the tool’s affordable price, replacement remains a viable option should the connector fail.
It’s also important to note a potential point of confusion: While this Dorman scan tool is advertised as capable of handling up to 400V, achieving this requires a separate, high-voltage lead, not included in the standard kit. Interestingly, a kit with this high-voltage lead is available for only a slightly higher price. Opting for the standard, less expensive version might prove to be a false economy.
Acquiring a compatible high-voltage lead separately after purchase might be difficult and potentially cost-ineffective compared to buying the complete kit initially. Investing in the version with the high-voltage lead is strongly recommended. The ability to safely test higher voltage systems is invaluable. For instance, examining 120VAC electrical circuits in a workshop or home environment becomes feasible with the appropriate lead. Without it, attempting to analyze a 120VAC sine wave with the standard leads results in signal clipping, rendering waveform analysis impossible and highlighting a significant limitation. However, with the high-voltage lead, a clear and accurate 120VAC sine wave can be readily displayed on the scope.
Alt text: Display of a clean 120VAC sine wave on the Dorman scan tool screen, demonstrating the tool’s capability when used with a high voltage lead, ideal for diagnosing electrical issues.
Another notable limitation is the lack of data export functionality. The tool does not offer options for saving screenshots or recording data streams. Consequently, users are limited to manual note-taking or using a smartphone to capture screen images. At this price point, however, this omission seems like a reasonable compromise.
Finally, this Dorman scan tool is a single-channel oscilloscope. While this is explicitly stated and not inherently a flaw, professional technicians might find a dual-channel oscilloscope more beneficial. A two-channel scope expands diagnostic capabilities, enabling tasks like:
- Simultaneously checking CMP and CKP signals to diagnose potential timing belt issues.
- Conducting more informative relative compression tests. A single-channel scope can identify a cylinder with low compression, but a dual-channel scope can pinpoint the specific cylinder.
- Analyzing starting and charging system performance comprehensively in a single test.
Alt text: Dorman scan tool displaying a waveform from a relative compression test, showing the diagnostic potential for identifying engine mechanical issues with cylinder contribution analysis.
However, increased functionality typically comes with a higher price tag, both for the tool itself and for additional test leads. This Dorman scan tool is positioned as a single-channel, entry-level option, which is perfectly acceptable and understandable considering its affordability.
Despite these drawbacks, the advantages of the Dorman scan tool significantly outweigh its limitations, making it a valuable asset for automotive diagnostics. Let’s now explore the positive aspects in detail.
