IHfarmboy Posted April 23, 2012 Share Posted April 23, 2012 Hi all, Im new to this forum. My dad just bought our 3rd Mack and we would like to get diagnostic software so we can work on them. We have a 04 Vision, 01 CH, and a 98 CH. Is there any software that will work on all three trucks and what kind of data cable will I need? I have looked around the internet and sent some emails asking what trucks they will work on, but they only say they work on some Macks but not sure which ones. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/ Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 You can get any generic diagnostic reader for heavy duty engines (many on the net) and you can read diagnostic fault codes with them but I guess your Vision already displays diagnostic messages on the dash. A Prolink (www.nexiq.com) can read fault codes, run component and engine tests and also gives you the ability to program the vehicle and engine computers on VMAC III chassis (program chassis pre-november 2003). You can find a used Prolink 9000 on ebay or buy one of the new Graphiq units. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115818 Share on other sites More sharing options...
IHfarmboy Posted April 24, 2012 Author Share Posted April 24, 2012 Does the Prolink come with the software to read, test, and program Macks or do I have to buy the software separetly? Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115858 Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 Software modules are sold individually per OEM manufacturer or application. You would be needing the VMAC III step 8 software. It comes on a pcmcia card that also fits into another cartridge adapter that nexiq sells. You can test (engine brake test, chassis dyno, cylinder balance, cylinder cut-out e.t.c) and reprogram (road speed, engine shutdown parameters, PTO options e.t.c) anything from 1998 but you cannot reprogram chassis built after I think November 3 2003, you can only test on those chassis. To reprogram your '04 Vision you might need to get the VCADS or PTT software and adapters from a Mack dealer. Search ebay, I'm sure you'll find what you're looking for. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115860 Share on other sites More sharing options...
IHfarmboy Posted April 24, 2012 Author Share Posted April 24, 2012 I found this one on ebay, its a vcads, but it doesnt say what model Macks it works on. http://www.ebay.com/itm/320871202478?_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649&item=320871202478&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK:MEWAX:IT&vxp=mtrDo you know if it will work on all of our trucks? And do I still have to get the software for it? Our 04 and the 01 have the same Renualt engine except the 04 has EGR. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115867 Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 Seen..never used VCAD before, only prolink but I think that looks like a complete unit (Data link/Signal converter, 6/9 pin Deutsch cable, RS232 cable and software on CD). If it's what it's advertised as, yes It should work for all your ETECH chassis including programming your '04 Vision. You have to connect it to a PC though, I think it also has a USB cable so you can use it on a laptop too. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115872 Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 Just remembered....with VCADS I think the software has to be registered and licensed (to qualify for updates), I cant remember if it's a lifetime license or renewed yearly, important you find out Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115873 Share on other sites More sharing options...
IHfarmboy Posted April 24, 2012 Author Share Posted April 24, 2012 (edited) I'll have to find that out, thanks. Do either the prolink or the vcads let you change engine parameters (like increase fueling)? Edited April 24, 2012 by IHfarmboy Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115874 Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 24, 2012 Share Posted April 24, 2012 No, at least not the customer version of VCADS. The dealer version of the software can be used to download horsepower upgrades and injector maps but not the customer version. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-115875 Share on other sites More sharing options...
modblaster Posted April 26, 2012 Share Posted April 26, 2012 No, at least not the customer version of VCADS. The dealer version of the software can be used to download horsepower upgrades and injector maps but not the customer version.aAre you sure? because my dealer cannot upgrade horsepower on my motor e-tech! ... he said than was mack who sending the software for upgrade (350 to 460) Quote HIGH TORQUE INJECTORS 20% Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-116201 Share on other sites More sharing options...
KirikiriMack Posted April 27, 2012 Share Posted April 27, 2012 Yeah, Mack sends the file to the dealer after they receive a request with the vehicle vin. The dealer then reprograms your engine computer with the new upgrade file. Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-116292 Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nickdieselz Posted October 7 Share Posted October 7 I recommend this laptop, we use it all the time at my shop and it works great. No complaints and works on every truck that comes in, would recommend you look into it. https://dieselscanners.com/products/diesel-diagnostic-laptop-scanner-tuner-truck-repair Quote Link to comment https://www.bigmacktrucks.com/topic/24670-diagnostic-software/#findComment-559630 Share on other sites More sharing options...
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