diagnostic help

[hydrohank]

I am lookin to buy a outboard diagnostic scan tool. which to buy ...cdi meds or sierra stat or the api scan tool .any one use any of these systems. need advice real bad .don't want to buy junk.

[seahorse]

I've tried both the CDI and the Sierra.

I use the CDI system as it is easier and covers more makes of engines. The dashboard display is fantastic, especially if you show the customer, there is less chance of his balking at your bill.

[Bullet89]

The CDI works great. The only problem I have with it is when working on Verados and 75/90/115 L4NAs, it does not show the FSM float switch position. Oh and the new 150/200 non Verado four strokes.

[hydrohank]

thanks for the feedback . they all are a big investment just wanted to get my money worth

[b0atguy]

Neither ............ get a Rinda System .
I use a Rinda Diacom on a dedicated Panasonic Toughbook .........love it.
There is a reason Merc has used Rinda Tech for years.
Plus its more bang for your buck than the other systems.

http://www.rinda.com/marine/marinemenu.htm

[seahorse]

Rinda makes a great tester, but it is limited in what motors it can be used on. If you are only Merc oriented, then no problem. But if you may want to scan other outboards and stern drives, get the CDI version as you can add different modules as your requirements change.

It all depends on what you work on.