Actron CP9110 User Manual

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CP9110

Table of Contents

FULL ONE (1) YEAR WARRANTY

Actron Manufacturing Company, 15825 Industrial Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio 44135, warrants to the user that this unit will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from the date of original purchase.

Any unit that fails within this period will be repaired or replaced at Actron’s option and without charge when returned to the Factory. Actron requests that a copy of the original, dated sales receipt be returned with the unit to determine if the warranty period is still in effect.

This warranty does not apply to damages caused by accident, alterations, or improper or unreasonable use.

ACTRON MANUFACTURING COMPANY DISCLAIMS ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY WRITTEN WARRANTY ON THE UNIT.

15825 Industrial Parkway

Cleveland, Ohio 44135

U.S.A.

Toll free U.S.: (800) 228-7667

0002-002-2186

Vehicle Service Information ............. 2

Safety Precautions ............................ 3

Section 1: Welcome to The Scan Tool ..

1-1 Features ........................................ 4

1-2 The scan tool................................. 5

1-3 What You Get................................ 6

1-4 Cartridge and Installation ..............6

1-5 Cables and Adapters.....................7

1-6 Operating the scan tool ................. 9

• Powering-up the scan tool ....... 9

• Keyboard .................................. 9

• Display.................................... 10

• Lists, Menus, & Questions ..... 10

• Other Functions & Keys ......... 11

1-7 Scan Tool Setup..........................12

Section 2: Computer Vehicle Basics..

2-1 Basics of Computer-

Controlled Cars ........................ 13

2-2 About Codes................................16

2-3 When to Read Codes.................. 17

Section 3: Help and Troubleshooting

Tips....................................19

3-1 Tool Problems ............................. 19

3-2 Car Problems ..............................20

3-3 Scan Tool Self-Tests................... 20

• Display Test ........................... 21

• Keyboard Test........................ 21

• Memory Test .......................... 21

Section 4: How to Order

Accessories ......................22

4-1 Where to Buy?.............................22

4-2 Call Actron Direct ........................ 23

4-3 E-Mail & Internet address ........... 23

Section 5:

Appendix ...........................24

Glossary of Terms ............................. 24

Vehicle Service Information

The following is a list of publishers who have manuals containing electronic engine control diagnostic information. Some manuals may be available at auto parts stores or your local public library. For others, you need to write for availability and pricing, specifying the make, model and year of your vehicle.

Vehicle Service Manuals:

Chilton Book Company

Chilton Way Radnor, PA 19089

Haynes Publications

861 Lawrence Drive Newbury Park, CA 91320

Cordura Publications

Mitchell Manuals, Inc. Post Office Box 26260 San Diego, CA 92126

Motor’s Auto Repair Manual

Hearst Company 250 W. 55th Street New York, NY 10019

Suitable manuals have titles such as: “Electronic Engine Controls” “Fuel Injection and Feedback Carbure-

tors” “Fuel Injection and Electronic Engine

Controls” “Emissions Control Manual” . . . or similar titles

Vehicle Service Manuals from General Motors Corporation:

Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GEO, GMC, Oldsmobile, & Pontiac

Helm Incorporated Post Office Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207

Saturn

Adistra Corporation c/o Saturn Publications 101 Union St. Post Office Box 1000 Plymouth, MI 48170

Vehicle Service Manuals from Ford Motor Company:

Ford, Lincoln, & Mercury

Ford Publication Department Helm Incorporated Post Office Box 07150 Detroit, MI 48207

Vehicle Service Manuals from Chrysler Corporation:

Chrysler, Plymouth, & Dodge

Chrysler Motors Service Training 26001 Lawrence Avenue Center Line, MI 48015

General Safety Guidelines to Follow

When Working on Vehicles

To prevent accidents that could result in serious injury and/or damage to your vehicle or test equipment, carefully follow these safety rules and test procedures at all times when working on vehicles:

• Always wear approved eye protection.

• Always operate the vehicle in a

well-ventilated area. Do not inhale exhaust gases — they are very poisonous!

• Always keep yourself, tools and test

equipment away from all moving or hot engine parts.

• Always make sure the vehicle is in

Park (Automatic transmission) or neutral (manual transmission) and that the parking brake is firmly set. Block the drive wheels.

• Never lay tools on vehicle battery.

You may short the terminals together causing harm to yourself, the tools or the battery.

• Never use scan tool if its internal

circuitry has been exposed to any liquids. This includes the scan tool and Application Cartridges.

• Never smoke or have open flames

near vehicle. Vapors from gasoline and charging battery are highly flammable and explosive.

• Never leave vehicle unattended while running tests.

• Always keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/electrical/chemical fires handy.

• Always use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor cap, ignition wires, and spark plugs. These components contain high voltage when the engine is running.

• When performing a road test, never operate the scan tool alone while driving the vehicle. Always have one person drive the vehicle while an assistant operates the scan tool.

• Always turn ignition key OFF when connecting or disconnecting electrical components, unless otherwise instructed.

• Always follow vehicle manufacturer’s warnings, cautions and service procedures.

All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest information available from industry sources at the time of publication. No warranty (expressed or implied) can be made for its accuracy or completeness, nor is any responsibility assumed by Actron Manufacturing Co. or anyone connected with it for loss or damages suffered through reliance on any information contained in this manual or misuse of accompanying product. Actron Manufacturing Co. reserves the right to make changes at any time to this manual or accompanying product without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes.

CAUTION:

Some vehicles are equipped with safety air bags. You service manual cautions when working around the air bag components or wiring. If the cautions are not followed, the air bag may open up unexpectedly, resulting in personal injury. Note that the air bag can still open up several minutes after the ignition key is off (or even if the vehicle battery is disconnected) because of a special energy reserve module.

must

follow vehicle

Section 1: Welcome to the Scan Tool – Basics

1-1 Actron Scan Tool Features

The Actron scan tool has many features that you would expect in scan tools

Scan Tool & Application Cartridge

Vehicle Manufacturer Application Cartridges

The manufacturer-specific Application Cartridges offer a universal approach in changing software as vehicle technology changes. Actron’s separate cartridge and cable system lets you add vehicle applications to meet your needs.

Cartridge Systems:

GM Cartridge 1984-1995 Ford Cartridge 1984-1995 Chrysler Cartridge 1989-1995 OBD II 1996-up

used by the professionals:

• Large 4 line x 20 character LCD display

• High-impact plastic case

• Durable, easy to use keyboard

• Removable vehicle cable adapter

• Removable power cable

1984-1995

1-2 The Scan Tool

Actron’s scan tool was developed by experts in the automotive service industry to help you diagnose today’s vehicles and assist you in trouble-shooting procedures. Computer-controlled vehicles have a network of sensors that creates a series of inputs to the engine computer. The computer interprets these inputs and sends outputs (commands) back to the network to control air, fuel, vacuum, spark and other critical functions. When a problem occurs, the computer will store a record of the event, and take corrective action to adjust the circuit at fault. If the circuit does not respond, or the problem cannot be corrected, a trouble code is stored in the computer’s memory. In some cases, the Check Engine light may also be activated. The scan tool will allow you to monitor these vehicle events for trouble-shooting and diagnosis, and to read codes from the computer’s memory to pinpoint problem areas.

The scan tool uses state-of-the-art 16 “bit” microprocessor technology and has twice the computing power of some scan tools costing thousands of dollars! The scan tool is programmed to interpret the computer signals and provide you with a “real time” readout of vehicle data. More importantly, the software programs are written to provide you with detailed, full-screen readouts of all data. In addition, the Code

Lookup feature allows you to reference code descriptions without having to page through an instruction manual.

When the scan tool is connected to the data connector, a communication link is established, allowing the scan tool and the vehicle’s on-board computer to exchange information. The way in which this information is exchanged is referred to as a data stream.

As you use the scan tool, you will become more proficient in trouble-shooting vehicles using the detailed help messages and code description information. Actron will also help you become skilled in using the scan tool for more than just “scanning” the vehicle data list. We will show you many other uses that will expand your diagnostic limits by using the information contained in the application manuals that come with your Application Cartridge. Nostart, driveability, and emission problems will be easier to diagnose than ever before.

Professional-Style Adapter Cables:

GM ALDL — 12 Pin Ford EEC-IV/MCU — 7 Pin Chrysler SCI — 6 Pin

1984-1995

FORD

Optional Cable Adapters:

Chrysler CCD / LH – 6 Pin Ford/Mazda MECS – 6 Pin GM J1962-OBD-II – 16 Pin Ford J1962-OBD-II – 16 Pin Chrysler J1962-OBD-II – 16 Pin

1989-1995

CHRYSLER

1-3 Actron CP9110 – What You Get

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1984-1995 GM

When you receive your scan tool, take time to review all package contents.

The Application Cartridge serial tag is located on the top center of the cartridge. This

CP9110 123456789

Actron Manufacturing warrants the software programs to

be accurate to the level of information released by the

serial tag will always be visible when the cartridge is inserted in the main tool.

Please take time to review all important

Main Tool Model and Serial Tag

documents enclosed. Be sure to review both boxes for contents.

Review Box Contents Main Tool Box

In addition to the scan tool you should have received the following items in the main tool box:

Cartridge Model and Serial Tag

• The Scan Tool

• Carrying Pouch

• Power Cable

• Main Tool Operator's manual

Application Cartridge Box

The Application Cartridge box that you purchased should contain the following items:

• The Application Cartridge

• Vehicle Cable Adapter

Before You Start

Take time to review the proper procedure for powering-up your scan tool. The following section, Cartridge and Installation, should be read before proceeding! This will help you become familiar with all operating procedures.

• Application Manual for that vehicle

1-4 Cartridge and Installation

Review the Application Cartridge installation procedure before you power-up your scan tool. Hold the cartridge, serial number tag up, and slowly insert the car-

SERIAL NO.MODEL NO.

PATENT PENDING

ACTRON MFG.

PATENT PENDING

Vehicle manufacturer at the time of release.

(800) 228-7667

CP9111 123456789

1984-1995 GM

1-2325

tridge into the cartridge opening. Align the cartridge slots with the “keyway” on the main tool bottom opening. Continue to gently push the cartridge into the opening until you feel the main “edge connector” resistance, then push to engage the cartridge to the cartridge stop. The cartridge is engaged when the alignment of the serial number tag is even with the top edge of the Main Tool opening edge and flush against the cartridge stop. Refer to the example.

To remove the Application Cartridge simply grasp the cartridge end and pull away from the main tool. This action will disengage the cartridge from the edge connector. Continue to pull the cartridge out of the opening the rest of the way.

NOTE: You should always have the Application Cartridge installed before you connect your unit to the power supply.

NEVER UNPLUG THE CARTRIDGE WHEN POWER IS APPLIED!

1-5 Power Cables and Vehicle Adapters

The scan tool comes with a main power cable designed to plug into the vehicle cigarette lighter. The other end of the cable plugs into the scan tool as shown below.

Connecting to Vehicle Cigarette Lighter

Your scan tool has been designed to operate at the same voltage levels as your vehicle’s computer. It requires a minimum of 8 volts to power-up. The scan tool is circuit protected from voltage variations and power surges. Should you have a problem with power-up, review Section 3-1: Tool Problems to verify the nature of your problem. NOTE: power to the cigarette lighter receptacle when the ignition key is in the OFF or START positions. Check your vehicle to determine whether this is the case.

Optional Battery Clip

Some vehicles shut off

Application Cartridge Installed

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SERIAL NO.MODEL NO.

ACTRON MFG.

PATENT PENDING

1984-1995

Connecting to Scan Tool

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Occasionally, you may find it necessary to connect directly to the vehicle’s battery. In these cases you may obtain an optional battery clip adapter from Actron. Actron also offers an AC power adapter to power

SERIAL NO.MODEL NO.

CP9110 12345678

PATENT PENDING

1984-1995

the scan tool with standard 110V wall power. Both of these accessories may be purchased directly from Actron.

AC 110V to 12V Power Adapter

Vehicle Cable Adapters

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Your scan tool Vehicle Application Cartridge pack will contain the Application Cartridge, application manual and vehicle cable adapter for one manufacturer (GM, Ford, or Chrysler). The vehicle cable adapter will be installed on the scan tool by locating the large connector receptacle on the top right side of the main tool. Insert the vehicle cable into the scan tool receptacle and use the two “thumb screws” to secure it to the connector as shown in the illustration below. Note that you will feel a firm seating of the cable as you secure it to the scan tool connector. The vehicle cable adapter should always be connected to the vehicle before power is applied to the scan tool. This will enable the scan tool to maintain a proper ground between itself and the vehicle. If you have connected to the vehicle, powered-up the tool, and have difficulty establishing a link between the scan tool and the vehicle, check the following:

1. Is the ignition on?

2. Verify you have connected the vehicle data cable to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).

3. Confirm that proper vehicle information was entered into scan tool.

Connecting the Vehicle Adapter Cable

When attaching the data cable to the vehicle, take time to review the specific application manual for the cartridge you are using. This will instruct you on correctly connecting the cable to the vehicle. Many of the vehicle adapters are “keyed” so that the adapter will fit only one way. If you find that you have a special vehicle situation or the adapter does not fit, call 1-800ACTRON-7 for assistance. Always double check the application section to be sure that you are following the proper hook-up directions. For further help that is not available in the scan tool help screens, see Section 3: Actron Help for solutions to your scan tool problems.

As you review the CP9110 Features section on page 1-1 and 1-2, you will note there is a complete view of accessory vehicle adapter cables. They are for special applications that only apply to certain vehicles. If your vehicle is one of these, you can order cables direct from Actron by calling (800) 228-7667.

1-6 Operating the Scan Tool

Powering-up the scan tool

The scan tool can be powered-up in three ways. The most widely used way is with the supplied cigarette lighter adapter. The scan tool can also be powered up by using the optional Battery Clip Adapter or 110/12V AC Power Adapter. If you are poweringup the scan tool for vehicle testing, then make sure you connect the appropriate cable to the data connector before you supply power to the scan tool. If you do not connect the vehicle data cable now, the scan tool connected the data cable. If you just want to power-up the then you do not need to attach the cable to the data connector.

When the screens is displayed. The screens start with a “Welcome” screen and end with a “Key Button Help” screen.

Welcome & Key Button Help Screens

The screens in between the “Welcome” and the “Key Button Help” screen are for a tool self-test and the cartridge software version. Refer to this software version if you need to contact Actron’s technical support line with a problem. If you wish to review the key button definitions, then push the HELP key; otherwise, press ENTER to continue forward.

will let you know that you have not

scan tool

Welcome To

The ScanTool

By Actron

Press HELP For Key Button Information.

Press ENTER To Cont

to do self-tests,

powers-up, a series of

Keyboard

The scan tool software was designed for a “user friendly” approach in navigating through operational menus. This makes the scan tool easy to operate. Simply follow the instructions that match the keyboard symbols and you will be using your scan tool like an expert in no time. Since the keyboard is sealed, a damp cloth can be used to gently clean the surface. (

tion:

DO NOT USE SOLVENTS LIKE ALCOHOL! This could remove the keyboard paint!)

Scan Tool Keyboard and Display

Keyboard Functions

The scan tool uses 8 keys to navigate through the software-user interface:

ENTER Used to enter or answer a

software request.

HELP Used to request help when

symbol is in the upper right hand

the corner of the display.

FUNCTION Used to return user to

manufacturer’s function list.

BACKUP Used to move one screen

back in scan tool flow.

ARROWS UP or DOWN are always

used to move the solid cursor direction of the arrow or scroll the data list in the direction you want to move the list

LEFT or RIGHT arrows move the cursor in the direction of the arrow and allow you to customize a vehicle data parameter list.

Cau-

in the

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