Encountering problems connecting your BAFX OBD2 scanner and Torque Pro app to your 7.3 Powerstroke engine can be frustrating. Many 7.3 Powerstroke owners, especially those with older models, may run into communication issues and inaccurate readings when trying to use OBD2 scanners for diagnostics. Let’s break down some common problems and potential solutions when using a BAFX OBD2 scanner with the Torque Pro app on your 7.3 Powerstroke diesel.
One prevalent issue reported is the “ECU Problem” message within Torque Pro, stating that the ECU doesn’t support reading PIDs, despite the app indicating a “connected to ECU OK” status. This often leaves users puzzled, questioning OBD2 compliance and scanner compatibility. You might also experience inaccurate gauge readings, such as incorrect speed, coolant temperature stuck at -40F, and boost pressure remaining at zero, even when the engine is running. Another significant concern is the engine stalling when attempting to scan for faults while it’s running, while scans are only successful with the key on but engine off.
These issues can stem from several factors, and understanding them is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Let’s explore these problems and discuss how to get your BAFX OBD2 scanner and Torque Pro app working correctly with your 7.3 Powerstroke.
Decoding the “ECU Problem” Message
The “ECU Problem” message, while seemingly contradictory to the “connected to ECU OK” notification, often indicates a miscommunication or misinterpretation between the Torque Pro app and your 7.3 Powerstroke’s engine control unit (ECU). While your 1996 7.3 Powerstroke should indeed be OBD2 compliant, the way older ECUs communicate and the PIDs they support might differ from newer vehicles.
Here’s what could be happening:
- PID Support Limitations: Older OBD2 systems, particularly those from the mid-1990s, might not support all the standard PIDs (Parameter IDs) that Torque Pro expects. The “ECU Problem” message could mean that the specific PIDs Torque Pro is initially requesting are not recognized or provided by your 7.3 Powerstroke’s ECU. However, basic communication is established, hence the “connected to ECU OK” message.
- App Configuration: Torque Pro is a highly customizable app, and incorrect settings can lead to communication issues. It might be configured with a default protocol or PID set that isn’t fully compatible with your 7.3 Powerstroke.
Addressing Inaccurate Gauge Readings
Inaccurate readings, such as speed being double the actual value, coolant temperature frozen at -40F, and zero boost, are strong indicators of incorrect PID selection or data interpretation within Torque Pro.
Here’s how to tackle these inaccurate readings:
- Verify PID Settings: Torque Pro allows you to select specific PIDs for each gauge. You need to ensure that the correct PIDs for your 7.3 Powerstroke are being used. Generic OBD2 PIDs might not always translate correctly to Ford’s specific implementation on the 7.3 Powerstroke.
- Custom PIDs for 7.3 Powerstroke: The 7.3 Powerstroke, while OBD2 compliant, often benefits from using custom or Ford-specific PIDs for accurate readings. You may need to manually add these custom PIDs to Torque Pro. Online forums and 7.3 Powerstroke communities are excellent resources for finding these custom PID sets. Search for “Torque Pro 7.3 Powerstroke PIDs” to find lists and instructions for importing them into the app.
- Check Communication Protocol: While less common, an incorrect communication protocol setting in Torque Pro could also lead to data misinterpretation. Torque Pro usually auto-detects the protocol, but you can manually check and adjust it in the app’s settings if needed.
Engine Stalling During Fault Scans
The issue of your 7.3 Powerstroke stalling when scanning for faults while running is not typical and suggests a potential communication conflict or excessive load on the ECU during the active scan.
Consider these points:
- Scan with Key On, Engine Off: As you’ve discovered, scanning for faults with the key in the “on” position but the engine off is generally recommended for older vehicles. This reduces the electrical load and potential interference during the diagnostic process.
- Potential Software Glitch: While less likely, a software glitch in Torque Pro or the BAFX scanner itself could theoretically cause this issue. Ensure both the app and scanner firmware (if applicable) are up to date.
- ECU Sensitivity: Older ECUs can sometimes be more sensitive to communication requests from aftermarket scan tools. Scanning while the engine is running might push the ECU beyond its communication capacity, leading to a stall.
Finding Power Stroke Specific PIDs in Torque Pro
You’re right to look for Power Stroke specific PIDs. Torque Pro, in its default configuration, provides generic OBD2 PIDs. To get accurate and comprehensive data from your 7.3 Powerstroke, you need to add custom PIDs.
Here’s how to find and add them:
- Online Resources: Search online forums dedicated to the 7.3 Powerstroke and OBD2 diagnostics. Look for threads or posts specifically sharing Torque Pro PID configurations for the 7.3 Powerstroke. These often come as text files or instructions on how to manually input them.
- Torque Pro PID Management: In Torque Pro, navigate to “Settings” then “Manage custom PIDs / Sensors.” You’ll typically have options to “Add predefined set” or “Add custom PID.”
- Import or Manual Entry: If you find a predefined set (often as a .TORQUEPID file), you can import it. Otherwise, you’ll need to manually enter each PID using the information (PID number, formula, etc.) provided in online resources.
By adding these custom PIDs, you’ll gain access to more relevant data for your 7.3 Powerstroke, potentially resolving the inaccurate readings and providing a more comprehensive diagnostic capability.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting OBD2 scanner issues on older vehicles like the 7.3 Powerstroke often requires a bit more effort than with newer models. The “ECU Problem” message, inaccurate readings, and engine stalling during scans are common hurdles, but they are usually resolvable. By focusing on correct PID selection, potentially adding custom 7.3 Powerstroke PIDs to Torque Pro, and scanning with the key on engine off, you should be able to effectively use your BAFX OBD2 scanner and Torque Pro app for monitoring and diagnostics on your 7.3 Powerstroke. Remember to leverage online communities and resources dedicated to the 7.3 Powerstroke for specific PID information and troubleshooting tips.
