Diagnostic Software?

[zofsak]

Well I am finally getting rid of my VW and getting another 240. I plan on dropping in an RB20 when the time is right, but had not noticed anyone; even in searching, mention anything about diagnostic software. VW's have a brand of software called VagCom that basically does the same thing the dealer computer does. It connects your computer and the ECU via a cable through the diagnostic port; go figure. Anyway, the software is great, you can run systems checks, clear fault codes, and make adjustments. Is there a company that makes any such thing for Nissan?

[slipnfall]

Welcome aboard. I assume you've aquired your 240? What year/trim?

Regarding the diagnostic software: yes and no. Nissan has their own proprietary interface, named CONSULT. They basically use a hand-held, touch-screen computer that connects to the diagnostic port under the driver's side dash. This is true for all model 240sx's, and almost any Nissan vehicle for that matter. The interface has been reverse engineered, and there are one or two places that sell the hardware and software required to do the diagnostics(you'll need a laptop w/a serial port). Note that there is currently no way to modify ECU maps via this port, it is purely for diagnostic purposes only.

Check out http://www.plmsdevelopments.com.

If you have an S14 240sx, you may be interested in just getting an ODBII-compliant 'scan' tool.

[zofsak]

Thank you. I asked the same question on club240.com and only got a smartass answer about doing a search, which I did. Anyway, I just got a great deal on a 97 SE with under 100k and the only thing I need to change is the auto to manual. The car is bone stock and will be the host for an RB20 when I get the chance. The car is actually being shipped in from Jersey and should be here next week. I can't wait; I have been driving around a VW Golf since a water puddle + CAI w/ no air bypass valve put my S13 track car out of comission in 2002. Its time to go home.

[kane2g]

Regarding the diagnostic software: yes and no. Nissan has their own proprietary interface, named CONSULT. They basically use a hand-held, touch-screen computer that connects to the diagnostic port under the driver's side dash. This is true for all model 240sx's, and almost any Nissan vehicle for that matter

I was told that SOHC (89-90) 240sx didn't have Consult. Can anyone verify.

[slipnfall]

That I'm not 100% sure on. I vaguely remember hearing that the SOHC's have the interface, but the wiring/connector is not 'plumbed' to under the D/S dash(however you can access it directly off the ECU harness).

Don't quote me on that tho.

Nice find on the S14 BTW.

What were the details on your S13 hydro-lock? What CAI system, and how deep was the puddle? I'm moving to NM and considering a CAI, since they rarely get rain. Only thing is when they *do* get rain, it's usually pretty deep(doesn't want to soak in).

[zofsak]

I hit a puddle under an underpass about 4-6" deep. It put the #4 rod through the oil pan. The car still ran, like crap, but it still ran. It started to overheat, no oil, and I got another three hundred yards before it was all over. The CAI was an Injen; worked really well. I put on a custom free flowing exhaust and bypassed all the emissions systems. The car ideled a little rough but would screem off the line; it was loud as f*&k too. And a whole hell of a lot of fun. I got the car off ebay from a dealer in Jersey, even with the $800 for shipping its still a steal. I found something interesting as far as diagnostic software, check it out. http://300zx-twinturbo.com/conzult/ . I haven't had a chance to look over it too much but so far it looks like exactly what I have been looking for.