Hook up to trucks computer?

Discussion in 'Trucking Electronics, Gadgets and Software Forum' started by andy622000, Aug 25, 2007.

  1. andy622000

    andy622000 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 5, 2007
    Kentville, NS
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    Hi All
    I'm not sure this is in the right section but here goes anyway.
    Is it possible to buy a lead to connect my laptop to the engine computer on my truck?
    Also, I pesume i would need some sort of software, is this available?

    I have a Cat c13 engine in a 2008 peterbilt 387 and the reason i ask is because i don't have a on board readout of MPG's etc, i would like to keep a close eye on my mileage.

    Thanks in advance for any help.

    Andy
     
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  3. Brickman

    Brickman Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Sep 17, 2006
    WY
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    Your dealer is probably the best source of help here. I priced a dash computer readout for my former truck, 1996 T600. KW wanted about $600 and they said it was pretty much plug and play.
     
  4. andy622000

    andy622000 Bobtail Member

    32
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    Jul 5, 2007
    Kentville, NS
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    Thanks Brickman, i'll look into that option as well but it seems a little pricey.
     
  5. BearGator56

    BearGator56 "The G stands for GOOD!"

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    Apr 11, 2006
    Orlando, FL
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    If you think that's pricey, wait until you find out how much it costs to get the software and connectors to hook up to your laptop! lol

    I checked into this a while back for my Cummins N-14... It wasn't pretty.
     
  6. kelgar50

    kelgar50 Medium Load Member

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    Feb 1, 2007
    Bakersfield,CA
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    The last I checked back in 2000 the software for the Cat C-15 was $1600 plus the cost of all the hookups.YIKE'S!!!
     
  7. andy622000

    andy622000 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 5, 2007
    Kentville, NS
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    #$%^ that, i'll carry on doing it manually then........lol
     
  8. kd5drx

    kd5drx <strong>Master of Electronic Communications</stron

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    Nov 28, 2006
    Some where USA
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    there are after market gauges that you can hook up to the computer that will give you all the info you really need like MPG and Boost and other readings like EGT or turbo outlet temp and stuff which is what we used to drive by in the old days called a pyromitor now days. Just a thought.
     
  9. andy622000

    andy622000 Bobtail Member

    32
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    Jul 5, 2007
    Kentville, NS
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    Thanks kd5drx, thats the kind of thing i had in mind. Do you know where to look for one/cost etc?
     
  10. caboose73

    caboose73 Bobtail Member

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    May 25, 2011
    Massachusetts
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    I know this is a really old thread but does anyone have any new info on this?
     
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