Vcads that run off windows 7?

The stand alone VCADS program is obsolete, and is no longer supported by Volvo. The new version of the Volvo diagnostic program is called Premium Tech Tool, and is now actually a version 2.0, or PTT2, as we call it. It is designed for use on the Windows 7 platform.

You can find more information or place an order here:

http://www.premiumtechtool.com/

 

That depends on how much you're going to use it. If you only have one truck, you're better off just taking it to someone who has it, or reading your codes through the dash. If you have a shop or a fleet, it's worth the investment.

A really great alternative is Jpro. Lots of independent shops use it.

 

http://www.jprofleetproducts.com/software/jpro_fleetdiagsmodule_hd.asp

 

Well the best would be PTT. What are you looking to do? Just read codes and diagnose? Change parameters?

If you're only looking to read codes and do some light diagnosis, Jpro might be better. It works with all makes and models, and supports Volvo and Cummins engines (as well as other manufacturers).

PTT only supports Volvo, and reads generic codes from non Volvo equipment (ABS, transmission, etc) with no diagnostics for non Volvo components.

 

The only way to do that is to obtain a PTT client ID (basically a registration key) illegally (which has happened).

Even if you buy PTT from Volvo, its a customer version, and does not allow module programming, and limited parameter changes. For example, injector trim codes cannot be programmed using the customer version.

For software updates, you're better off just taking it to the dealer. It's a simple process, but do you really want to chance making a mistake and bricking your engine ecu?