What is a good scan tool to buy?

Looking to buy a scan tool to read a j1939 for a C15 in a Peterbilt 387.

 

OTR if they make one for your truck. Solid product. Not cheap.

 

Something like a prolink 9000? We have 1 pretty easy to use and get data from. Does cyl cutout etc

Let's you go in and change parameters, speed limiter, re program for tire/gear change

 

Got it off eBay for around 400 if i remember right

 

Maybe get some of the wrench spinners opinion.
@pushbroom @Goodysnap @spsauerland

 

Hard to beat cheap laptop with OEM programs.

 

Anything less will be a disapointment and unreliable.

 

If all you want to do is read codes this is decently priced and oem supported. I think it is cheaper through the dealer.

PACLink Wireless Code Reader for Heavy Duty Trucks

 

Everything seems to point to Detroit on that 9000.

 

I use the Nexiq Usb Link 2. Bit more on the pricey side but works great for anything you need. Really the most expensive thing is the software. Freightliner software is about $1200 for one year on the basic plan I believe. You can read diagnostic codes but can do anything else. It's probably worth the money though because these tools work awesome for diagnosis. I have professional versions of quite a few programs as I have multiple trucks but if you only have 1 truck it may not be worth paying for the pro version I'd stick with the basic ones.