service engine soon light

[hayhauler69]

Hi all,
Finally got my truck running 'GREAT!!'
But comming to work this morning up here on a cool Northwest morning doing about 60MPH with the cruse control on the service engine soon light came on.
Went out when I got off freeway. Seems to cycle on and off depending on driving conditions.
I have for right now a stock intake, stock everything.
I 'thought' I felt a little drop in RPM when it happened but not sure. I was on pins and needles anyways because I had problems with my battery cables which thanks to some fine people here helped me work that problem out.
What I'd like to know is what is a good code reader to get?
I'd like to get one for my truck, a 1995 GMC K2500 6.5TBD 4X4 and also use it for the Wifes little S-15 1998 Jimmy.
Any thoughts would be appreiciated.
Thanks, Buzz

[DmaxMaverick]

You don't need a code reader for your '95. Jumper two pins on the ALDL, and it'll tell you where it hurts. The procedure and DTC list can be found HERE (http://www.thedieselpage.com/members/trblcode.htm).

Your wife's '98, on the other hand, will require a code reader to see what the computer is trying to tell you.

For code readers, I like the Actron line. Models vary by features, and prices vary from $50 to $250, depending on the features. Find the model you need HERE (http://www.actron.com/), then find a dealer that can get it for you. Pep Boys and other chain parts stores carry, or can order them.

Unfortunately, you won't find a reasonably priced reader that will cross that line between OBD I and OBD II. 1996 is the beginning year for OBD II, with a few exceptions for imports where some were early or late. Beware, there was a very short release of OBD 1.5, but was limited to a few Japanese imports, and US branded imports, and almost exclusively Mitsubishi and Chrysler branded Mitsubishi.