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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:53:55 AM

Title: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:53:55 AM
Hello Guys,

Well I found this ad for a ProLink.  What do you think?

"I have two Pro-Link Plus scan tools for sale. Both work fine, I just don't use them anymore. Both come with the MPC (multi-protocol cartridge) includes two of the other application cartridges. Allison and Detroit II/III, or Bendix and Detroit IV. One has 6 pin to 9 pin adapter. The other has 6 pin and International interface. $700 each"

Is this what I should get.

Thanks a million

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:59:57 AM
Also, how can I tell which version of DDEC I have?

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 07:24:12 AM
It should be a DDEC lll with the 1st generation WT B500 Allison, there is a label on the back side of the DDEC and a label on the valve cover
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 07:48:32 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 07:24:12 AM
It should be a DDEC lll with the 1st generation WT B500 Allison, there is a label on the back side of the DDEC and a label on the valve cover

OK, The guy selling it said to send him to Serial Number to the engine, so I did.  "The back side of the DDEC"  Well, that means the side by the engine, which would mean taking it off the side of the engine to see it, right?

The label you are talk about -- does it have a UPC and a number like DD06R0319117?


Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 08:17:28 AM
DDEC lll were from 1994 to 1997 the DEDC lV was from 1998 to 2002 a lot of 1998 MCI used the DDEC lll also, I guess MCI had a surplus of 1997 series 60 engines they used 
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 08:45:22 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 08:17:28 AM
DDEC lll were from 1994 to 1997 the DEDC lV was from 1998 to 2002 a lot of 1998 MCI used the DDEC lll also, I guess MCI had a surplus of 1997 series 60 engines they used

Ok, mine is a 97 model and I think I saw somewhere that it was actually built in 96, so, maybe safe to assume III.

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 11:05:44 AM
So what do you all think?

Is $700 appropriate for this? 

Is this what I need? 

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Bill Gerrie on November 30, 2022, 11:14:35 AM
When I installed the DDEC IV set up in 2006 I paid $1800 for the same Prolink and cartridges. A lot of money but when I go to a bus rally I seem to be the only one there with the Prolink so it gets used a lot. The price is what you feel is fair to you. They pay for themselves when you can  clear a code without the need of a dealer with the high cost of him doing it.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 11:28:55 AM
What model of ProLink ? the 9000 Plus is a better scanner that the 9000  you need to be sure the cartridge and scanner is good since Snap/On purchased the company they don't repair the older Pro/Links like the 9000 and the 9000 plus
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 12:55:59 PM
Quote from: Bill Gerrie on November 30, 2022, 11:14:35 AM
When I installed the DDEC IV set up in 2006 I paid $1800 for the same Prolink and cartridges. A lot of money but when I go to a bus rally I seem to be the only one there with the Prolink so it gets used a lot. The price is what you feel is fair to you. They pay for themselves when you can  clear a code without the need of a dealer with the high cost of him doing it.

Thank you for that

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 01:00:02 PM
Quote from: luvrbus on November 30, 2022, 11:28:55 AM
What model of ProLink ? the 9000 Plus is a better scanner that the 9000  you need to be sure the cartridge and scanner is good since Snap/On purchased the company they don't repair the older Pro/Links like the 9000 and the 9000 plus

Hmmm, good to know.  So if 9000 or 9000 plus and it doesn't work, it's just a paper weight, end of story?

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:50:35 PM
Ok, he said it's a Nexiq Pro-Link Plus.

What do you think?

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 03:31:08 AM
Quote from: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:50:35 PM
Ok, he said it's a Nexiq Pro-Link Plus.

What do you think?

Seb

Complete units are getting hard to find ,the hand held scanner doesn't give many problems the software cartridges get abused and are getting hard to find now.Offer him 500 bucks all he can say is no.FWIW I paid almost 500 bucks for the DDC cartridge for the marine engines DDEC lll and IV, still haven't figured out how to use some of the reprograming features in the thing,Another option for you is the DDDL software if have a laptop, it sells for around 50 to 100 bucks and the cable for about 40 bucks and it is easier to use than the Pro/Link lol the screen is larger too
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Jim Blackwood on December 01, 2022, 09:40:29 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 03:31:08 AM
Another option for you is the DDDL software if have a laptop, it sells for around 50 to 100 bucks and the cable for about 40 bucks and it is easier to use than the Pro/Link lol the screen is larger too

Now this is information worth having. Could you suggest sources for the software and cable, and what are the limitations of going that way?

Jim
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 09:57:31 AM
Quote from: Jim Blackwood on December 01, 2022, 09:40:29 AM
Now this is information worth having. Could you suggest sources for the software and cable, and what are the limitations of going that way?

Jim

I looked on Ebay the DDDL range from 35 to 100 bucks and cables are listed there too,DDDL has no draw back except you need a laptop that you can download the program to.They have a lot of releases the release 10 has some features one would never use on a DDEC lll or IV ,mine is a release 3 if I recall correctly and has no problems with the DDEC lll or IV
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Glennman on December 01, 2022, 12:28:22 PM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 09:57:31 AM


I looked on Ebay the DDDL range from 35 to 100 bucks and cables are listed there too,DDDL has no draw back except you need a laptop that you can download the program to.They have a lot of releases the release 10 has some features one would never use on a DDEC lll or IV ,mine is a release 3 if I recall correctly and has no problems with the DDEC lll or IV
If the DDDL is a program that can be loaded into a laptop, how does the laptop connect to the bus?
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 01, 2022, 12:58:25 PM
Quote from: Jim Blackwood on December 01, 2022, 09:40:29 AM
Now this is information worth having. Could you suggest sources for the software and cable, and what are the limitations of going that way?

Jim

Ditto to that!  This sounds like a much more practical idea going forward.

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 01, 2022, 01:05:20 PM
Quote from: Glennman on December 01, 2022, 12:28:22 PM
If the DDDL is a program that can be loaded into a laptop, how does the laptop connect to the bus?

Hey Glenman,

LuverBus mentioned that there are some cables for about $40, but looking on eBay I don't see any cables for less than hundreds of dollars.

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 01:39:09 PM
Quote from: Sebulba on December 01, 2022, 01:05:20 PM

Hey Glenman,

LuverBus mentioned that there are some cables for about $40, but looking on eBay I don't see any cables for less than hundreds of dollars. 

Seb

The 6 or 9 pin cable does cost more but they pop up on Ebay cheap,mine uses a PDM cable with the 6 or 9 pin adapters for the DDEC forgot what I paid but it was less than a 100 buck I know
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: chessie4905 on December 01, 2022, 03:50:04 PM
What is the latest windows version that it operates on? Hopefully it is not, say, Vista.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 03:54:36 PM
Quote from: chessie4905 on December 01, 2022, 03:50:04 PM
What is the latest windows version that it operates on? Hopefully it is not, say, Vista.

Mine is windows 10 on the laptop ,not many hand held scanners at WW Williams in Phoenix it is all on laptops inside the shop
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: chessie4905 on December 01, 2022, 06:50:31 PM
Yeah, if I had to buy one today, definately for use on a lap top.
Was at service bay entrance overhead doors last year. About 12 bays. Every bay had a laptop on a stand. Also, good way for a mechanic to look up how the hell to fix something on Utube(⁠•⁠‿⁠•⁠). Actually a good idea. All of manufacturers service repair manuals, service bulletins, vehicle repair history, etc. right at mechanics finger tips.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Glennman on December 02, 2022, 01:03:08 PM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 01, 2022, 01:39:09 PM

I hope I'm not stealing this thread by expanding on the cable thing, but I just received a cable set up from Amazon for $27.00 that has the 2 round connectors that adapt to a rectangular one (16 pins). I'm not able to post a link at this time, nor am I able to post a picture, but it's a pretty nice adapter set up. The question I have is how the 16 pin rectangular adapter would connect to a typical laptop. Is there an additional or different adapter needed? I believe this one adapts to most diagnostic tools, but a laptop?
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 02, 2022, 02:21:38 PM
Even with a Pro/link you have a 15 pin data cable that goes from the plug adapter to the Pro/Link < will try and get photos of mine later, somebody probably makes a USB adapter now, mine you plug the data cable in to the laptop and tighten the 2 thumb screws and go   
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 03, 2022, 04:43:43 AM
Quote from: Sebulba on November 30, 2022, 06:53:55 AM
Hello Guys,

Well I found this ad for a ProLink.  What do you think?

"I have two Pro-Link Plus scan tools for sale. Both work fine, I just don't use them anymore. Both come with the MPC (multi-protocol cartridge) includes two of the other application cartridges. Allison and Detroit II/III, or Bendix and Detroit IV. One has 6 pin to 9 pin adapter. The other has 6 pin and International interface. $700 each"

Is this what I should get.

Thanks a million

Seb

Are those the 2 Pro/Links JD is selling?
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 03, 2022, 11:25:03 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 03, 2022, 04:43:43 AM


Are those the 2 Pro/Links JD is selling?

Yes, they are.

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 03, 2022, 11:26:53 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 02, 2022, 02:21:38 PM
Even with a Pro/link you have a 15 pin data cable that goes from the plug adapter to the Pro/Link < will try and get photos of mine later, somebody probably makes a USB adapter now, mine you plug the data cable in to the laptop and tighten the 2 thumb screws and go

I think the computer option is probably more practical now, but where can a guy get the correct cord?

Maybe a link?

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 04, 2022, 04:49:41 AM
If the laptop doesn't have a serial port, then you are going to need a 15 pin adapter vendors selling the DDDL should have that or tell you what is needed 
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Bill Gerrie on December 04, 2022, 06:42:40 AM
Look on Amazon for a 15 pin serial connector to a USB connector. Lots on there just make sure it is the right one.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Jim Blackwood on December 04, 2022, 07:46:55 AM
Is this where you get the DDDL?

https://www.epcatalogs.com/Detroit-Diesel-Diagnostic-Link-8-0-DDDL-8-0-diagnostic-software/

Jim
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 04, 2022, 07:59:54 AM
Quote from: Jim Blackwood on December 04, 2022, 07:46:55 AM
Is this where you get the DDDL?

https://www.epcatalogs.com/Detroit-Diesel-Diagnostic-Link-8-0-DDDL-8-0-diagnostic-software/

Jim

I never purchased one my buddy at WW Williams downloaded it for me on a spare laptop I had, looks to be about the same with the trouble shooting feature built in  I don't think my software supports the DDEC 6 though the V is the last on mine and it doesn't have internet connection those are for connection to the DD you pay a subscription fee for I believe I would ask   
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 04, 2022, 04:23:31 PM
Quote from: Bill Gerrie on December 04, 2022, 06:42:40 AM
Look on Amazon for a 15 pin serial connector to a USB connector. Lots on there just make sure it is the right one.

Ok, there we go.  Now I know what to look for.

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 05, 2022, 04:09:35 AM
A friend of mine tells me you need good internet to download with from the sellers ,he downloaded his last night after he cleaned all the junk off his laptop
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Jim Blackwood on December 05, 2022, 09:16:09 AM
Did he tell you who has the best deal?
I have two main concerns. Most importantly I want software that is going to work with my '96 MCI. I don't want to pay more for it than I have to. (yes I'm a cheapskate) But of course if there is a problem I also want someone who will help rather than just leaving me hanging. You fellas who have been around the block for awhile know what's what where I'm a newbie on this stuff but I've lived long enough to know plenty are out there who will jump at the chance to take advantage of my ignorance. So I'm not asking you to do the job for me, but a link to a known good source would certainly take a lot of the stress out of the whole process. I would and will do that for you guys, in fact I do try to post good sources whenever I find them.

Jim
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Sebulba on December 05, 2022, 01:10:33 PM
Quote from: Jim Blackwood on December 05, 2022, 09:16:09 AM
Did he tell you who has the best deal?
I have two main concerns. Most importantly I want software that is going to work with my '96 MCI. I don't want to pay more for it than I have to. (yes I'm a cheapskate) But of course if there is a problem I also want someone who will help rather than just leaving me hanging. You fellas who have been around the block for awhile know what's what where I'm a newbie on this stuff but I've lived long enough to know plenty are out there who will jump at the chance to take advantage of my ignorance. So I'm not asking you to do the job for me, but a link to a known good source would certainly take a lot of the stress out of the whole process. I would and will do that for you guys, in fact I do try to post good sources whenever I find them.

Jim

Thank you Jim.  My sentiments.  I don't even know enough to be very dangerous, but it's really hard to make an informed decision when a guy is so new to this. 

One fear I have is that, if I get something, I don't know enough to know if it's even working correctly.

I would really like to get something like this, but I need clear guidance from people I trust.

Thanks

Seb
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: muldoonman on December 19, 2022, 07:36:08 AM
Guys with the Pro Link 9000, do you know what Transmission these fit?  After selling my 3 Pro Links and the Prevost, found these 2 Cartridges in the Cabinet and don't know what trans they fit. One says Allison/World Electronic Transmission and the other Allison ATEC 1. Don't look like they have ever been plugged in. If anybody needs um send me a email.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Bill Gerrie on December 19, 2022, 08:10:32 AM
What do you want for them?
retiredbusnut@yahoo.com
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 08:31:33 AM
Those would nice for people with older transmissions for sure, the ATEC will require the adapter to work on a prolink do you have the adapter ? the WT cartridge is for the first release of the WT they are up to 6 now, If I had a use I would buy those .I bought Tom Hammrick pro link with the adapters and cartridges he had listed here in bus parts in May of 2020 was such a good deal I couldn't pass on it lol someone lifted the ATEC cartridge and adapter but have another 1 now if I can find out what box it is packed in 
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Bill Gerrie on December 19, 2022, 09:02:20 AM
I have a V731 ATEC
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 09:12:21 AM
Quote from: Bill Gerrie on December 19, 2022, 09:02:20 AM
I have a V731 ATEC

You will need the 4140 adapter (12 male pin to 15 male pin) it shouldn't be hard to find if Glen doesn't have one  for 20 bucks
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: muldoonman on December 19, 2022, 10:24:39 AM
Quote from: Bill Gerrie on December 19, 2022, 08:10:32 AM
What do you want for them?
retiredbusnut@yahoo.com

$125 a piece. $200 for both. All cables went with Pro Links when I sold them. Found these after I shipped Scanners. Have a newer Cummins 350 HP ISC Motor with Allison 6 speed in my camper and none of these fit anything.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 10:30:33 AM
Quote from: muldoonman on December 19, 2022, 10:24:39 AM
$125 a piece. $200 for both. All cables went with Pro Links when I sold them. Found these after I shipped Scanners. Have a newer Cummins 350 HP ISC Motor with Allison 6 speed in my camper and none of these fit anything.

You are living on the dark side now Glen ? the 6 speed is a WT but without the scanner the WT cartridge would be no use for the WT in your camper 
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: muldoonman on December 19, 2022, 10:32:08 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 10:30:33 AM


You are living on the dark side now Glen ?
Just trying to feed the kids. ;D If you need um will send um to you to try.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: muldoonman on December 19, 2022, 10:57:43 AM
Quote from: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 10:30:33 AM


You are living on the dark side now Glen ? the 6 speed is a WT but without the scanner the WT cartridge would be no use for the WT in your camper

Yeah Cliff my 8V92TA only had 97,000 miles on it but after that $6700 buck Blower Rebuild at Stewart Stevenson down San Antone way both Brother's 75 years + retired and I didn't trust anyone to work on the Prevost. New Owner flew in from North of Sacramento Ca. with his Mechanic and drove back 1800 miles with no issues. Didn't want to be on side of the rode with nobody to work on it. Went to the dark side with a newer 40 foot American Revolution Coach. Still like the old busses. He's worried now about the Commie's out there banning the 2 Strokes.
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: luvrbus on December 19, 2022, 11:15:24 AM
I like my dark side RV to,I love the power of the 600hp ISX Cummins the thing never breaks a sweat pushing 50,000 lbs, a plus is buying engine oil it is everywhere if you even need it between oil changes.Only thing I don't like is all the electronics with 1 remote. I am learning in a hurry when things stop working just kill the battery power and let it boot up again and all is fine. Another thing is the $4000.00 windshield when I get it replaced the next time I go to Texas I am going to cover it with a peep hole through a 1/8 in steel plate,I miss my bus sometime but for comfort and driving I like my Country Coach 
Title: Re: Should I get this ProLink?
Post by: Bill Gerrie on December 19, 2022, 12:38:41 PM
Muldoonman
Email me your phone number.
Bill