Best Scan Tool?
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 33
Likes: 3
Best Scan Tool? What is the best scan tool for a 5.3 Vortec that has all of the capability that a dealer tech would have available?
I'm building up a 5.3 Vortec for my 2000 Silverado, after 315,000 miles. The manual states that when replacing the crankshaft position sensor, the CKP System Variation Learn Procedure must be completed. Step 1 of that procedure is "Install the scan tool". The System Variation Learn Procedure is a menu selection on the scan tool.
I'm building up a 5.3 Vortec for my 2000 Silverado, after 315,000 miles. The manual states that when replacing the crankshaft position sensor, the CKP System Variation Learn Procedure must be completed. Step 1 of that procedure is "Install the scan tool". The System Variation Learn Procedure is a menu selection on the scan tool.
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 33
Likes: 3
TECH Resident
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 814
Likes: 231
From: Nebraska, The Good Life
TECH Resident
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 814
Likes: 231
From: Nebraska, The Good Life
An original Tech2 could cost $1000 or more. The clones out of China are typically pretty good, can be had for $200-$300. You have to make sure to get the complete kit with the proper PCM card and a memory card. Be sure the kit you buy includes the CANdi module (most do). Get the one with the GM USA PCM card.
Here's a random example: https://www.ebay.com/itm/15706111749...Bk9SR76-z_DrZQ
Looks like the prices have gone up. But if you shop around you may be able to find a better price or find a used one. I got mine used for $200 and it works great on both of my GTOs.
One other thing to note, the CANdi module is important to use to access all things in the vehicle, however the CANdi module will not connect if you have things like a set of gauges reading off of the OBDII system. The solution is to temporarily disconnect the ODBII gauges or whatever when using the Tech2/CANdi.
There are some less expensive computer apps which I've heard can do pretty much what the Tech2 does but does it with a laptop and a proper cable. I have no experience with those however so I can't recommend anything specific there. The best thing about the Tech2 is that it is GM technology accessing GM technology. They are also built very robust. There are plenty of how-to videos on how to use the Tech2 also which is helpful.
Here's a random example: https://www.ebay.com/itm/15706111749...Bk9SR76-z_DrZQ
Looks like the prices have gone up. But if you shop around you may be able to find a better price or find a used one. I got mine used for $200 and it works great on both of my GTOs.
One other thing to note, the CANdi module is important to use to access all things in the vehicle, however the CANdi module will not connect if you have things like a set of gauges reading off of the OBDII system. The solution is to temporarily disconnect the ODBII gauges or whatever when using the Tech2/CANdi.
There are some less expensive computer apps which I've heard can do pretty much what the Tech2 does but does it with a laptop and a proper cable. I have no experience with those however so I can't recommend anything specific there. The best thing about the Tech2 is that it is GM technology accessing GM technology. They are also built very robust. There are plenty of how-to videos on how to use the Tech2 also which is helpful.
Thread Starter
Teching In
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 33
Likes: 3
Awesome information. Thank you Rich. Very helpful!
Would this one work? It does not specifically say that it has the CANdi module, but it does say that it has all access and tools.
Would this one work? It does not specifically say that it has the CANdi module, but it does say that it has all access and tools.
Last edited by Sauceman; Jun 11, 2025 at 06:39 PM.
