who else watches SMA videos both unconscious and conscious? 5 minutes in I'm sleeping . when I wake up I gotta watch it again. This method absorbs the most info. lol
Ed all the damn time. I have them stacked in my watch list. Fall asleep and your whole list has been watched. Well now I have to watched everything.... again
You and my father would get along.. he goes in the office to call the parts house or answer the phone.. look up a schematic... if he's not back in 10 minutes I'd bet my left nut he's snoring in there. Lol
I purchased a Power Probe IV based on an earlier SMA video. As a person coming from a digital electronics background I immediately saw the advantages of what is essentially a digital logic probe for cars. In a nutshell it allows you tell if the thing you're touching with the tip is connected to 12v, ground, or open. The third item there is the key since a plain voltmeter doesn't distinguish between ground and open and reads zero in both cases. I used it on my own car to determine that I had an open ground connection, and by flipping the switch and connecting the tip to ground to bypass the break I could immediately see the result. It made troubleshooting an almost instant event. It may not be a DIY tool for everyone but I was really glad I had it. Thanks for the tip Eric!
I've been using a pp3 for years, great tool, checking fuses, basic circuits, lights, switches etc. I've never accidentally fried a module because I keep my finger off the switch. I've been hunting for decades, and have never accidentally killed anyone or anything because I keep my finger off the trigger.
At 37:38 Eric gives the best explanation of frequency, duty cycle and pulse width I’ve ever heard in my life!! Then goes on to explain how they relate to each other. Then does an excellent job of showing an instance of how this info is useful and how using this tool can provide every bit of information you need to make this useful in your diagnostics! Thank you!!
I've never owned one, been doing things my way for years. A co-worker has one, and it has piqued my interest. This video is really educational and has satisfied my interest. Now, i'm thinking about buying one. Thank you Eric, for such a good video.
This was good because a lot of new techs would be drawn to buying this because of cost (130.00) and some obvious handy functions. Those same techs might be guilty of not reading the manual to fully understand what this tool can/can't do. This video becomes very helpful in that regard. And you're right. You gave the power probe people at least 3, maybe 4 ideas for improved functionality. I hope they take your ideas into account (power probe 5) and I hope you at least get a free PP5 out of the deal. Thanks Eric.
I've been watching this channel for a few years now and love it. I some how missed this episode when it came out. I've been wanting a power probe for some time now and ran into a few instances where I thought it would be handy (Mainly for the initial basic function). I got a PP4 for Christmas this year and saw that it had more functions then I was expecting. I decided to jump on UA-cam to see if there was anyone showing how to use all these features and boom! South Main Auto was on top of it. Thank you so much for taking the time to go into detail on the features of this tool.
Watching this video I have learned about this tool and learned more about duty cycles. This Chanel is my favorite out of all the ones like it. Great job! Been watching for 4 years!
I find this tool to be really useful, got me out of a fix more than once, great for diagnosing bad connections and switches/relays, have recently checked injectors with it, and managed to locate a faulty injector using this tool when no other tool I have could.
I like the min and max feature so if you're testing for an intermittent short you can wiggly the suspected wire and see if the voltage jumps or cuts off. That is really useful. It's a shame power probes "short finder" wasn't more popular. I thought the concept was awesome but nobody seems to use it. Great instructional video.
I own a Power Probe III and I absolutely love it. I have no desire to get the PP IV though, as the few additional features are not worth it to me. I also use a conventional test light or "scope on a rope" as you call it. Plus the DMM is yet another useful tool, all three honestly have their place, you just need to know how to PROPERLY use them!!
I’ve had a powerprobe since the first one and have grown dependent on them and I’ve had the IV for well over a year but have never used that one. Funny thing is, I just got home from a training class on electrical diagnostics and utilizing your tools. And the teacher talked highly of the IV so when I got home I searched a power probe IV video and found this one. I’ve watched several of your videos and I really wish you were one of my technicians. Your definitely a sharp guy. Thanks for contributing your knowledge and experience. I’m like you, I see new cool stuff on the tool truck and I buy it and a lot of them just collect dust. I’m going to try and make my IV the go to tool for quick and easy tests.
Hi! The "no alarm" feature when power or ground ccts don't meet battery level is to indicate a high resistance feed, or ground as the case may be. Great video as always. Tnx
Sweet, now I can use mine to it's fullest! I use the hell out of mine for diagnosing circuits, I knew it could do so much more but never had a practical moment to even figure it out. This is a good base to start with.
Eric, I purchased the pp4 a year ago, I use it a lot, great for trailer light diagnosis, I never use the probe tip, I use a 4mm banana lead with either a back probe terminal and or a alligator clamp. Also the ground wire pig tail is very useful. I also like the injector test in this pp4. Also the green and red led's are useful, etc. etc. Anyways it is a useful tool for anyone wanting to purchase one.
The ECT 2000 is the best tool I've ever found for finding shorts and opens, if the only automotive tool which will do the job. That being said, the use of the tool requires intimate knowledge of the tool and the circuit it is being used on. First issue of understanding is to realize it has two mode of detection, electric field (oscillating voltage on an open wire) and magnetic field from current flow, and it tells you which mode it is using, even to the extent the direction of the current (direction of the detector tip is important). Most detectors use only the electric field which is usually present over the entire harness of the car due to the vast interconnections, isolation of the wire (disconnect it at the source, apply the signal, then trace) is required to follow the signal. Tracing current flow is much more straight forward because the current is limited to only it's path, but keep in mind the path does include the power feed lines to the signal generator. I believe the current mode kicks in at about 100mA. I do not work for Power Probe so the description above is only from my use and experience. I agree they should give more technical details of it's operation.
I really enjoy watching you show use how some of your tools are used on a daily life and I greatly appreciate you taking the time out of your day to show use.
love this tool, never steered me wrong and had the pp4 since launch, have a hook also which gets used less but has come in real handy for measuring amps and adjustable circuit breaker etc. pp4 is quick and great, it loads the circuit in feed test mode which is what 99 percent of its users dont utelise.
I have had my PowerProbe for 18 months and have used it 4 times. Found it great as portable power for testing engine fans, cabin fans, power windows, and fuel pumps - since my scan tool has limited bi-directional control. Would never use the PowerProbe for anything else as I am a once monthly DIY and there is too much to memorize for my frequency of use.
Always used a coworkers power probe over the years. My current shop I work on a lot of custom trucks that paint the roads and grind them. Nothing is the same. I used my bosses power probe for a few weeks straight. Finally picked up one. On the Diesel truck side power probes are awesome. Next is swivel sockets lol . The things I use rarely buy need to buy.
If the light beeps and the voltage shows battery without the load in place , one would have to remember to use that feed test. All to often it's just accepted that the red light and a beep means power . Case in point " Why I don't PP on cars" video. No load in place , they verified power by disconnecting relay and placing tip of power probe to power feed wire . Light went red and beeped of course and test light alone dropped that same power feed to under 1 volt. Hopefully this video will show people a little more about how to use the tool properly and to not be lazy with using the installed functions. Bravo sir .
The driver test is good for testing at relay cavities and harnesses for solenoids to rule out the driver/module being the culprit. I like to test for live resistance on circuits using "power feed" test. I also like to use Min/Max feature when checking for opens. And I use Fuel Injector testing feature for fast comparison checks of accessible injectors.
Just got mine, feed test mode is when you have the component removed correct? I need to learn how to use this quickly for loaded circuit voltage drop and I think this is what we’re talking about?
I use mine all the time when doing electrical stuff when I'm under the car. The rust belt doesn't leave us with many good grounds under there so it's always nice to have battery ground available!
Thanks for the demo. I'm a show & tell kind of guy. So, descriptive talking point are often over my head. I often get lost in all the minutia. The second half of the demo giving examples was very helpful. A PP is definitely worth a serious consideration for the he DIY guy given the nature of newer cars and endless electronic devices and ECMs. Thx!😎
Eric O, absolutely love this video tutorial!!! I enjoyed every minute of it. Learned a bit. I don't use one at all. But gives me insight how to use it and test etc!!! Love it
Your knowledge of circuit design and overall vehicle maintenance procedures was well displayed in this video. You quickly showed the pros and cons of this tool and you did it well because of your understanding of what's expected of a circuit. I'd be that guy who is push button happy and blow something up. I do like certain aspects of the tool, but I have to admit, it's beyond my skill level. On a different note, I enjoyed the sneak peak of the Jeep and it's still clean!
Such a useful tool. Might make my own! Should be fairly simple. I'm the kinda person that always cheaps out and makes my own tools/circuits. I always wanted one of those FM transmitter doodahs for getting audio to car radios that don't have aux input, so decided to make my own instead. Worked well. Ended up broadcasting as far as the next town haha.
Excellent video! Thanks for the review / tutorial. I'd not given that tool much thought before, but considering I'm a poor DIY'er and will never own a full blown scope as you have, this may work. Thanks again and keep up the good work!😁
Thanks Eric, I bought a PP4 and use it for fuse checking and bulbs, but was unsure about the other features.i have saved your video for future use as a visual manual👍 like you i learn by visual aid not by words In a manual
This has to be the best explanation of how to use one of these...especially the PP4...I have the complete service kit w/PP3, i got from Letgo for $50, complete kit including the short tracker, numerous cables, clips, you name it, and he included a complete LoadPro as well, because it turned out to be a 1 job tool for the guy before me...I know this video is about 4 years old, but I saved it in my folder for future ref...this tool has paid for itself so many times over...one time i needed it to verify an AC blower motor was in fact bad, and when I hit the switch it just started smokin'....CONFIRMED....I was in Gulf Electric Motor in Palm Harbor Florida one time years ago, and they had a sign above the will call counter that said..""All motors come complete with factory installed smoke, if the smoke leaks out or escapes the motor housing, It is NOT warranted"......"Thank You Again !!!!!
This was great dude, excellent knowledge and well explained. I still only use it for lighting up bulbs lol. I have the power probe 3 and once used the meter on it, it showed 1 volt...I didn’t quite trust it, hooked up the dvom, showed 0 volts. Never really trusted it since then.
I don’t have the souped up model like you do but I have used it to verify circuit function on a car I once had and also some circuits on my RV. Is it perfect, well for a quick look at a problem, I think the tool works nicely. However if you still suspect something, then it might be time to use another device. No tool will replace your noggin of knowledge because a tool is only as good as the person using it. If you go to their website, you can get the charts you mentioned in another vid on fuses and this does make checking for parasitic draw much faster IMHO. Thank you for sharing !
Just bought one and I could safely say I would recommend it for anybody working on vehicles , I should’ve got it sooner, it’s small it’s versatile and it has most of the stuff that you need on practical basis… Anyway, great show and… Yeah… I subscribed, anyway… Keep on rockin……..
All that beeping got my cat all upset lol she started fussing cause I disturbed her beauty sleep lol great tool rite there I've never used one but I can see how valuable it is.
I Really Appreciate that You took the Time to explain Power Prob Function. I Did Have it ,and I am going to be Honest. I Did NOT Know Most of its feature till I Watched your Video, simply because I am Not too much of a text manual person. Thank You Very Much.
Just this week I was fabricating a diagnostic adapter to go from GM OBD1 to OBD1.5. In determining the correct wiring for the pins I did see the 160 Baud fluctuations on a PowerProbe 3. Which was interesting at most. That said it obviously wouldn’t provide any intelligible or useful data. Keep the “intelligible” content coming. Seriously it’s spurred revival in diagnostics n my work. Thanks a ton!
THANK YOU FOR THE POWER PROBE TUTORIAL. IT WAS VERY USEFUL AND INFORMATIVE. I'VE CONSIDERED BUYING ONE MYSELF. YES I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE SAME ON THE "HOOK", WHATEVER THAT IS. INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT. I HAVE BOUGHT TOOLS BECAUSE IT WAS COOL AND NEVER USED THEM ASWELL, BUT I DID BUT A SOCKET I SUPPOSE IT'S CALLED TO INSERT IN THE HARMONIC BALANCER TO HOLT WITH A 1/2" RATCHET AND THEN BE ABLE THE REMOVE THE BOLT ON A LEXUS TO DO A TIMING BELT JOB AND NEVER USED IT AGAIN. IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO DO THE JOB WITHOUT IT BUT, IT ATE INTO MY FEE. HAVING NEVER NEEDED IT AGAIN, HAD I HAD KNOWN, I WOULD'VE TURNED DOWN THE JOB PROBABLY. CRAZY. BLESSINGS BROTHER. 🙂💖
After your recent misunderstanding when using the Feed test to check circuit resistance, I tested out my PPIV with a decade box while parallel current is flowing to see how good that resistance check is. I found that on the bench if you don't completely remove the device from an active circuit, the resistance check on the Feed test is at best, disappointingly unreliable (like any multimeter). The claim to the contrary in their manual is disproven. It does not calculate resistance in the whole circuit, and it only works if the resistance you're measuring is between the bat+ and the tip of the meter, AND there is another large resistance downstream. I still like the Feed test option for drop testing, if only because it displays both tip voltage and battery voltage on one screen, so you instantly know if the sag in voltage during drop testing is from a weak battery or from line resistance between the two. You could even pair that with a light bulb for quick and accurate drop testing. I don't think the tiny current the Feed test drives through the tip would significantly influence your numbers. With a device completely removed from the circuit and not powered, resistance checking is within 5% of my Fluke multimeter, not accurate.
Thank you Eric for this demonstration of a power probe IV. Now I have a better understanding of what this can do, and not do. Really, you did far more then most other tool demos show. In a way, I wish you could demo the actron elite, which by the way I purchased because of you, but was hoping someone in utubeland would use it more for diagnostics because we, in the DIY world, don't have access to $2500 and up scanners. You did once say in one of your videos, you would show some of the functions of the Actron elite. What say??
Commenting here before watching the entire video, so apologies if repeating anything... not a big PP fan. Good idea I suppose, but unless the operator really watches his/her p's & q's and absolutely knows what's going on at all times, they can/will cause expensive misery. One thing I do know (at least for earlier versions of the tool), is that a PP switch life can be greatly extended if high amperage circuits are completed via probe tip as opposed to the switch. In other words, energize or ground the probe first via the switch, hold, then complete or ground said higher amperage circuits under test with probe tip. Cool videos, Thanks!
I had a power probe 3 and traded it on a Snap-on Multi Probe EECT900. Sometimes I regret trading it because you have to navigate a menu on the Snapon just to use the basic voltage function, whereas the old PP3 was hook up and go. Lately my Multi Probe has been acting up. There's a delay in the beep, either turning the beep on during testing or turning it off when the tool is not touching the circuit. This makes checking fuses much slower for example. Also it has started giving a ground tone when I hook up a test lead to the tip to get into a tight spot. So it requires a work around or a test light. Today the Autel Powerscan Ps100 was delivered. It seems to be a very handy tool as the the probe tip is very sharp and easily makes contact with tiny fuses that the PP3 and Snapon don't. It doesn't have a configurable circuit breaker like the Snapon but it has some scope ability on the A/C function, although showing the actual A/C voltage would be helpful for alternator tests.
Nice video Eric, not a Pp4 fan, had one for a year. It’s just too big and clunky. Useful for clubbing bad payers to death but totally unwieldy in confined spaces. I’ll give it a 2nd chance because of this video. Thanks for sharing, Steve.
I use my Power Probe 3 almost daily. One thing I really like using it for is testing for power at fuel pumps by myself. I hook it up to the 12 volt feed wire and turn the beeper on. Lower the lift and turn ignition on. If the beeps changes from a low tone (ground) to high pitch (voltage) then I know the pump is getting power. Otherwise someone has to watch a test light or voltmeter while someone turns the ignition on. I also like using it for window motors, door lock actuators, compressors, fans etc.. They are a great tool to have when your daily job requires diagnostics. I plan on buying the 4 but my 3 still works great. I did have to buy an extension cable for bigger trucks.
Great tutorial on the Power Probe 4 Eric. I have the Power Probe 3 and like it. I always use it for battery ground extension for my multimeter. Been considering getting the 4. I do have the Power Probe Multimeter and like it as it is spot on with the readings I get from my Fluke 115. I put a good set of long silicone test leads on the multimeter and like it a lot. Thanks for the video!
I've had the 4 for a while now and rarely use all the functions. Where I currently work I don't get much for diagnosing so if I can't figure it out within the hour I give up tho my mind wants to keep going. I use to be into diagnostics but with the type of work I do now it doesn't pay enough. I really liked the depth you took to explain each function. I really wanna see a alternator with a bad trio diagnosed with the power probe. Or even communication diagnoses with it. Video wasn't long enough.
Thanks for the video. You are very knowledgeable. I have one on order and already have an older power probe and snap-on 's version. They take a little getting used to and your info is above average.
I have a cheap version of a power probe, I do like. After this video once I watch a couple of more times LOL< I will use it more often. Thanks for the video and going the extra mile on it's functions. Very Helpful
LOVE your Power Probe video ... Wish you could use a Wiper Motor as a test example (current issue for me): How to bypass Relay to activate the wipers and explain precisely what that tells you, How to verify if the wiper motor has a good/bad ground connection (think Mini Cooper) - when Relays are fine, Fuse is fine, Wiper switch status unknown since wipers don't work? Love your videos ...
i had the power probe one. used it at modern corp which is a garbage company here in Lewiston NY the weld shop was always burning the wires up in the body of the truck and before this, I use to half to carry around a rig battery with my jumpers but this salved all of that good old 90s lol
I like the analogy of a dim headlight. Let's say the problem was on the ground side of the lamp socket, etc... By removing the lamp to test with the "load removed" - you just molested (messed with) the problem area. For intermittents, etc. - its best to "be ginger" and "sneak up on it" with voltage measurements, not start by removing the load and hoping the "problem" was somewhere else... - But I see the usefulness of the tool in any event!
I have all the multi-meter, snapon, vantage meter, asians meters, harbor freight meter, they just taking dust in my garage. My favorite tool, power probe. 😁😁😁😁😁😁 (not being paid by them, or Eric O 😂😂😂😂😂)
I use the power probe 5 occasionally but not all the time. It's ok and I'm glad I have one. Great informational video Dr.O keep them videos coming.PEACE
I made the best test light ever with a Power Probe 20' extension cable with the battery clips on it. Attach to battery and use the extension cable's banana jacks for a power and ground anywhere around the car. I cut off the clip of my test light and added a banana jack that I can plug into the PP extension cable's power or ground as needed. If I want a normal test light I plug in a banana jack alligator clip but I have yet to use the alligator clip. Best tool ever.
I have a power probe IV and love it. However what I love about it is the ability to provide battery positive or ground. The other features aren't really that useful. They are cool to have. However most of the time a simple test light, jumper, etc serves the function just fine. Also the extra features while neat are no replacement for tools like a multi-meter or oscilloscope.
Ha ha, you know what's funny. After you measured the pulse width on the blower regulator, i paused the video and grabbed a calculator. The moment i start the video again you do the same thing!😂. Great review, does this one not have the voltage reference function?
Everyone in the shop has one. And they seem to be useful and help alot for some guys. I'm not great with electrical. Idk if I will buy a probe 4 but maybe a 3. Idk if the 4 version is worth the extra dough.
I'm not really a power probe guy at all but I bought the snapon one. The thing is, if you are smart enough to not be dangerous with it, you really have no need for it. The *only* reason I bought it is because it makes testing banks of things easier- like banks of valve coils or banks of wires(trailer lighting) and things like that. It is nice I will admit that you can find a shorted valve coil out of many with just the probe tip. But, I've made it all these years without it, so there's that.
"I'm not a Power Probe guy....." - Makes most educational video on Power Probe on the whole internet. Welcome to SMA. Thanks Eric ;)
Markus Krause yeah no kidding I don't know when I'll be able to get one but I've searched for pp3 videos and almost nothing
This!
True story I had to bumblefuck my way through the 4 because their tutorials were not very informative
@@mikeholt3545 😊
who else watches SMA videos both unconscious and conscious? 5 minutes in I'm sleeping . when I wake up I gotta watch it again. This method absorbs the most info. lol
Ed all the damn time. I have them stacked in my watch list. Fall asleep and your whole list has been watched. Well now I have to watched everything.... again
I love Eric! Of course in a brotherly fashion 😂😂😃😎
I have such trouble sleeping at night. Literally can lay in bed for 3+ hours, but I put this on the pillow and I'm out!! 😂
You and my father would get along.. he goes in the office to call the parts house or answer the phone.. look up a schematic... if he's not back in 10 minutes I'd bet my left nut he's snoring in there. Lol
Lol this is the only way I can fall asleep for the past few months 😂
I purchased a Power Probe IV based on an earlier SMA video. As a person coming from a digital electronics background I immediately saw the advantages of what is essentially a digital logic probe for cars. In a nutshell it allows you tell if the thing you're touching with the tip is connected to 12v, ground, or open. The third item there is the key since a plain voltmeter doesn't distinguish between ground and open and reads zero in both cases. I used it on my own car to determine that I had an open ground connection, and by flipping the switch and connecting the tip to ground to bypass the break I could immediately see the result. It made troubleshooting an almost instant event. It may not be a DIY tool for everyone but I was really glad I had it. Thanks for the tip Eric!
I've been using a pp3 for years, great tool, checking fuses, basic circuits, lights, switches etc. I've never accidentally fried a module because I keep my finger off the switch. I've been hunting for decades, and have never accidentally killed anyone or anything because I keep my finger off the trigger.
At 37:38 Eric gives the best explanation of frequency, duty cycle and pulse width I’ve ever heard in my life!!
Then goes on to explain how they relate to each other.
Then does an excellent job of showing an instance of how this info is useful and how using this tool can provide every bit of information you need to make this useful in your diagnostics!
Thank you!!
I've never owned one, been doing things my way for years. A co-worker has one, and it has piqued my interest. This video is really educational and has satisfied my interest. Now, i'm thinking about buying one. Thank you Eric, for such a good video.
I've watched about three or four videos recently on using a Power Probe and yours was by far the best. Great job, Eric! :)
This was good because a lot of new techs would be drawn to buying this because of cost (130.00) and some obvious handy functions. Those same techs might be guilty of not reading the manual to fully understand what this tool can/can't do. This video becomes very helpful in that regard. And you're right. You gave the power probe people at least 3, maybe 4 ideas for improved functionality. I hope they take your ideas into account (power probe 5) and I hope you at least get a free PP5 out of the deal. Thanks Eric.
The power probe 4 is $250 the Ancel PB100 is better for less than $100
I don't see the comparison. Ancel seem just like the other knockoffs out there.
One of the best explanations of the power probes I’ve seen. Great job as usual Eric
I've been watching this channel for a few years now and love it. I some how missed this episode when it came out. I've been wanting a power probe for some time now and ran into a few instances where I thought it would be handy (Mainly for the initial basic function). I got a PP4 for Christmas this year and saw that it had more functions then I was expecting. I decided to jump on UA-cam to see if there was anyone showing how to use all these features and boom! South Main Auto was on top of it. Thank you so much for taking the time to go into detail on the features of this tool.
Watching this video I have learned about this tool and learned more about duty cycles. This Chanel is my favorite out of all the ones like it. Great job! Been watching for 4 years!
I find this tool to be really useful, got me out of a fix more than once, great for diagnosing bad connections and switches/relays, have recently checked injectors with it, and managed to locate a faulty injector using this tool when no other tool I have could.
I enjoyed this although it took a couple of days to go through it and digest it. Thanks for making the effort.
I like the min and max feature so if you're testing for an intermittent short you can wiggly the suspected wire and see if the voltage jumps or cuts off. That is really useful. It's a shame power probes "short finder" wasn't more popular. I thought the concept was awesome but nobody seems to use it. Great instructional video.
I own a Power Probe III and I absolutely love it. I have no desire to get the PP IV though, as the few additional features are not worth it to me. I also use a conventional test light or "scope on a rope" as you call it. Plus the DMM is yet another useful tool, all three honestly have their place, you just need to know how to PROPERLY use them!!
As a amateur car 'mechanic' having no scope this could come in very handy besides my multimeter.
Thanks for the thorough explanation Eric!
Thanks for the these videos. When I first bought my power probe I had no idea how to do use it and now I can. It's awesome for electrical.
Brilliant demo much better than reading instruction book which can sometimes be confusing Thanks.
I was never sold on the power probe but after watching this I’m definitely considering it
I’ve had a powerprobe since the first one and have grown dependent on them and I’ve had the IV for well over a year but have never used that one. Funny thing is, I just got home from a training class on electrical diagnostics and utilizing your tools. And the teacher talked highly of the IV so when I got home I searched a power probe IV video and found this one. I’ve watched several of your videos and I really wish you were one of my technicians. Your definitely a sharp guy. Thanks for contributing your knowledge and experience. I’m like you, I see new cool stuff on the tool truck and I buy it and a lot of them just collect dust. I’m going to try and make my IV the go to tool for quick and easy tests.
Thanks, Eric for taking the time to make the excellent tutorial on the many uses of the Power Probe.
It was very interesting. What an amazing tool !
Hi! The "no alarm" feature when power or ground ccts don't meet battery level is to indicate a high resistance feed, or ground as the case may be. Great video as always. Tnx
Sweet, now I can use mine to it's fullest! I use the hell out of mine for diagnosing circuits, I knew it could do so much more but never had a practical moment to even figure it out. This is a good base to start with.
Eric, I purchased the pp4 a year ago, I use it a lot, great for trailer light diagnosis, I never use the probe tip, I use a 4mm banana lead with either a back probe terminal and or a alligator clamp. Also the ground wire pig tail is very useful. I also like the injector test in this pp4. Also the green and red led's are useful, etc. etc. Anyways it is a useful tool for anyone wanting to purchase one.
Great for you to take the time out to test pp4. I will bookmark this and take more time going through it. Thanks again.
The ECT 2000 is the best tool I've ever found for finding shorts and opens, if the only automotive tool which will do the job. That being said, the use of the tool requires intimate knowledge of the tool and the circuit it is being used on. First issue of understanding is to realize it has two mode of detection, electric field (oscillating voltage on an open wire) and magnetic field from current flow, and it tells you which mode it is using, even to the extent the direction of the current (direction of the detector tip is important).
Most detectors use only the electric field which is usually present over the entire harness of the car due to the vast interconnections, isolation of the wire (disconnect it at the source, apply the signal, then trace) is required to follow the signal. Tracing current flow is much more straight forward because the current is limited to only it's path, but keep in mind the path does include the power feed lines to the signal generator. I believe the current mode kicks in at about 100mA.
I do not work for Power Probe so the description above is only from my use and experience. I agree they should give more technical details of it's operation.
I just picked up a pp3 and I love it, the pp4 has some neat features.
I really enjoy watching you show use how some of your tools are used on a daily life and I greatly appreciate you taking the time out of your day to show use.
love this tool, never steered me wrong and had the pp4 since launch, have a hook also which gets used less but has come in real handy for measuring amps and adjustable circuit breaker etc. pp4 is quick and great, it loads the circuit in feed test mode which is what 99 percent of its users dont utelise.
Just got mine……feed test is when you have the component removed/unhooked correct? Testing for voltage drop/
Loaded resistance in the circuit?
Thanks Eric, you have given me the incentive to take out my PP3, blow off the dust and give out a go.
I have had my PowerProbe for 18 months and have used it 4 times. Found it great as portable power for testing engine fans, cabin fans, power windows, and fuel pumps - since my scan tool has limited bi-directional control. Would never use the PowerProbe for anything else as I am a once monthly DIY and there is too much to memorize for my frequency of use.
Great video. I now understand the usage of my current Power Probe much better. Thanks
The only way to stop a bad guy with a Power Probe is a good guy with a Power probe!
😁😁😁
instaBlaster.
Power probe also offer an adapter to drop voltage on the tip to 5volts to test 5volt circuits
Please make video of best uses w 5 volt
Just bought the 4. Glad you could give a practucal demo that was understandable!
Always used a coworkers power probe over the years. My current shop I work on a lot of custom trucks that paint the roads and grind them. Nothing is the same. I used my bosses power probe for a few weeks straight. Finally picked up one. On the Diesel truck side power probes are awesome. Next is swivel sockets lol . The things I use rarely buy need to buy.
If the light beeps and the voltage shows battery without the load in place , one would have to remember to use that feed test. All to often it's just accepted that the red light and a beep means power . Case in point " Why I don't PP on cars" video. No load in place , they verified power by disconnecting relay and placing tip of power probe to power feed wire . Light went red and beeped of course and test light alone dropped that same power feed to under 1 volt. Hopefully this video will show people a little more about how to use the tool properly and to not be lazy with using the installed functions. Bravo sir .
New Level Auto. One hour PP review from Eric and all I can think is "I hope Keith is ok". 😂😂😂. I know how you feel about this subject. Great job Mr. O
Except that "feed test" only draws 10mA, rendering it pretty much USELESS lol
A very timely video, forgot I had one tucked up in the back of a tool draw, enjoyed watching this as I forgot how to use it, cheers from AUS
The driver test is good for testing at relay cavities and harnesses for solenoids to rule out the driver/module being the culprit. I like to test for live resistance on circuits using "power feed" test. I also like to use Min/Max feature when checking for opens. And I use Fuel Injector testing feature for fast comparison checks of accessible injectors.
Just got mine, feed test mode is when you have the component removed correct? I need to learn how to use this quickly for loaded circuit voltage drop and I think this is what we’re talking about?
And YES! Do one on the hook and perhaps the loadpro. You are a gifted teacher.
I use mine all the time when doing electrical stuff when I'm under the car. The rust belt doesn't leave us with many good grounds under there so it's always nice to have battery ground available!
Thanks for the demo. I'm a show & tell kind of guy. So, descriptive talking point are often over my head. I often get lost in all the minutia. The second half of the demo giving examples was very helpful. A PP is definitely worth a serious consideration for the he DIY guy given the nature of newer cars and endless electronic devices and ECMs.
Thx!😎
the best review of a power probe i ever seen Eric you are the man sir thank you for the education god bless be safe see you on the next one
One of the best tools created...Eric got the fancy one...nice. If I would have had it, it would have saved me many small motors and switches..
Eric O, absolutely love this video tutorial!!! I enjoyed every minute of it. Learned a bit. I don't use one at all. But gives me insight how to use it and test etc!!! Love it
Your knowledge of circuit design and overall vehicle maintenance procedures was well displayed in this video. You quickly showed the pros and cons of this tool and you did it well because of your understanding of what's expected of a circuit. I'd be that guy who is push button happy and blow something up. I do like certain aspects of the tool, but I have to admit, it's beyond my skill level. On a different note, I enjoyed the sneak peak of the Jeep and it's still clean!
Yeah, it's a nice tool. However, one of the many things I've learned from you is that simple is better. So, no PP for me. Thanks Dr. O and nice job!
I use power probes alot for checking actuators and checking things like starters and solenoids to see if they actuate or run
Such a useful tool. Might make my own! Should be fairly simple. I'm the kinda person that always cheaps out and makes my own tools/circuits. I always wanted one of those FM transmitter doodahs for getting audio to car radios that don't have aux input, so decided to make my own instead. Worked well. Ended up broadcasting as far as the next town haha.
Excellent video! Thanks for the review / tutorial. I'd not given that tool much thought before, but considering I'm a poor DIY'er and will never own a full blown scope as you have, this may work. Thanks again and keep up the good work!😁
Thanks Eric, I bought a PP4 and use it for fuse checking and bulbs, but was unsure about the other features.i have saved your video for future use as a visual manual👍 like you i learn by visual aid not by words In a manual
This has to be the best explanation of how to use one of these...especially the PP4...I have the complete service kit w/PP3, i got from Letgo for $50, complete kit including the short tracker, numerous cables, clips, you name it, and he included a complete LoadPro as well, because it turned out to be a 1 job tool for the guy before me...I know this video is about 4 years old, but I saved it in my folder for future ref...this tool has paid for itself so many times over...one time i needed it to verify an AC blower motor was in fact bad, and when I hit the switch it just started smokin'....CONFIRMED....I was in Gulf Electric Motor in Palm Harbor Florida one time years ago, and they had a sign above the will call counter that said..""All motors come complete with factory installed smoke, if the smoke leaks out or escapes the motor housing, It is NOT warranted"......"Thank You Again !!!!!
Just found this ...great explanation.
This was great dude, excellent knowledge and well explained. I still only use it for lighting up bulbs lol. I have the power probe 3 and once used the meter on it, it showed 1 volt...I didn’t quite trust it, hooked up the dvom, showed 0 volts. Never really trusted it since then.
I don’t have the souped up model like you do but I have used it to verify circuit function on a car I once had and also some circuits on my RV.
Is it perfect, well for a quick look at a problem, I think the tool works nicely. However if you still suspect something, then it might be time to use another device. No tool will replace your noggin of knowledge because a tool is only as good as the person using it.
If you go to their website, you can get the charts you mentioned in another vid on fuses and this does make checking for parasitic draw much faster IMHO. Thank you for sharing !
Just bought one and I could safely say I would recommend it for anybody working on vehicles , I should’ve got it sooner, it’s small it’s versatile and it has most of the stuff that you need on practical basis… Anyway, great show and… Yeah… I subscribed, anyway… Keep on rockin……..
All that beeping got my cat all upset lol she started fussing cause I disturbed her beauty sleep lol great tool rite there I've never used one but I can see how valuable it is.
stitting
in the garden with a brandy and the fire going . a sma vid pops up wot a nice end to the weekend
I Really Appreciate that You took the Time to explain Power Prob Function. I Did Have it ,and I am going to be Honest. I Did NOT Know Most of its feature till I Watched your Video, simply because I am Not too much of a text manual person. Thank You Very Much.
Just this week I was fabricating a diagnostic adapter to go from GM OBD1 to OBD1.5. In determining the correct wiring for the pins I did see the 160 Baud fluctuations on a PowerProbe 3. Which was interesting at most. That said it obviously wouldn’t provide any intelligible or useful data.
Keep the “intelligible” content coming. Seriously it’s spurred revival in diagnostics n my work. Thanks a ton!
I am a avid test light user but i have to say i love my power probe and brake clean, power probe never let me down the wrong diagnosis
You're quite the voltage drop, Eric. We still love ya! ;)
THANK YOU FOR THE POWER PROBE TUTORIAL. IT WAS VERY USEFUL AND INFORMATIVE. I'VE CONSIDERED BUYING ONE MYSELF. YES I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE SAME ON THE "HOOK", WHATEVER THAT IS. INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT. I HAVE BOUGHT TOOLS BECAUSE IT WAS COOL AND NEVER USED THEM ASWELL, BUT I DID BUT A SOCKET I SUPPOSE IT'S CALLED TO INSERT IN THE HARMONIC BALANCER TO HOLT WITH A 1/2" RATCHET AND THEN BE ABLE THE REMOVE THE BOLT ON A LEXUS TO DO A TIMING BELT JOB AND NEVER USED IT AGAIN. IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO DO THE JOB WITHOUT IT BUT, IT ATE INTO MY FEE. HAVING NEVER NEEDED IT AGAIN, HAD I HAD KNOWN, I WOULD'VE TURNED DOWN THE JOB PROBABLY. CRAZY. BLESSINGS BROTHER. 🙂💖
After your recent misunderstanding when using the Feed test to check circuit resistance, I tested out my PPIV with a decade box while parallel current is flowing to see how good that resistance check is. I found that on the bench if you don't completely remove the device from an active circuit, the resistance check on the Feed test is at best, disappointingly unreliable (like any multimeter). The claim to the contrary in their manual is disproven. It does not calculate resistance in the whole circuit, and it only works if the resistance you're measuring is between the bat+ and the tip of the meter, AND there is another large resistance downstream. I still like the Feed test option for drop testing, if only because it displays both tip voltage and battery voltage on one screen, so you instantly know if the sag in voltage during drop testing is from a weak battery or from line resistance between the two. You could even pair that with a light bulb for quick and accurate drop testing. I don't think the tiny current the Feed test drives through the tip would significantly influence your numbers. With a device completely removed from the circuit and not powered, resistance checking is within 5% of my Fluke multimeter, not accurate.
Thank you Eric for this demonstration of a power probe IV. Now I have a better understanding of what this can do, and not do. Really, you did far more then most other tool demos show.
In a way, I wish you could demo the actron elite, which by the way I purchased because of you, but was hoping someone in utubeland would use it more for diagnostics because we, in the DIY world, don't have access to $2500 and up scanners. You did once say in one of your videos, you would show some of the functions of the Actron elite. What say??
Commenting here before watching the entire video, so apologies if repeating anything... not a big PP fan. Good idea I suppose, but unless the operator really watches his/her p's & q's and absolutely knows what's going on at all times, they can/will cause expensive misery. One thing I do know (at least for earlier versions of the tool), is that a PP switch life can be greatly extended if high amperage circuits are completed via probe tip as opposed to the switch. In other words, energize or ground the probe first via the switch, hold, then complete or ground said higher amperage circuits under test with probe tip. Cool videos, Thanks!
Those probes can be so handy. Some uses are best not talked about where the sun doesn't shine.
I had a power probe 3 and traded it on a Snap-on Multi Probe EECT900. Sometimes I regret trading it because you have to navigate a menu on the Snapon just to use the basic voltage function, whereas the old PP3 was hook up and go. Lately my Multi Probe has been acting up. There's a delay in the beep, either turning the beep on during testing or turning it off when the tool is not touching the circuit. This makes checking fuses much slower for example. Also it has started giving a ground tone when I hook up a test lead to the tip to get into a tight spot. So it requires a work around or a test light. Today the Autel Powerscan Ps100 was delivered. It seems to be a very handy tool as the the probe tip is very sharp and easily makes contact with tiny fuses that the PP3 and Snapon don't. It doesn't have a configurable circuit breaker like the Snapon but it has some scope ability on the A/C function, although showing the actual A/C voltage would be helpful for alternator tests.
Nice video Eric, not a Pp4 fan, had one for a year. It’s just too big and clunky. Useful for clubbing bad payers to death but totally unwieldy in confined spaces.
I’ll give it a 2nd chance because of this video.
Thanks for sharing, Steve.
Simply Diagnostics easier to wield than that one they made for snap on. You seen the size of that thing 😂
Brett Auto Diagnostic and Repair, true, you could do some serious damage with that big fella 😂
I use my Power Probe 3 almost daily. One thing I really like using it for is testing for power at fuel pumps by myself. I hook it up to the 12 volt feed wire and turn the beeper on. Lower the lift and turn ignition on. If the beeps changes from a low tone (ground) to high pitch (voltage) then I know the pump is getting power. Otherwise someone has to watch a test light or voltmeter while someone turns the ignition on. I also like using it for window motors, door lock actuators, compressors, fans etc.. They are a great tool to have when your daily job requires diagnostics. I plan on buying the 4 but my 3 still works great. I did have to buy an extension cable for bigger trucks.
Thanks for an informative tool review. It was sort of like watching a mule eating briars and smiling like he enjoyed it.
The best ever review on that tool, power probe should give you some kick backs.
Great tutorial on the Power Probe 4 Eric. I have the Power Probe 3 and like it. I always use it for battery ground extension for my multimeter. Been considering getting the 4. I do have the Power Probe Multimeter and like it as it is spot on with the readings I get from my Fluke 115. I put a good set of long silicone test leads on the multimeter and like it a lot. Thanks for the video!
I've had the 4 for a while now and rarely use all the functions. Where I currently work I don't get much for diagnosing so if I can't figure it out within the hour I give up tho my mind wants to keep going. I use to be into diagnostics but with the type of work I do now it doesn't pay enough. I really liked the depth you took to explain each function. I really wanna see a alternator with a bad trio diagnosed with the power probe. Or even communication diagnoses with it. Video wasn't long enough.
Ivan will be so proud of this video
Thanks for the video. You are very knowledgeable. I have one on order and already have an older power probe and snap-on 's version. They take a little getting used to and your info is above average.
I have a cheap version of a power probe, I do like. After this video once I watch a couple of more times LOL< I will use it more often. Thanks for the video and going the extra mile on it's functions. Very Helpful
Looking forward to the next video I take it it's going to be on the load Pro
I like the power probe for testing components like fans and blowers and windows etc but it’s also a very easy way to test fuses
the power probe is a great tool for trailer electrical repairs!
It has made me so much money on semi trailers!
I really enjoyed this session ... you are articulate and most definitely made me laugh here and there due to your particular presentation...
LOVE your Power Probe video ... Wish you could use a Wiper Motor as a test example (current issue for me):
How to bypass Relay to activate the wipers and explain precisely what that tells you,
How to verify if the wiper motor has a good/bad ground connection (think Mini Cooper) - when Relays are fine, Fuse is fine, Wiper switch status unknown since wipers don't work?
Love your videos ...
Thanks for this very informative video. I would surely love to see more videos on the power probe 4
Nice video Eric. Power probe has its place for sure, but not in the wrong hands. Can cause plenty of damage.
i had the power probe one. used it at modern corp which is a garbage company here in Lewiston NY the weld shop was always burning the wires up in the body of the truck and before this, I use to half to carry around a rig battery with my jumpers but this salved all of that good old 90s lol
hockey pokey...right foot in...right foot out...them dancing lessons kickin' in already!
I do have a power probe & i think it is the older version than the 4.It is a good tool .Never had a problem with it.
I like the analogy of a dim headlight. Let's say the problem was on the ground side of the lamp socket, etc... By removing the lamp to test with the "load removed" - you just molested (messed with) the problem area. For intermittents, etc. - its best to "be ginger" and "sneak up on it" with voltage measurements, not start by removing the load and hoping the "problem" was somewhere else... - But I see the usefulness of the tool in any event!
I have all the multi-meter, snapon, vantage meter, asians meters, harbor freight meter, they just taking dust in my garage. My favorite tool, power probe. 😁😁😁😁😁😁 (not being paid by them, or Eric O 😂😂😂😂😂)
I use the power probe 5 occasionally but not all the time. It's ok and I'm glad I have one. Great informational video Dr.O keep them videos coming.PEACE
I have an older version of power probe , but yours is way much better , has more features
I made the best test light ever with a Power Probe 20' extension cable with the battery clips on it. Attach to battery and use the extension cable's banana jacks for a power and ground anywhere around the car. I cut off the clip of my test light and added a banana jack that I can plug into the PP extension cable's power or ground as needed. If I want a normal test light I plug in a banana jack alligator clip but I have yet to use the alligator clip. Best tool ever.
I have a power probe IV and love it. However what I love about it is the ability to provide battery positive or ground. The other features aren't really that useful. They are cool to have. However most of the time a simple test light, jumper, etc serves the function just fine. Also the extra features while neat are no replacement for tools like a multi-meter or oscilloscope.
Your the best! I appreciate you! Manny from the Bronx...
Thanx
Ha ha, you know what's funny. After you measured the pulse width on the blower regulator, i paused the video and grabbed a calculator. The moment i start the video again you do the same thing!😂. Great review, does this one not have the voltage reference function?
Just baught the IV thanx to this vid...ty SMA
This was an excellent video, very fair and informative.
Everyone in the shop has one. And they seem to be useful and help alot for some guys. I'm not great with electrical. Idk if I will buy a probe 4 but maybe a 3. Idk if the 4 version is worth the extra dough.
Still rocking the OG PP1, does what I need and love it!
I can't justify getting a new version.
🤨
I'm not really a power probe guy at all but I bought the snapon one. The thing is, if you are smart enough to not be dangerous with it, you really have no need for it. The *only* reason I bought it is because it makes testing banks of things easier- like banks of valve coils or banks of wires(trailer lighting) and things like that. It is nice I will admit that you can find a shorted valve coil out of many with just the probe tip.
But, I've made it all these years without it, so there's that.