Navigating the complexities of RV maintenance, especially for owners of Workhorse chassis vehicles, can often feel like charting unknown territory. Many RV owners and even repair shops find themselves challenged when it comes to diagnosing issues on these robust platforms, particularly those equipped with the reliable 8.1 liter GM engine. However, there’s a powerful tool that can bring clarity and precision to your RV repair endeavors: the Tech 2 scanner. This article delves into the world of the Tech 2 scanner and how it can be an indispensable asset for Workhorse chassis RV owners seeking effective diagnostics and repair solutions.
For those unfamiliar, the Tech 2 scanner is a professional-grade diagnostic tool originally designed for GM vehicles. Its capabilities extend far beyond basic OBD2 scanners, offering in-depth access to vehicle systems, sensor readings, and crucial diagnostic functions. This level of access is particularly vital when dealing with the intricate systems of a Workhorse chassis RV.
My own journey with the Tech 2 scanner began out of necessity and frustration. Owning a Workhorse chassis RV, I encountered the growing challenge of finding dealerships or repair shops willing or equipped to work on these vehicles. Hearing stories of dealerships turning away Workhorse chassis RVs became increasingly common. Faced with this limited support and after a costly and ultimately fruitless experience with a repair shop, I decided to take matters into my own hands and invest in a Tech 2 scanner.
Initially, there was a slight learning curve. My Tech 2 scanner arrived with GM card version 33.004. A quick search online revealed some initial confusion – some users reported that Workhorse vehicle selection was available on version 33.003, but seemingly absent in 33.004. However, further investigation and hands-on testing revealed that Workhorse is indeed listed on version 33.004, specifically for chassis built from 2004 onwards. For older models, like my 2002 chassis, a workaround is readily available: simply select the model year, then navigate to “Medium sized trucks” and choose the appropriate engine size, in my case, the 8.1 liter GM Vortec. This simple adjustment unlocked the scanner’s full potential for my older Workhorse chassis.
The immediate benefits of the Tech 2 scanner were quickly apparent. My first tasks included performing a crankshaft sensor relearn and camshaft sensor relearn, procedures crucial for engine timing and performance after certain repairs or component replacements. But the real revelation came when tackling a persistent cruise control issue.
Before using the Tech 2, I was operating in the dark, ready to replace the entire cruise/signal light switch assembly – a potentially expensive and labor-intensive undertaking. However, the Tech 2 scanner provided immediate, actionable data. Upon running a diagnostic scan, it pinpointed the problem: the brake light switch was registering as constantly engaged, even when the brakes were not applied. Cruise control systems are designed to disengage if the brake switch is activated, a safety feature to prevent unintended acceleration. The Tech 2 clearly displayed this brake light switch issue, leading to a simple yet effective solution. A minor adjustment to the brake light switch itself was all it took. The Tech 2 confirmed the switch was now correctly released when the brake pedal was not pressed, and just like that, the cruise control was back in perfect working order. This single diagnosis likely saved me hundreds of dollars and hours of unnecessary work.
This experience underscored the Tech 2’s ability to move beyond guesswork and provide concrete answers. Instead of blindly replacing parts and hoping for a fix, the Tech 2 empowers you to understand the root cause of the problem. This point was further reinforced when dealing with a frustrating P0342 code, indicating a camshaft position sensor issue.
Prior to acquiring the Tech 2 and embracing DIY diagnostics, I had entrusted my RV to a highly recommended truck and RV repair shop to address the P0342 code, along with symptoms of low MPG, engine backfiring, and occasional hard starts. Despite their “expertise,” and a significant $1,500 bill, the shop’s approach was to replace parts – camshaft sensors, crankshaft sensors, and even the ECM and TCM – without truly identifying the underlying issue. The P0342 code persisted, along with all the original symptoms. It was a costly lesson in the limitations of even “reputable” shops when dealing with specialized RV chassis and diagnostics.
Determined to resolve the problem myself, I turned to the GM engine repair manual for the 8.1 liter engine. The manual suggested a potential cause for the P0342 code: a wiring fault in the camshaft sensor circuit. Equipped with a Power Probe 4 and its short/open circuit tester, I methodically traced the camshaft sensor signal wire. The probe led me to a break in the wire, located near the AC tubing. Repairing this broken wire proved to be the actual solution. The P0342 code vanished, and the engine performance dramatically improved – no more backfiring, restored fuel economy, and reliable starts.
While the Power Probe helped pinpoint the wiring issue, the Tech 2 scanner played a crucial role in confirming the fix and ensuring optimal engine performance. After repairing the wire, I used the Tech 2 to perform the camshaft and crankshaft sensor relearn procedures, synchronizing the sensors and the engine control module for precise timing.
In conclusion, the Tech 2 scanner has proven to be an invaluable tool for maintaining and repairing my Workhorse chassis RV. It offers a level of diagnostic capability that surpasses generic scanners and often exceeds the resources available at many repair shops. For Workhorse RV owners, especially those with the 8.1 liter GM engine, the Tech 2 is more than just a scanner; it’s a key to understanding your vehicle’s intricate systems, accurately diagnosing problems, saving significant money on parts and labor, and gaining confidence in tackling RV maintenance yourself. In a landscape where specialized support for Workhorse chassis RVs can be limited, owning a Tech 2 scanner empowers you to be your own best RV technician.
