Special Service Tools

• Scan tool is a bare minimum

• Laptop offers the best protection against early obsolescence

–Easy capture of data

–More universal as to the brand of engine

–Email captured files for help

–Build your own “Database”of captured data

–Upgrades more easily produced, often only software

The long list of codes that can be set on today's MEFI 4 and 4b systems will limit the usefulness of a “winkieblinky”tool. It is almost impossible to service the engine without a scan tool. The Tech-Mate, DDT and VP2000 are durable and well suited for the typicalboat environment, but all pale compared to a laptop’s capability. The VP2000 will no longer be supported with the introduction of the Electronic Gas Control (EGC) engines during the summer of 2005.

A used computer running Windows 98 or higher, can be found at a reasonable price at many computer shows around the country. With the future marine systems that will be introduced, this option allows the greatest potential for upgrade ability and flexibility.