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02-01-2021, 04:23 PM
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#1
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Mini-Skoolie
Join Date: Jan 2021
Location: Elgin, TX
Posts: 29
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USB Data Link choices
I need a data link. I've been reading a lot of threads about the BlueFire, and Nexiq and Nexiq clones, and the Grandview.
I'm thinking I'll get either the Grandview
https://www.my-grandview.com/store/p...w_USB_Kit.html
Or a nexiq clone off eBay
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEXIQ-USB-L...l/114628295051
My question is, is the cheap clone one ok? I read in some threads that folks had some issues, but they didn't say if they got them resolved. Others said it works just fine. I'm concerned with having unreliable data. Is the Grandview worth paying double? Is there anything the Grandview can do that the Nexiq clone can't?
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02-01-2021, 09:00 PM
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#2
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Oct 2018
Location: Central Alabama
Posts: 543
Year: 1998
Coachwork: Blue Bird
Chassis: TC/2000
Engine: 5.9 Cummins 12-valve
Rated Cap: 1
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Quote:
Originally Posted by wanderingturtl
I need a data link. I've been reading a lot of threads about the BlueFire, and Nexiq and Nexiq clones, and the Grandview.
I'm thinking I'll get either the Grandview
https://www.my-grandview.com/store/p...w_USB_Kit.html
Or a nexiq clone off eBay
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEXIQ-USB-L...l/114628295051
My question is, is the cheap clone one ok? I read in some threads that folks had some issues, but they didn't say if they got them resolved. Others said it works just fine. I'm concerned with having unreliable data. Is the Grandview worth paying double? Is there anything the Grandview can do that the Nexiq clone can't?
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I'm probably not the one to compare the Grandview and the clone but I have the usb 2 clone and it seems to work fine with the software on a dedicated laptop running win7. If I needed something on a daily basis then I would gone with the Grandview for the warranty and support. So far, I have only used the clone with the International chassis with ServiceMaxx software.
You mentioned BlueFire which I also have. It has been a challenge. I tried to use it with my phone but it will lose Bluetooth connection after a few minutes. What concerns me is that it may not work with a tablet when using it for the dash function, which is it's main purpose. However, I have used it to read info for Cats, Cummins and Internationals without any issues. It helps that it is small which allows for quick readings of mileage and such before bidding.
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02-08-2021, 10:42 AM
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#3
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Bus Geek
Join Date: May 2014
Location: West Ohio
Posts: 3,707
Year: 1984
Coachwork: Bluebird
Chassis: International 1753
Engine: 6.9 International
Rated Cap: 65
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Why don't you tell us what you're trying to do with the datalink. That will determine which device is suitable.
The usblink clones work okay, just don't try to update the software for them from nexiq. I've heard people have had issues doing that and bricking the device.
If you're looking to run diagnostics and troubleshooting, the nexiq clone when used with oem software works well for most. It won't do newer vehicles, but most on here aren't working on newer vehicles, so it's a non-issue.
If you're wanting to do a digital dash or watch certain parameters, then the bluefire or silverleaf options are what you want. Christopher(cadillackid) will be of more help regarding that, he runs a dual tablet digital gauge setup in his redbyrd bus I believe.
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02-09-2021, 11:22 AM
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#4
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Mini-Skoolie
Join Date: Jan 2021
Location: Elgin, TX
Posts: 29
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Booyah45828
Why don't you tell us what you're trying to do with the datalink. That will determine which device is suitable.
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Primarily troubleshooting for now. Later, perhaps reprogramming PCMs, if possible.
I bought a Grandview and a Nexiq clone. So far I've only used the Grandview. I have some learning to do with the software.I used to use TunerPro on 90s GM products so perhaps that gives me some basis of understanding.
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02-09-2021, 01:40 PM
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#5
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Bus Crazy
Join Date: May 2016
Location: Georgia
Posts: 2,264
Year: 2001
Coachwork: Blue Bird
Chassis: IH
Engine: T444E
Rated Cap: 14
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I bought a clone and it worked fine with the ServiceMaxx software. I have yet to try it on any other brand of vehicle.
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02-09-2021, 02:54 PM
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#6
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Bus Geek
Join Date: May 2014
Location: West Ohio
Posts: 3,707
Year: 1984
Coachwork: Bluebird
Chassis: International 1753
Engine: 6.9 International
Rated Cap: 65
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The clone with servicemaxx is what you'll want. Nexiq has their own software, amongst others, but servicemaxx was the factory software for navistar and is easily enough attained.
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02-11-2021, 11:15 AM
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#7
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Aug 2019
Location: Auburn, WA
Posts: 785
Year: 2000
Coachwork: IC / Amtran
Chassis: 3000 / 33' Flat Nose
Engine: IC T444E / Allison MT643
Rated Cap: 72 Kids / 48 Adults
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I bought the Grandview and am impressed with the quality of the cables and unit in general.
I had an issue with the ServiceMaxx software loading, giving a message that the software was not shut down properly and then closing.
I found that if I first turn the key to KOEO (key on engine off), plug in the USB and then the 9pin, everything connects up and works as desired.
The free serviemaxx software gives a lot of information. I changed out my differential and was able to reset several parameters that (haven't tested yet) will make my speedometer read correctly. I also turned on my cruise control (fingers crossed!). Considering what IC dealers wanted to do the same thing, buying my own setup was a no brainer.
The guy that makes and sells the Grandview was excellent. Give him a call if you want before buying.
__________________
Steve
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02-12-2021, 12:29 AM
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#8
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Jan 2021
Location: On the road
Posts: 348
Year: 2013
Chassis: IC RE
Engine: HT570 / 3500SP
Rated Cap: 4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BamaBus
I'm probably not the one to compare the Grandview and the clone but I have the usb 2 clone and it seems to work fine with the software on a dedicated laptop running win7. If I needed something on a daily basis then I would gone with the Grandview for the warranty and support. So far, I have only used the clone with the International chassis with ServiceMaxx software.
You mentioned BlueFire which I also have. It has been a challenge. I tried to use it with my phone but it will lose Bluetooth connection after a few minutes. What concerns me is that it may not work with a tablet when using it for the dash function, which is it's main purpose. However, I have used it to read info for Cats, Cummins and Internationals without any issues. It helps that it is small which allows for quick readings of mileage and such before bidding.
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The Bluefire works very well on a tablet. Adds some useful missing infos from the dashboard (oil temperature for both engine and transmission, boost pressure, load, etc.).
The only thing I can't get to work is the air pressure, that's why I have to keep the dashboard (for now).
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02-12-2021, 11:01 AM
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#9
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Aug 2019
Location: Auburn, WA
Posts: 785
Year: 2000
Coachwork: IC / Amtran
Chassis: 3000 / 33' Flat Nose
Engine: IC T444E / Allison MT643
Rated Cap: 72 Kids / 48 Adults
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I was so stoked yesterday when I read about the Bluefire! And, the company is only about 10 miles as the crow flies from me.
I still need a separate EGT, but it should give me the other parameters I want. I'll also use the tablet for a wireless back up camera monitor and navigation.
I've searched for CadillacKid posts about a glass dash, yet the ones I find are pretty deep about coding and such. Over my head. If Christopher sees this, I'd appreciate seeing and knowing how you put your glass dash together.
__________________
Steve
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05-20-2021, 06:22 PM
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#10
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Mar 2021
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 638
Year: 2009
Coachwork: Gillig
Chassis: G27E102
Engine: Cummins ISL 280
Rated Cap: 26,000 lbs
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Simplicity
I bought the Grandview and am impressed with the quality of the cables and unit in general.
I had an issue with the ServiceMaxx software loading, giving a message that the software was not shut down properly and then closing.
I found that if I first turn the key to KOEO (key on engine off), plug in the USB and then the 9pin, everything connects up and works as desired.
The free serviemaxx software gives a lot of information. I changed out my differential and was able to reset several parameters that (haven't tested yet) will make my speedometer read correctly. I also turned on my cruise control (fingers crossed!). Considering what IC dealers wanted to do the same thing, buying my own setup was a no brainer.
The guy that makes and sells the Grandview was excellent. Give him a call if you want before buying.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Simplicity
I bought the Grandview and am impressed....
The guy that makes and sells the Grandview was excellent. Give him a call if you want before buying.
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Thanks for posting this. So I got myself one too. I can’t wait to try it out!
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05-20-2021, 06:24 PM
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#11
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Mar 2021
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 638
Year: 2009
Coachwork: Gillig
Chassis: G27E102
Engine: Cummins ISL 280
Rated Cap: 26,000 lbs
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Oh, the reason I’m using the medieval laptop is, well, that it is dedicated to J1939 work, and also because I scraped an equally vintage copy of Cummins Insite from the corners of the internet that your mother told you to stay away from.
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05-20-2021, 06:48 PM
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#12
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Bus Nut
Join Date: Mar 2021
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 638
Year: 2009
Coachwork: Gillig
Chassis: G27E102
Engine: Cummins ISL 280
Rated Cap: 26,000 lbs
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It’s in times like this that I wish I had a driveway and not live in New York City. I’ll have to wait till tomorrow.
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