Experiencing intermittent connection problems between your Accessport Mini USB and your vehicle’s OBD2 port? A loose or weak connection can disrupt data logging and ECU flashing, leading to frustration and potential issues. This guide provides a DIY solution to enhance the physical connection and ensure a stable link for your Accessport device. By carefully thickening the pins on your Accessport Mini USB connector, you can achieve a more reliable OBD2 interface.
Understanding the Problem: Weak OBD-II Connection
The factory pins on some Accessport Mini Usb To Obd2 dongles can sometimes be slightly undersized, leading to a less-than-perfect fit in the OBD-II port. This can result in wiggling, disconnects, and interrupted data transmission, especially in environments with vibrations or movement. Before considering replacing your entire Accessport setup, a simple modification can significantly improve the connection reliability.
DIY Solution: Thickening Accessport Pins
This method involves adding a small amount of solder to the pins of your Accessport Mini USB connector. This increases the pin thickness, creating a tighter and more secure fit within the OBD-II port. This is a cost-effective and relatively easy DIY fix for users comfortable with basic soldering.
Materials Needed
- Soldering iron and solder
- Solder wick (optional, for removing excess solder)
- Measuring tool (calipers or ruler with fine graduations)
Step-by-Step Guide to Solder Pin Thickening
Step 1: Measure Pin Thickness
Before applying any solder, it’s important to understand the original pin thickness. Use a caliper to measure the thickness of a pin on your Accessport Mini USB connector. The original pin thickness is approximately 0.032 inches. This measurement serves as your baseline for thickening.
Step 2: Apply Solder
Carefully apply solder to the end of each pin. The goal is to increase the thickness by approximately 0.030 inches. Remember these key soldering tips:
- Heat the Pin, Not the Solder: Apply heat from the soldering iron directly to the pin.
- Add Solder to the Pin: Once the pin is heated, touch the solder directly to the pin, allowing it to flow and adhere.
- Control Heat Application: Avoid prolonged heat exposure to the pin, which can cause solder to flow down towards the wire. Aim for a solder “bubble” at the pin tip.
- Shape the Solder: Try to achieve a rounded solder shape, avoiding sharp “icicles” that could hinder insertion.
Step 3: Check and Adjust
After soldering, measure the pin thickness again. Aim for a final thickness between 0.060″ and 0.065″. Avoid exceeding 0.070″ as this may make it difficult to insert the dongle into the OBD-II port. If you apply too much solder, use a solder wick to carefully remove the excess and start again.
Testing and Results
Once the solder has cooled, carefully reinstall the pins and reassemble your Accessport dongle. Connect the modified Accessport Mini USB to OBD2 adapter to your vehicle’s OBD-II port and test the connection. You should notice a more secure and stable fit. Try gently wiggling the dongle to confirm the connection remains solid without any data loss.
Conclusion
By thickening the pins on your Accessport Mini USB to OBD2 connector, you can effectively eliminate common OBD-II connection issues. This simple soldering technique provides a robust and reliable link, ensuring uninterrupted communication between your Accessport and your vehicle’s ECU. Enjoy smoother data logging and ECU flashing with your improved Accessport connection.
