Are you looking to monitor your car’s vitals like oil temperature and pressure using the Torque Pro app, especially for a custom engine swap like an LM7 into a classic C10? You’re on the right track! Torque Pro is indeed a cost-effective and popular choice for displaying real-time data and performing diagnostics. The key to unlocking Torque Pro’s full potential, however, lies in choosing the right OBD2 scanner.
While Torque Pro itself is a capable app, its performance heavily depends on the OBD2 adapter you use to connect to your vehicle’s computer (PCM). Many users gravitate towards Bluetooth ELM327 and ELM327 clone devices due to their affordability and ease of use. Let’s dive into which OBD2 scanners work best with Torque Pro, considering different needs and budgets.
For users serious about diagnostics, data logging, and getting the most out of Torque Pro, especially with older PCM systems like the 0411 commonly found in LM7 swaps, a genuine ELM327 adapter is highly recommended. The OBD-Link LX stands out as the best value in this category. It houses a genuine ELM327 chip, ensuring reliable performance and fast data transfer speeds. Users have reported achieving update speeds of up to 60-70 PIDs per second, depending on the PCM’s processing capabilities. This speed is crucial for smooth, real-time monitoring of multiple parameters simultaneously.
Beyond just monitoring, the OBD-Link LX also shines when it comes to tuning your 0411 PCM. It’s compatible with popular software like LS Droid and PCM Hammer, allowing you to download and upload calibration data. This opens doors for custom tuning – whether you’re adjusting parameters yourself with tuning software or collaborating with a professional tuner remotely. The OBD-Link LX facilitates seamless communication for calibration updates.
If your automotive interests extend to newer vehicles with advanced CAN bus systems, the OBD-Link MX+ is the superior choice. It supports all CAN protocols and is designed to work flawlessly with modern cars, while retaining compatibility with older systems. Like the LX, the MX+ is also reported to be compatible with PCM Hammer for tuning purposes on supported vehicles. Investing in the MX+ future-proofs your setup as you work on a wider range of vehicles.
For users primarily interested in using Torque Pro as “glass gauges” for monitoring basic parameters without deep diagnostics or tuning, budget-friendly options exist. Among the cheaper “clone” adapters, the BAFX Pro adapter, readily available on platforms like Amazon, has proven to be a reliable pick. While not as fast as the OBD-Link devices, the BAFX Pro still offers respectable update speeds of around 35 PIDs per second on faster PCMs, which is sufficient for basic monitoring needs.
However, a word of caution regarding cheaper clone adapters: quality and reliability can vary significantly. At best, some may cause your Torque Pro app to freeze or become unresponsive. In worst-case scenarios, faulty clone adapters have been reported to potentially corrupt a PCM, particularly when used with bi-directional apps that send commands to the vehicle’s computer. Therefore, carefully consider the source and reviews if opting for a generic ELM327 adapter.
In conclusion, for the best OBD2 experience with Torque Pro, especially if you plan on diagnostics, tuning (particularly with 0411 PCMs), or working with newer vehicles, the OBD-Link LX and MX+ are the top recommendations. If your needs are limited to basic “glass gauge” monitoring and budget is a primary concern, the BAFX Pro offers a reasonable balance of performance and affordability. Choose wisely based on your intended use and enjoy the powerful vehicle insights Torque Pro can provide!
