For automotive enthusiasts and those looking to enhance their vehicle’s instrumentation, accessing real-time data from your car’s computer is a game-changer. The BIM-01-2 OBD-II Interface is engineered to bridge the gap between your vehicle’s OBD2 port and Dakota Digital instrument systems, allowing you to seamlessly integrate a digital cluster and monitor vital engine and transmission statistics. This interface taps directly into your engine diagnostic port, extracting a wealth of information directly from your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM).
What Data Can You Access?
With the BIM-01-2, you can display a range of crucial data on compatible Dakota Digital systems, enhancing your driving experience and providing valuable insights into your vehicle’s performance. The standard data set available on most vehicles includes:
- Speedometer: Accurate speed readings for precise monitoring.
- Tachometer: Engine RPM data to keep track of engine performance.
- Engine Temperature: Essential for monitoring engine health and preventing overheating.
- Check Engine Indicator: Access to your vehicle’s diagnostic trouble codes.
Beyond these common parameters, the BIM-01-2 can also access vehicle-specific data, depending on your car’s ECM and sensor configuration. This extended data can include:
- Intake Air Temperature: Monitoring the temperature of air entering your engine.
- Transmission Temperature: Crucial for maintaining optimal transmission health, especially under load.
- Ambient Air Temperature: The temperature outside your vehicle.
- Gear Position: Know your current gear selection (availability varies).
- Oil Pressure: Real-time oil pressure readings for engine lubrication monitoring.
- Boost Pressure: For turbocharged vehicles, monitor boost levels.
It’s important to note that while the BIM-01-2 is designed to access this extended data, the availability and accuracy of parameters like Intake Temp, Transmission Temp, Ambient Air Temp, Oil Pressure, Boost, and Gear Position are dependent on your vehicle’s ECM and the presence of functioning OEM sensors. Dakota Digital cannot guarantee the presence or accuracy of these vehicle-specific readings as it relies on the data broadcast by your car’s computer.
Compatibility and System Requirements
The BIM-01-2 is specifically designed to work with Dakota Digital’s GRFX, RTX, HDX, VHX, and VFD3 instrument systems that utilize a black plastic control module. If you have a BIM-compatible control box with a 3.5mm headphone jack BIM input, you’ll need the 394194 adaptor harness. It’s crucial to understand that earlier Dakota Digital instrument systems with an aluminum control module are not compatible with BIM connectivity.
This interface is engineered for vehicles using J1850 and CAN OBD-II protocols. It is compatible with OBD-II protocols SAE J1850 VPW, SAE J1850 PWM, and ISO 15765 CAN 500k 11-bit identifiers following the SAE J1979 PID protocol. If you are uncertain about your vehicle’s compatibility, it’s always recommended to contact Dakota Digital’s sales or tech department for verification before purchase.
Important Considerations
A key limitation to be aware of is that GM Connect & Cruise packages do not transmit gear position data. Consequently, if you are using a GM Connect & Cruise system, the BIM-01-2 will not be able to acquire gear position information.
In conclusion, the BIM-01-2 OBD-II Interface offers a powerful and convenient way to connect digital clusters to your vehicle’s OBD2 system. By unlocking a wealth of engine and transmission data, it provides valuable insights and enhances the functionality of your Dakota Digital instrumentation. Always ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle and Dakota Digital system to maximize its benefits.
