Power Probe 2 vs Power Probe 3

[Farmall 1066]

Have had my PP2 for several years, and picked up a PP3 this weekend.
Other than the onboard voltmeter, is there much else different?

I work on mostly tractors, combines and Ag stuff, ranging from fairly new, on back into the 1930's, so not a lot of modern electronics to deal with....usually!
I'd say most of what I'm working on is 20-30 years old, on average.
Love my PP2 for trailer wiring, think I'll love the PP3 even more!

 

[geartow]

I would like to know also I bought a pp2 from a retiring guy.

 

[Farmall 1066]

Anyone?

 

[dcbigsky]

Hope either one has better instructions then the power probe IV. Think their pretty lax at good instructions how to use them to full extent, especially a tool that could kill an ECM. Kinda bad when your waiting for people on line to post on utube detailed instructions on how to use a power probe IV being the videos by power probe are pretty vague . I know a few older techs that are interested but not willing to buy something that has that poor of instructions. I broke down and bought one and now I know what they were thinking ...... yep maybe should have waited. Saw on line that some were complaining about support. Thought it was just them..... ahhhh maybe not lol

 

[Vigo]

Eh, i think a power probe is one of those tools that you either know enough about electricity to immediately recognize the danger of, OR you don't need an instruction pamphlet for a tool, you need an actual course on electrical. I don't feel this is being ****** but i'm open to other opinions. I think it would be extremely difficult to write a thorough instruction manual for a power probe that either wasn't loaded with C.Y.A. policy from the manufacturer, or wasn't so long noone would read it. Youd have to focus on just the 'special' functions of the tool and just not touch the really open-ended possibilities of all the ways you could use the power/ground function. I've used mine with the power and ground leads hooked up to a starter motor and the probe end clipped to its own ground lead as a remote starter switch. The possibilities are vast.

Think of it as a short-to-power/short-to-ground tool. I know they have many other functions (some of them are pretty surprising) but that's the one that will get you into trouble.

 

[dcbigsky]

vigo, I'm guessing you have a power probe 1, 2, or 3. I looked at the instructions to those. Yes you probably could learn to use that pretty easily without a instruction book. Don't think you could with a power probe IV, but then you may be smarter then a lot of us. Just in case you didn't look at a Iv instruction book, tho you probably wouldn't need it http://www.powerprobe.com/images/manuals/PP4 Manual.PDF

 

[mrjaw14]

the 2 can test/apply power or ground. The 3 has a volt meter. the 4 has a better meter that measures more than voltage, it can also do resistance measurements and other tests.

Personally the 3 would be enough, if I'm going after resistance checks I'm going for a better meter that's easier to use. PP 2 would be enough for basic power ground checks, but I see the value of an on board meter

 

[WhiffySpark]

vigo, I'm guessing you have a power probe 1, 2, or 3. I looked at the instructions to those. Yes you probably could learn to use that pretty easily without a instruction book. Don't think you could with a power probe IV, but then you may be smarter then a lot of us. Just in case you didn't look at a Iv instruction book, tho you probably wouldn't need it http://www.powerprobe.com/images/manuals/PP4 Manual.PDF

You have to understand what you're using. I personally think the instructions are gauge so someone that doesn't understand what they're doing doesn't kill something. A power probe isn't a toy. I use mine at least a few times a week

 

[stage20]

i bought one with some matco wrenches from a guy that needed some money. sold the wrenches and got a free power probe. its brand new. i love the way you can pierce a wire, send voltage, etc.... i have enough knowledge to know i shouldnt use it for some jobs. i talked to a tech buddy of mine and he kinda giggled when i asked him some tips on testing or running power to a circuit. im sure he has seen some burnt **** from people who dont understand they can fry things.

 

[dalehsc]

I have a 2 and it's a wonderful tool for 12v use. Anything pulse width,varying voltages, or less than 12v----a DVOM is the tool

Checking 12v systems it's my favorite "tester" I bought the adapter kit with the piercing probes & several banana style clips and they make a tight connection and are adaptable to many wire connectors

 

[MatcoDave]

- Power Probe IV overall Demo Video

- PP IV injector test demo

- PP IV Driver test mode Demo

As for the 2 vs the 3 the only difference is the voltage read out.

 

[Farmall 1066]

Tonight's project is a 1941 Farmall H, with 6v, positive ground. Doubt I'm going to use it there! Lol!