I have been reading and reading and still can't find what it is exactly I need to read codes from my 94 Z28. It has that weird computer that jumping the terminals does nothing and am OBD 2 reader won't fit. I have an obd 2 reader, can I use a 12 pin to 16 pin adapter and read the codes? I don't need tuning or anything at the moment, I just want to read the codes.

 

For the umpteenth time.
1) The 94 is straight OBDI
2) The codes cannot be flashed by shorting the pins
3) An OBDI scanner is needed to read the codes
4) The cheap code readers that claim they can read all GM OBDI codes do not work.
5) A scanner that only reads ODDII won't work either.

 

Um, so yeah. I'm asking like what brand. I see lots of them. Which will work.

 

Look for a scanner that is capable of both OBDI and OBDII, so that you can also use on newer cars, 1996 and up. But, remember you need a scanner, not a plain code reader. Actron & Auto X Ray for occasional use, or high end ones like OTC, SnapOn, or factory tools for professional work. The professional grade ones are bidirectional, and can send signals to compo nets, such as EGR valves, etc.. do your homework carefully and read the specs carefully before buying. You can also get software and adapter cables for a laptop, and save a few dollars.

 

I'm just confused that if it is indeed "straight OBDI", then why does shorting pin a&b together not flash the codes like every other straight OBDI car I have owned.

 

because thats the way camaros are. the 93 would flash, 94 needed a obd1 scanner, 95 needed a obdII scanner that would read obd1 codes, and 96 is straight up obdII.

 

Actron (the expensive ones) will read codes with the right connector. I own a 9145 but it's been replaced /upgraded by Actron. You may also need to get a power cable from Actron for it. The 95's supply the power but i'm not sure about the 94's

the "old style" port is called an ALDL port