When I was in high school electronics shop class, I watched the instructor fry a $25,000 airplane component he was repairing with power applied to the wrong circuit. No sooner did he touch the power to the circuit than it was smoke followed by a lot of cursing. He used it as an object lesson for all of us, and it was something that stuck hard.
The Power Probe has a 5v adapter for applying a 5v signal voltage, as well as a current adapter. You have to read up on them, but when used correctly they can be a real asset. I have both and have used them in some of my diagnostics. 57 year tech/shop owner/instructor (Community College)/Trainer.
I love this video. It's the perfect dichotomy of this channel. You're giving sound advice with a stern expression and cadence and we see a dog in uniform walking around looking for work.
This man is speaking facts right here 👍🏻. Been using power probes for years and have never once lit up the smoke. I rarely actually ever hit the button into a circuit but when I do I am super “paranoid” about making damn sure I know every ounce of that circuit before I push the button and that’s the only way to do it
You should do a video on the relay bypass switches. It's really been helpful for me to have the common set that's sold to be able to #1 see if a particular relay isn't functioning and #2 to be able to easily command certain functions to operate instead of having to wait for the ECU to do it when it's supposed to happen. It would also allow you to explain relays a bit further as I have found that many people who aren't directly involved in the field really understand the how and why, and also how the circuit diagram works. I really think that this topic has been neglected from what I have seen.
Retired now but I used an incandescent a LED and Power Probe for electrical diagnosis and each one has a benefit, I loved the power probe when it first came out. But I never trusted the voltmeter in it as it is not accurate. Good video.
I would love more powerprobe lessions i understand it more then scoping i just bought a 2 channel scope and im gonna play around with it see if i can get familiar and train myself with it but i would love more tests with the probe!!!
I'm just a casual car hobbyist and for years I haven't been able to get my head around auto electrics. This channel makes so many things make sense. Thank you so much!
This was a great video. However, I’ve seen technicians warn about this but no videos explain how to be 100% certain you aren’t going to fry something. Could you elaborate how to be certain with a wiring diagram or something to show us how not to fry a module or whatever else?
What about the tone and probe tools used to locate hidden shorts in wires. Can these tools also destroy computer modules if connected to a car circuit?
Nice video. I don't actually own a PP but do own two 20' PP leads, the cigarette adapter, and the adapter that hooks on to the batter to put power to the PP leads. I use them all to have a power and ground wherever I need on on the vehicle. I do own the Innova version of a PP that they discontinued and have used it a couple of times but usually just use an incandescent test light and multimeter.
They ought to sell the tip/probe part with various resistive loads built in. You could have a tip that limits current to say 300 mA to avoid frying a module.
Just subscribed about two weeks ago. love your videos. I do not do automotive work, but I own a Heavy Truck shop in Virginia. I understand the temptation to push the button. I had to smile. I have had that same temptation. Glad you also bring out information on the LED test light. I do not use them as they will throw you a curve ball. Nothing like old school test lights. I am old school. 69 years old and still put in 12 hours plus every day on heavy trucks. All that said I am using a load pro tester at times with a voltmeter. What are your thoughts on the load pro and maybe if you also use this could you enlighten us more on this tool. Thank you and keep up the good work you do.
There is an add-on ya can buy for probe 3 that snaps on to allow it to latch ground or power. I also have a hook. They all great tools if ya know how to use them. I use mostly for good ground and power source along with test light
Great teaching video with warnings , a great follow up would be a video describing the basic module circuits for component drivers and sensing circuits , from my experience in the trade a lot do not have much or any knowledge in this regard , cheers.
The 5v adapter is super handy with a power probe tool. There are also copies for less money, but the reliability of the original is hard to beat. The only hassle is the long cord for someone who likes putting stuff away after each use. The best use of this tool is with connectors off or control modules to see if the circuit will handle a load, or if a motor, like a 2 wire window motor can be run thru the circuit.
Great insight on the use of this power probe tool. Scanners - I'm only a hobbyist - at what level scanner should I purchase. (kind of the same as the power probe - if you are above your required knowledge then there is going to be trouble).
Folks need to understand there are other power probes. This is the basic one. This is one of the most innovative automotive electronic tools. Anyone who hates on it is uneducated. There is a 5 volt reference adapter that i have and used and works great!
i really only bought the power probe for the exteneded leads to have solid power and ground where ever and i sometimes use the actual tool to role up a window or such like that. thats about it
Thanks for that video! Can you dig out your LoadPro, dust it off, and do a video on that as well? After many years of electrical diagnosis in the automotive industry, it became the most effective device to quickly determine which of the 3 faults that can occur in a wire--opens, shorts to ground- and high resistance. The ability to load test-voltage drop a circuit at the push of a button is invaluable, and it has become a permanent attachment to my meter(s). Nothing against a power probe, but as you said the possibility to misinterpret readings and potentially cause damage is very real. Just my two cents, thanks. Al H.
Sherwood, please tell me why no one ever talks about Dan Sullivan‘s multimeter load testing leads. It sounds like the perfect answer to these tests please please please advise.
Power probe can screw you checking for a good power wire, it will show you 12.3 volts, light up, and beep. But the power was not their!! Then I used a test light, no power!! It can read a very light load, that will not carry a load!!! It bit me checking a window regulator, just 2 wires, up/down. You definitely need a bulb test light, or make one using a car headlight
Many years ago, when I was so young but knew everything, I worked at a Shell gas station as a smog tech. Back then B.A.R. required techs to perform a functional check on EGR valves for the smog check. Well, I had an electronic EGR valve (I think) on a Subaru. Borrowed someone's power probe to induce power to one of the electrical solenoids. Smoked the pcm. Carried this experience from then on. Haven't smoked a pcm since. Bricked one, but not smoked any.
I’m on my 3rd power probe over my 40 years as a master tech, and I couldn’t agree more with you Sherwood. There should be a safety,either physically or an on screen prompt just like a scan tool when it asks are you sure you want to clear codes? Great video on a subject that is never brought up.
i dont use a power probe , it was ingrained in me when i worked for mercedes benz , to use only a dmm , if the shop forman saw you useing a test light or a power probe he would take it from you , and the premice was they will damage electronics in these cars , and when you went to electrical class they did not want you useing power probes or test lights , that was there training do it there way and that is the only way , and there classes were intense , same when i worked for nissan , and ford , so i use a meter , all the time , rarely will i use a test light , and usually only on boat trailers , or old cars , that i dont have to worry about damaging something ,, always use caution ,
You can put the black lead to battery positive and leave the red lead disconnected and now you will have power on the black small alligator all the time.
Power probe... hands down the best electrical tool for basic testing! 12 volt, trailer plugs, lights, fuses, grounds, etc. Way better than a test light. But... sensors or can bus circuits not so much. Every tool has its purpose. It's not the tools fault the operator doesn't know how to use it. Just because you drive a pickup truck doesn't mean you can drive a semi. Yall know what I mean! Love the videos sherwood! You guys are the real deal!!!
I understand the benefits of the Power Probe, but they dont outweigh the potential negatives in my opinion. Wont catch me using one with how easy it can be to make a mistake. Rather avoid the chance of anything happening 😂
I refuse to use one. I also refuse to use an LED test light. My incandescent test light tells me everything I need to know to diagnose the electrical problem. It just always tells the truth for me.
The second I saw the title text I knew it was all about the Pee Pee. Frankly, even though I think of electrical circuits as 2nd nature the whole idea of having full ride power and ground so easily accessible scares the 💩out of me. This is one of those tools where even the best will have a bad day. A good thing to have might be a sort of pre-activation button on the switch that will let you know using a much higher resistance path what the current will be if you send it. Granted it's going to take a bit of technology to get it right but far more amazing things have been done.
The fact that you need to insert your political opinions into an automotive enthusiast channel says more about you than the point you’re trying to make.
When I was in high school electronics shop class, I watched the instructor fry a $25,000 airplane component he was repairing with power applied to the wrong circuit. No sooner did he touch the power to the circuit than it was smoke followed by a lot of cursing. He used it as an object lesson for all of us, and it was something that stuck hard.
dang that is a bad day!!!
The Power Probe has a 5v adapter for applying a 5v signal voltage, as well as a current adapter. You have to read up on them, but when used correctly they can be a real asset. I have both and have used them in some of my diagnostics. 57 year tech/shop owner/instructor (Community College)/Trainer.
I grew up around an automotive electrician. He always just used ol trusty test light with the ice pick tip.
I think that is tried and trued
I love this video. It's the perfect dichotomy of this channel. You're giving sound advice with a stern expression and cadence and we see a dog in uniform walking around looking for work.
Tink is on flat rate and she’s been starving a bit lately 😅
I love the power probe,not for people who don't know how to use it. Its a very good trouble shooting tool.
Power probe has a 5volt adapter and a pulse modulated tip i wish that they would have a adjustable loaded restive tip you could use would be nice.
This man is speaking facts right here 👍🏻. Been using power probes for years and have never once lit up the smoke. I rarely actually ever hit the button into a circuit but when I do I am super “paranoid” about making damn sure I know every ounce of that circuit before I push the button and that’s the only way to do it
You should do a video on the relay bypass switches. It's really been helpful for me to have the common set that's sold to be able to #1 see if a particular relay isn't functioning and #2 to be able to easily command certain functions to operate instead of having to wait for the ECU to do it when it's supposed to happen. It would also allow you to explain relays a bit further as I have found that many people who aren't directly involved in the field really understand the how and why, and also how the circuit diagram works. I really think that this topic has been neglected from what I have seen.
The switch needs a big red guard over it. When you flip it up an “are you sure” message needs to play 😂
Fantastic advice, thank you for posting, i noticed a small dog with a jacket on the floor, Garge mascot? or a small guard dog? 🤔
Retired now but I used an incandescent a LED and Power Probe for electrical diagnosis and each one has a benefit, I loved the power probe when it first came out. But I never trusted the voltmeter in it as it is not accurate. Good video.
I would love more powerprobe lessions i understand it more then scoping i just bought a 2 channel scope and im gonna play around with it see if i can get familiar and train myself with it but i would love more tests with the probe!!!
Generally speaking, a scope is multimeter that keeps refreshing really fast. Every time it refreshes, that point is used to make a graph.
I'm just a casual car hobbyist and for years I haven't been able to get my head around auto electrics. This channel makes so many things make sense. Thank you so much!
A couple years ago a coworker was working on a Range Rover and probed the wrong pin and set off the airbags 😮$$$$$
Tink wearing a Royalty shirt seems to be saying "don't go burning up drivers". Love it..
This was a great video. However, I’ve seen technicians warn about this but no videos explain how to be 100% certain you aren’t going to fry something. Could you elaborate how to be certain with a wiring diagram or something to show us how not to fry a module or whatever else?
👍🏼
What about the tone and probe tools used to locate hidden shorts in wires. Can these tools also destroy computer modules if connected to a car circuit?
Nice video. I don't actually own a PP but do own two 20' PP leads, the cigarette adapter, and the adapter that hooks on to the batter to put power to the PP leads. I use them all to have a power and ground wherever I need on on the vehicle.
I do own the Innova version of a PP that they discontinued and have used it a couple of times but usually just use an incandescent test light and multimeter.
They ought to sell the tip/probe part with various resistive loads built in. You could have a tip that limits current to say 300 mA to avoid frying a module.
I only use a power probe in limited applications,I absolutely love it for wiring trailers…
Just subscribed about two weeks ago. love your videos. I do not do automotive work, but I own a Heavy Truck shop in Virginia. I understand the temptation to push the button. I had to smile. I have had that same temptation. Glad you also bring out information on the LED test light. I do not use them as they will throw you a curve ball. Nothing like old school test lights. I am old school. 69 years old and still put in 12 hours plus every day on heavy trucks. All that said I am using a load pro tester at times with a voltmeter. What are your thoughts on the load pro and maybe if you also use this could you enlighten us more on this tool. Thank you and keep up the good work you do.
Load Pro simple to use and it works.
Great video,didn't see any comments about the dog wearing the t-shirt 👍
First comment again and thumbs up yes! lol…. Great content on the PP. Hopefully it helps some people NOT smoke electronics for sure.
Twice In one day! Impressive!
One of my favorite tools. Having a known good power and ground makes accurate diagnosis easier.
Well, yeah! Great info and advice. Generally speaking, after you pop one module, you learn. Most people. Ok, some people. 😁✌️
Know your tools! Thanks Sherwood!
I thought I was getting a life lesson talk from my dad at the end there,go pretty serious lol,great video 👍
As Always….FANTASTIC VIDEO. Wonderful presentation and your knowledge is amazing. Thank you
Adjustable fuse/current setting on the Snap-on power probe is a nice feature to check out.
Not just modules, you can set off airbags if you get on the wrong pin
There is an add-on ya can buy for probe 3 that snaps on to allow it to latch ground or power. I also have a hook. They all great tools if ya know how to use them. I use mostly for good ground and power source along with test light
Love my pp3, use it religously with basic electrical issues i come across
The headline had me thinking impact 😂
Also, I now think of the dude who cut the leg of one side of the fuse and tucked it back in the fuse panel. Lol
Excellent video thanks for sharing.
Great video as always.Thank you for this one.
Tip Top Training Tutorial ! ⚡️
Have a good evening gentlemen ! And Tink too !! 🎯
Do you have a link to the load box that you use?
Great teaching video with warnings , a great follow up would be a video describing the basic module circuits for component drivers and sensing circuits , from my experience in the trade a lot do not have much or any knowledge in this regard , cheers.
thanks sir, for the knowledge you share God blessed you
FYI snap on power prob “circuit tester “ is almost like the hook …. You can control how many amperage and you can control the latch
Great Information!!
Thanks!
The 5v adapter is super handy with a power probe tool. There are also copies for less money, but the reliability of the original is hard to beat. The only hassle is the long cord for someone who likes putting stuff away after each use.
The best use of this tool is with connectors off or control modules to see if the circuit will handle a load, or if a motor, like a 2 wire window motor can be run thru the circuit.
great video thanks for taking the time to share good job
Thanks for watching!
Thanks Sherwood, this is a great peice man 💯
Great insight on the use of this power probe tool.
Scanners - I'm only a hobbyist - at what level scanner should I purchase. (kind of the same as the power probe - if you are above your required knowledge then there is going to be trouble).
Great advise, thanks!
Good video. Fair warning
Great information 👍
4:44 you can use the PP extension lead as well utilising the 4mm banana connector.
5:21 you can buy a latching switch.
Folks need to understand there are other power probes. This is the basic one. This is one of the most innovative automotive electronic tools. Anyone who hates on it is uneducated. There is a 5 volt reference adapter that i have and used and works great!
i really only bought the power probe for the exteneded leads to have solid power and ground where ever and i sometimes use the actual tool to role up a window or such like that. thats about it
Thanks for that video! Can you dig out your LoadPro, dust it off, and do a video on that as well? After many years of electrical diagnosis in the automotive industry, it became the most effective device to quickly determine which of the 3 faults that can occur in a wire--opens, shorts to ground- and high resistance. The ability to load test-voltage drop a circuit at the push of a button is invaluable, and it has become a permanent attachment to my meter(s). Nothing against a power probe, but as you said the possibility to misinterpret readings and potentially cause damage is very real. Just my two cents, thanks. Al H.
Loadpro can be handy at times as well. With wiring diagrams of course. Enjoy the vids.
Could you use it on every circuit that has a 10 amp fuse or more, providing you are not on the control side when bypassing a relay?
Sherwood, please tell me why no one ever talks about Dan Sullivan‘s multimeter load testing leads. It sounds like the perfect answer to these tests please please please advise.
Electrical is the hardest thing for most people. Most mechanics can't do electrical. Can't do electrical=Parts Changer. Change my mind.
Power probe can screw you checking for a good power wire, it will show you 12.3 volts, light up, and beep. But the power was not their!! Then I used a test light, no power!! It can read a very light load, that will not carry a load!!! It bit me checking a window regulator, just 2 wires, up/down. You definitely need a bulb test light, or make one using a car headlight
Many years ago, when I was so young but knew everything, I worked at a Shell gas station as a smog tech.
Back then B.A.R. required techs to perform a functional check on EGR valves for the smog check. Well, I had an electronic EGR valve (I think) on a Subaru. Borrowed someone's power probe to induce power to one of the electrical solenoids. Smoked the pcm.
Carried this experience from then on. Haven't smoked a pcm since. Bricked one, but not smoked any.
I hv a question, why don't more pple use the load pro, if they are so worried about a circuit holding a load,
Sherwood your thoughts on Dan Sullivans Load Pro please...
100% agreed
Good stuff
Cause 5v logic loves 12v pressure.
They make a 5 volt tip that limits voltage to 5
BRING BACK THE WET BMW, ( Need to see where the water is coming from. )
This is exactly why I didn’t buy one. I was concerned that I would make that exact error.
I’m on my 3rd power probe over my 40 years as a master tech, and I couldn’t agree more with you Sherwood. There should be a safety,either physically or an on screen prompt just like a scan tool when it asks are you sure you want to clear codes? Great video on a subject that is never brought up.
I demonstrate led test lamps to the kids by grabbing the batt pos with one hand and grabbing the led test light probe with the other.....
i dont use a power probe , it was ingrained in me when i worked for mercedes benz , to use only a dmm , if the shop forman saw you useing a test light or a power probe he would take it from you , and the premice was they will damage electronics in these cars , and when you went to electrical class they did not want you useing power probes or test lights , that was there training do it there way and that is the only way , and there classes were intense , same when i worked for nissan , and ford , so i use a meter , all the time , rarely will i use a test light , and usually only on boat trailers , or old cars , that i dont have to worry about damaging something ,, always use caution ,
I love the power probe. I make tons of money going in after people tear stuff up with the power probe
😬
All the new "techs" that start here have one. Makes me a ton of money too, when they create more problems or mis-diagnose.
Same 😂
What brand is this one?
You should do members diag training
Lets go new video!
We are really trying to pump out the content!
@@theroyaltyautoservice
👍🏼
You can put the black lead to battery positive and leave the red lead disconnected and now you will have power on the black small alligator all the time.
I put a banana plug on my test light to use the power probe leads to always go on the battery. My test light draws 800ma
Power probe... hands down the best electrical tool for basic testing! 12 volt, trailer plugs, lights, fuses, grounds, etc. Way better than a test light. But... sensors or can bus circuits not so much. Every tool has its purpose. It's not the tools fault the operator doesn't know how to use it. Just because you drive a pickup truck doesn't mean you can drive a semi. Yall know what I mean! Love the videos sherwood! You guys are the real deal!!!
Why is the hole in the hood?
This was a really good video. To think, professional techs actually destroy components with a PowerProbe. Think about what a moron could do with it? 😂
I understand the benefits of the Power Probe, but they dont outweigh the potential negatives in my opinion. Wont catch me using one with how easy it can be to make a mistake. Rather avoid the chance of anything happening 😂
What is the hole in the hood? Did I miss something?
Goes over the headlight when the hood is shut. Thats how mini coopers are
I'm not a fan of the power probe id rather use a test light and a multi meter
Nahh, the most destructive tool in my shop is our service writer.
how many techs in your shop?
We have two shops and ten techs total.
I refuse to use one. I also refuse to use an LED test light. My incandescent test light tells me everything I need to know to diagnose the electrical problem. It just always tells the truth for me.
Your test light replaces a DVOM, scanner and a scope?
@@052RC Does the power probe replace a dvom, scanner, and scope?
4:20 Watched a mobile TH-cam dude who hooks the extra ground wire to the block when he tests starters.
I need to know why there is a circular hole in the hood
Goes over the headlight
@@AaronMDO what kinda car
@@travissheehan6082 mini Cooper
@@AaronMDO thanks
Be very carefull with ground side computer controlled stuff, you can very easily blow expensive modules,$$$$$
I hammer used improperly can be very destructive , about time some nuance to the pp use. I love using it in certain situations.
except the misuse of the hammer is very intuitive. The misuse of the PP is less intuitive.
@@SteelheadTed depends who's using it , why its important to be educated about the tool you're using first.
The second I saw the title text I knew it was all about the Pee Pee. Frankly, even though I think of electrical circuits as 2nd nature the whole idea of having full ride power and ground so easily accessible scares the 💩out of me. This is one of those tools where even the best will have a bad day.
A good thing to have might be a sort of pre-activation button on the switch that will let you know using a much higher resistance path what the current will be if you send it. Granted it's going to take a bit of technology to get it right but far more amazing things have been done.
OMG OMG OMG
When I saw "destructive tool" in the headline I was worried you were doing a video on Kamala Harris!
You have all the tastes of an alley cat.
The fact that you need to insert your political opinions into an automotive enthusiast channel says more about you than the point you’re trying to make.
You should have said trigger warning first. Lol
@@nyc8452great understanding of the clown. Great comment too.
@@nyc8452 Okay, Mary.
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Actually if the voltage present but not much current - it’ll light up the light, but not beep. Or beep intermittently and scratchy.
push the button, frank!