So I've been getting some conflicting information in regard to wether or not the trouble codes can be pulled on OBD1.5 by using the pinout method and counting the flashes or if you must use a scanner.

Here'* the setup, I definitely have a OBD2 Port but I'm unable to use my Bluetooth scanner. I hadn't been able to find the protocol sticker under the hood but what I can tell you is the wire terminal to the computer is much more square with less wires than any PCM I have ever seen, so I'm pretty sure it'* the dreaded 1.5

I haven't found a local parts house with a scanner that'll pull the codes. Has anyone successfully pulled the codes without using a scanner? If so, which pins do you short? If not then I guess I keep hunting. I can count so I hate to spend the cash if there'* no need to.
Thanks

You have the 1.5 system. The paperclip method will not work. The only "cheapest" diag scanner that will work is the Actron CP9690. It works on OBD 1 and OBD 2 GM systems. About $200.

Ouch! Thanks for the heads-up. I didn't wanna go sticking paper clips up the rear of my ECM without knowing 100% what the result would be. Last thing I need is to have to buy a new computer.

Thanks
James

In the end, that scanner is the "BETTER" version of your 'run of the mill' pocket scanners. Live data capability is a must have these days for diagnostics.

May not need it, we'll see tomorrow. I found a serious vacuum leak on the throttle body. One of the rubber Ts was split on the backside where I couldn't see it. Found it almost immediately with the WD40. No that the idle is smooth I reset the computer. I hadn't started it yet but I've got an hour drive tomorrow so I'll see if it comes back.

Just confirming what Mike said. ALL 94-95 3800'* had OBD 1.5, and require a scanner.

I use an actron cp 9145 that works great that I found for cheap used.

I had never heard of 1.5 till I started trying to figure out why my Vgate Bluetooth Scanner & TorquePro App weren't playing well with others. I had never run into any problems in my 5 years of using it And then having your typical OBD2 Port really through me off. It'* odd that some of the GM 1.5 vehicles equipped with the 2 port are able to pull the codes using the flash method while others apparently can't. From what I've read, the Blazer is one example as well as the Corvettes.

I'll keep a lookout for a deal on a compatible scanner, maybe I'll get lucky and is any happens to come across one I'd love to hear about it.

Thanks for the info. This site is an amazing resource. Seems like the members have an exceptionally wide range of detailed automotive knowledge.

I hear ya. OBD 1.5 was a very dark time. My mom has a 95 Blazer that has an old school OBD 1 computer, spits out OBD1 codes, but has an OBD 2 connection (haven't tried flashing codes out of it). 94-95 C/H bodies spit out OBD2 codes over an OBD 2 connection using OBD 1 protocols. My 94 Regal with the 3.8 throws the same OBD 2 codes, but has an OBD 1 port, and cannot flash codes out even having the OBD 1 port.

Yeah, there was stuff flying everywhere...

1995 was the transition period for OBD 1.0 to 2.0. GM'* 1.5 system was the 'beta' version before rolling out 2.0. The PCM had 2.0 level codes, but 1.0 software. All 1996 M/Y had to be 2.0 per Federal regulations.

Wait until OBD3 comes out.

Ugh, should I just shove a probe up my rear now and get it over with?