Mailbag Episode: Multimeters, Electrical Diagnostics and Drivability Tricks [E180]

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:

• Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs).
• Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits).
• The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis).
• Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster).
• Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.

Timestamps:

(00:00) – Intro 

(02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:

• Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing).
• Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions).
• Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).

(11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:

1. Start with a wiring schematic.
2. Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands.
3. Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks).
4. Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).

(22:48) – Shoutout to trainer Richard Velko.

(23:17) – "Flat Rate Test Drive" explained:

• Monitor PIDs (load, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors) during WOT pulls to isolate drivability issues (fuel vs. restriction).

(34:42) – Gaming corner: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster.

(38:53) – Scan tool recommendations for drivability:

• HP Tuners (budget-friendly, fast data logging).
• Used Snap-on Solus Edge/Ultra (enhanced OEM data).
• Shop responsibility (tools should be shop-provided!).

Quotes

• "I don’t buy just a pure multimeter anymore... Get an insulation tester. You’ll need it for EVs/hybrids." – Matt
• "The ‘Flat Rate Test Drive’ stresses the engine while watching PIDs to split the problem in half." – Matt
• "For drivability, HP Tuners is my top pick—great data logging without breaking the bank." – Matt

Tools & Resources Mentioned:

• Multimeters: Fluke 1587, Pico TA467, Vantage Pro, Curien.
• Diagnostic Tactics: Wiring diagrams, scan tool bi-directionals, current ramping.
• Games: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Days Gone Remaster.
• Scan Tools: HP Tuners, Snap-on Solus Edge, TopDon XTool.

Final Thoughts:

Matt’s takeaway? Invest in versatile tools (like megohmmeters) and lean on schematics/scan tools to avoid diagnostic rabbit holes.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.

Contact Information

• Email Matt: [e-mail]
• Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel...