I'm looking to get into my first Snap-On scan tool and trying to decide which of the below makes the most sense. The intelligent diagnostics of the Apollo D9 and Triton D8 seem really good. Not sure if the Solus or Versus has anything like that. Any thoughts on what you guys would recommend out of the below units?
I'm just getting into the diagnostic side of things and I have been told that at some point I'm going to need a scope. If I had to answer your questions as if its "need" right now I would say no. The guided component feature seems really helpful especially to me as I learn and start to build knowledege/experiance. Another thing I have been told is that Snap-on likes to kill models after a few years by not providing updates, not sure how tru that is or not. Always seems to be like a religous type of thing with some techs.
Yes, snap on does let expire product lines that could otherwise be maintained working properly and updated imo.
There are many things that come into play when choosing between the mentioned tools, be it money, knowledge, skill level....
You may have a look at the SO website where you can find accurate descriptions on each of their platforms and figure out the differences and pros/contras, relating these Infos to your specific situation.
An expert is someone who knows each time more on each time less, until he finally knows absolutely everything about absolutely nothing.
I have owned Solus platform and Verus platform tools.
Scope aside, the biggest difference is the in the number of pids you can display at once. The Verus gives you more. Also, the Verus is a Windows computer if that helps you out at all. The software version should be considered into the purchase price
The Versus seems really powerful my only concern is that its been around for sometime and not sure when Snap-On is going to cut support even though it semms like the hardware can still be capable of supporting updates. Does Snap-On release any info when they will discontinue updates / support for a platform?
The Verus Pro has, already, reached its End-of-Life as far as Snap-on support and updates go. However, that does not mean the tool has lost any functionality, (with the exception of the capability being updated and the on-line subscription features like Suretrack).
Code reading/printing/clearing, Data. pid viewing, Bi-directional control, system resets and initializations, Guided Component Tests... all will, still, function as they always have...up to the year of the installed update.
In my opinion, the Verus Pro is, still, a very solid choice for vehicles up until the Updated version. If you need to diagnose newer vehicles, it might not be your best choice.
"Knowledge is a weapon. Arm yourself, well, before going to do battle."
"Understanding a question is half an answer." I have learned more by being wrong, than I have by being right.
Any of the tools you listed would be a fine choice, IMO. I keep a Triton D8 on my roll cart for general purpose diagnostics.
Don't buy into the Intelligent Diagnostics. It's not that intelligent, and stands a good chance of leading you down the wrong diagnostic path. Guided Component Test is worth every penny.
I would strongly suggest getting one with a scope, if possible. You don't 'need' a scope - many professionals have gone their entire careers making great money without a scope. :silly: But being proficient with a scope opens up a TON of testing options. And not just with engine performance, either. HVAC, body functions, ABS, transmissions, all kinds of stuff.
Any of the tools you listed would be a fine choice
I would strongly suggest getting one with a scope, if possible. You don't 'need' a scope - many professionals have gone their entire careers making great money without a scope. :silly: But being proficient with a scope opens up a TON of testing options. And not just with engine performance, either. HVAC, body functions, ABS, transmissions, all kinds of stuff.
+1
An expert is someone who knows each time more on each time less, until he finally knows absolutely everything about absolutely nothing.
I was able to get a deal on the Triton D8 and went that route. With it being a newer platform with support and have a 2 channel scope made sense for. The should allow me to get familiar with scope testing and will chasing that rabbit.
Thanks for all the help guys. This is great community for someone new like myself.
Great, I'm sure you won't be disappointed!
If you're an S.D. Premium member, be sure to watch the Verus training series. Most of it will apply directly to the Triton, and it's hands down the best Snap On training you can get online.
And if you're not a Premium member, sign up for the two week free trial, binge the training series and cancel if you don't think it's something you want to continue spending money on.
www.scannerdanner.com/scannerdanner-prem...an-tool-classes.html
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