So after reading all weekend on here about scanners and such, you all got me really wanting one now. I just don't have all the info to make an educated guess.

I like the looks of the Autoenginuity program and I have two laptops I can play with. What all do I need to buy to be able to work on my 97 (obd2)? This would also help in the near future with timing my new pump once this one finally croaks. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

http://tunertools.com/proddetail.asp?prod=OBD2%2Daldlobd2u

one of these first,,, then some software, and you'll be in bizzness

That site says it wont work on 96 and later OBDII cars.

AutoEnginuity comes with the OBD2 connector. So when you buy it, you buy the all thing.
Keep in mind that usually, they sell the basic software. You have to buy each enhanced module you need then.

So for 250 for the scantool and 150-250 for the gm enhancement, I can be up and running?

On the expansions, what is the difference between the "without CAN D" and "with CAN D"?

Sorry, don't know about with or without CAN D.
Whay I can tell is that I have the AE + enhanced GM module, and it does wonder. You can even initiate TDC relearns, time your IP, test your injectors, and so, and so---

Thanks for the info. I think I will email them and see what the with or without means.

I believe CAN protocol started around 2004 with some makes/models and is required by law starting with the 2008 model year (IIRC).

yep, snoman, you hit her on the nose. I think I will go without the CAN D and save the extra 100 bucks. I doubt I will have a 2008 or newer anytime soon, let alone one that I want to screw with. Even without it, you can still check codes on the newer models.