On the Shaners Mechanic Life YouTube channel, the host has encountered several complex electrical issues that take a lot of time to diagnose. In an industry where time equals money, they decided to invest in a tool that would help speed up the diagnostic process, allowing them to move on to the next job more quickly. The tool in question is the Power Probe PP KIT-03S Master Combo Kit, which they purchased from Amazon.
The kit comes in a blow-molded case and includes the Power Probe 3, a device that operates on 12 to 24 volts, along with various adapters, cables, probes, and back probes. However, the most crucial component for the host was the Power Probe ECT 3000, a tool designed to detect short circuits and open circuits, which has been a recurring issue in their work.
For those who deal with a lot of lighting issues, the kit’s adapters could be particularly useful. The Power Probe ECT 3000 can be purchased separately or as part of the kit, which also includes the Power Probe 3 and additional attachments. The host noted that for a little extra money, it made sense to buy the full kit.
The ECT 3000 works by using a transmitter, which is connected to the battery, and a receiver to detect pulses that help locate open or short circuits. The host demonstrated the tool’s effectiveness on an old CAT forklift that wouldn’t start, identifying a dead short in the wiring. By following the signal detected by the receiver, they quickly found the short, which was caused by wires that had been worn down by a clamp on the harness.
After repairing the wires, the forklift started right up, proving the value of the Power Probe ECT 3000. The host expressed their satisfaction with the tool, which had already paid for itself within two jobs in the same week.
In another instance, the ECT 3000 was used to diagnose a lighting issue on a truck. The host traced the problem to a corroded connection in the relay block, saving significant time that would have otherwise been spent searching for the short and open circuits. They emphasized that in a flat-rate work environment, finding and fixing problems quickly translates directly into higher earnings.
The only downside noted was that in situations involving very thick wiring harnesses, the tool had difficulty picking up the signal, particularly when many wires or metal components surrounded the target area. However, the host acknowledged that this limitation is mentioned in the instructions and didn’t diminish their overall satisfaction with the tool. Despite this minor challenge, the Power Probe ECT 3000 proved to be an invaluable addition to their toolbox.
![Power Probe III w/Case & Acc - Red (PP319FTCRED) [Car Automotive Diagnostic Test Tool, Digital Volt Meter, AC/DC Current Resistance, Circuit Tester]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51m6wAZTOYL._SL500_.jpg)
At Power Probe, they believe things should be simple. That’s why they design tools to make complex automotive technology accessible for the modern auto technician. As automotive technology continues to evolve, Power Probe will provide innovative Technology, Energy, and Knowledge solutions for technicians and consumers alike.
The PP3 Master Combo Kit combines the functionality of the Power Probe 3 that allows you to power up components, test DC Voltage, Electrical Motors, Lights, Relays, and monitor Signals. While the PPECT3000 will help you trace Short and Open Circuits quickly and accurately.
FEATURES
- Power up components
- Audible monitoring of electrical signals Voltmeter
- 12 – 24 V range
- Bad ground indicator
- Continuity tester
- Relay and component tester
- Trace short and open circuits Cigarette Lighter Adapter
POWER PROBE 3
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| While the PP3 is in Power Probe Mode. Contact the probe tip to a NEGATIVE circuit. The green negative sign “-” LED will light. If the audio feature is turned on, a low pitched tone will sound. | While the PP3 is in Power Probe Mode. Contact the probe tip to a NEGATIVE circuit. The green negative sign “-” LED will light. If the audio feature is turned on, a low-pitched tone will sound. | While the PP3 is in Power Probe Mode, contact the probe tip to a POSITIVE circuit. The red positive sign “+” LED will light and the voltage reading of the circuit will be indicated on the LCD display. If the audio feature is turned on, a high-pitched tone will sound. |
ECT3000
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Cable harness tests: Working on a classic car restoration this is a great way to test the vehicle’s wiring before finalizing the rebuild.Determine a clear result of where the fault or electrical problem is located. | Cable harness tests: Working on a classic car restoration this is a great way to test the vehicle’s wiring before finalizing the rebuild. Determine a clear result of where the fault or electrical problem is located. | Helps track and locate broken cables: Thanks to its audible indicator and its LED light, the fault can be quickly located. |
