Maintaining your car’s computer settings during a battery replacement is crucial to avoid resetting important systems like radio presets, alarm systems, and engine control module (ECM) configurations. For DIY car enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike, a reliable memory saver is an invaluable tool. While there are commercial options available, creating your own custom solution can be both cost-effective and tailored to your specific needs. This article explores how to build a DIY OBD2 memory saver using the NOCO GB40 Boost Plus jump starter, offering a practical approach to preserving your vehicle’s memory.
The NOCO GB40 Boost Plus is renowned for its compact size and powerful jump-starting capabilities. However, its versatility extends beyond jump-starting. With a few readily available components and basic DIY skills, you can transform the GB40 into a robust OBD2 memory saver. The original author of the source article recognized the potential of the NOCO GB40 and ingeniously crafted a custom OBD2 connector to work seamlessly with this jump starter. The standard Noco Obd2 Memory Saver is often designed for different, more expensive NOCO models, making this DIY approach particularly appealing for GB40 owners.
To bridge the connection, the DIY solution utilizes an OBD-II connector paired with banana plugs, a common connector type in electronics and RC hobbies. These banana plugs are designed to interface with the NOCO GB40’s existing connector, creating a secure and efficient power pathway. This clever adaptation allows the GB40 to supply consistent power through the OBD-II port, effectively maintaining the vehicle’s computer memory while the battery is disconnected.
The process involves soldering banana plugs to a NOCO replacement cable equipped with eyelets. Bending the eyelets at a 90-degree angle optimizes the banana connector’s orientation, ensuring a straight and clean connection. Electrical tape provides insulation and strain relief, completing the robust DIY memory saver cable.
The beauty of this DIY approach lies in its simplicity and portability. The NOCO GB40 itself is a compact and powerful unit, and the custom OBD2 memory saver cable adds minimal bulk. This results in a highly portable memory saving solution that can be easily stored and used whenever a battery replacement is needed. The ample power capacity of the NOCO GB40 ensures that it can maintain memory for extended periods, providing sufficient time for battery swaps, terminal cleaning, and other maintenance tasks without the worry of data loss.
While commercially available OBD2 memory savers exist, this DIY project offers a compelling alternative, especially for those who already own a NOCO GB40 or are looking for a multi-functional tool. It transforms a jump starter into a valuable memory saving device, adding to the versatility and utility of the NOCO GB40. For those comfortable with basic soldering and automotive DIY, this project provides a rewarding and practical solution for preserving car memory during battery changes.
In conclusion, building a DIY NOCO OBD2 memory saver using a GB40 jump starter is a feasible and effective project for car enthusiasts. It leverages the power of the GB40, combined with readily accessible components, to create a custom memory saving solution. This project not only saves money compared to dedicated memory savers but also expands the functionality of the NOCO GB40, making it an even more valuable tool for automotive maintenance.
