In Focus: Cal-Van Tools AmpHound 2

May 4, 2016
This tool is designed to be easy to use when looking for parasitic drain on a vehicles electrical system, and for checking amp draw on a particular circuit.

The Cal-Van Tools Amp Hound 2, an amp meter for fused circuits, offers real-time readings of current and amps in a fused circuit without removing the fuse. By touching the probes to the top of a fuse, users get a reading. It works on Mini-LP and Micro-Fuse fuse types, as well as with mini, standard and maxi fuse types. A tone alerts users when the tool is touching the fuse, making under-the-dash work simpler. When troubleshooting components, the user can go to the fuse box to check current/amperage instead of the component itself. The fuse adapters lock onto the fuse for hands-free control. According to the company, this tool can reduce parasitic draw diagnosis by as much as 90 percent.

Application

The AmpHound 2 can be used on all 12V electrical circuits in any make and model of vehicle. It is quick and easy to use when looking for parasitic drain on a vehicles electrical system, and for checking amp draw on a particular circuit.

Selling points

The Amp Hound 2 drastically reduces the amount of time taken for identifying and diagnosing parasitic drain in a vehicles electrical system. Fuses do not need to be removed from the fuse block to check amperage on a circuit. Therefore, the circuit will not reset causing the symptoms to disappear only to come back later.

Features and benefits

  • Check for amperage on a circuit and read amp draw on circuits without removing the fuse from the fuse block.
  • A tone alerts users when the tool is touching the fuse.
  • The fuse adapters lock onto the fuse for hands-free control.
  • The AmpHound 2 will not reset modules or wake them up if the vehicle is turned off. Just place the test leads on the back of the fuse and the Amp Hound 2 will beep.
  • If checking for parasitic drain or when checking amp draw on a circuit, just select what type and rating of fuse, and the AmpHound 2 provides an accurate amperage reading.
  • The Amphound 2 works on Mini-LP and Micro-Fuse fuse types, as well as with mini, standard and maxi fuse types.

Origin

There are ways to read current/amperage in automotive systems, but they can be time-consuming and difficult for those not trained in electrical theory. The Amp Hound 2 was a solution that made it quick and easy to use.

Manufacturing specs

The product is manufactured overseas to the company's specifications.

Demonstration

The unit can be demonstrated very easily in any shop environment. A mobile tool distributor can walk into a shop and use a vehicle in the shop to demo. Parasitic draw is a common issue that needs to be diagnosed. The distributor can mimic this by accessing the engine compartment fuse box. Use the fuse diagram on the back of the fuse box cover to find something easy to turn on that would represent a parasitic draw. Now ask the technician how he or she would find the draw if unaware of its location. Show that person how quickly you can check the entire fuse box for a draw.

For more information

Cal-Van & Horizon Tool Inc.

800-537-1077

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