All Dodge, I watched the video online for the paper clip, and 1 guy made a flash out of an LED pig-tailed bulb, all he did is count the flashed to read the code

I was hoping I could do the same,

do you know if the diagnostics from a software based scanning application would provide more detailed info that i genuinely need to make the repairs ?

Does the software program provide more info or suggest solutions

I think it would be great if I could count get the code with that simple set-up and focus on what the code is and how to resolve it without spending multiple hundreds of dollars if not into the 1,000's

I need the scan tool for my personal use, i do not need a software subscription with multiple boat models, etc....

You don't need the SW for codes, just an LED. Can get one at any radio shack or on line
https://www.alliedelec.com/lumex-ssl...hoCX88QAvD_BwE

https://www.alliedelec.com/vcc-visua...xoCcGUQAvD_BwE

The SW provides no suggestions of how to fix, only what the motor is doing. Timing, temp, volts, other things. Like if you where looking at the dash board on your car sort of. With the SW or the scanner, you can use it for other boats you might get in the future, and I have found it to be helpful when troubleshooting, but not always

Try replacing the Ignition Control Module under the distributer cap. It worked for me.