I bought a pack of 1,000 count code readers for 99 cents!
I do however have a 20 dollar one that beeps if your blind....
for the 1996 f150s I would recommend getting a code scanner that at least erases codes. I have one but all my cars are odb-1 or lower

 

ill never buy another OBDI if i can help it, my f150 told me exactly what was wrong right when something went wrong, unlike my 250.

 

Lol I can scan and clear my codes on the fly while driving with my scan gauge on my steering column

 

I can ignore my check engine light for months.

 

What's wrong with the OBD1? I've never had issue pulling a code using the jumper and check engine light with either of my OBD1 trucks, or are you (F150CAM) talking about using the code reader? I had fun doing the training session at Autozone when they told me they could not check codes on an OBD1 truck. I went to Autozone to double check what the CEL told me and wound up teaching the manager how to check the codes in the parking lot. He was blown away. I then tried Oreilly Auto across the street. Same thing. They can't check OBD1. Wound up teaching that manager how to use the CEL as well. I should have charged for my services! Lol

 

They don't check OBDI because the procedure is different for every manufacturer and there is no specified placement requirement for the diagnostic port so it can be anywhere.

 

i bought the scanner a week after i got the 250, just my truck dont throw codes unless its already on fire or something lol.

 

the only parts store i know that checks odb1 is the advanced auto down the way, the one where i go almost every week and almost everyone there owns an old car or truck that runs odb1 systems they know there stuff.