engine diagnostics

where to i hookup a scanner to run a diagnostic check? can anybody help me with that? not sure if i have the right scanner but i have a scanner for ODB1 cars.

It is under the hood on the passenger side at the firewall.

Thanks man. one more question may sound dumb but what does it look like does it say anything on it? and does the car have to be running or just turn the key forward?

It may not say anything on it but it's long with about 6 terminals inside and a seperate single connector next to it. There are 2 tests. KOEO (key on engine off) that tests sensors and actuator motors and then KOER (key on engine running). It will probably ask you to hit the brake pedal, turn the wheel 180 and cycle the OD switch. Then it runs a series of tests including idle control. At the conclusion it should give you codes if any.
Looks like this.
http://www.extreme-check-engine-light-codes.com/Ford OBD1 Decoder.htm

thanks greatly appreciate it.

It's black plastic, about 3/4" wide and less than 2" long. You can normally use a pick in the hole on the top and then pull the connector out from underneath; it may also have an additional separate side pin.

also be sure to warm car up first before either KOEO or KOER.