Based on recommendations on here I bought an Autel OBD 2 reader ( cannot remember which model ). It will not function with my 1999 MY Ford Puma Engine/ECU/wiring harness, not even powering up. The harness is cut down to remove redundant functions but the OBD plug is present as are all connections back to the ECU. The OBD reader functions on another OBD 2 compliant vehicle.
I don't know when OBD 2 was introduced in Europe, it could be I need a prior level OBD 1 reader or something Ford specific. Can anyone advise? It could be of course that I have cut off something vital in which case I am well and truly up the proverbial creek! I hope not. HELP!

The scan tool should work with a 1999 Puma. EOBD was required from 1996 for petrol cars.

Check you have power on pin 16 and ground on pins 4 and 5

Thanks DW 100, I had forgotten about EOBD. OBD 2 was a US standard that was later adopted in Europe I think. I need to check pins as suggested but maybe I need an EOBD reader if there is such a thing.

I use an ELM 327 off ebay and my mobile phone it works on my 1997 Puma wiring harness just fine. I suspect it has a missing wire that you need. Check the wiring diagram and trace them out.

Nope petrol fords from 1997 should be easy to read on the chepest of obd2 readers. Check the power and earths to the port and I would check the reader on another car.

Got to agree with DW100. Sounds like you have a live feed missing (blown fuse?) or missing earth.

Working OBDII compliance on Fords prior to EOBD in 2003 is very hit and miss

[Edited on 6/11/16 by britishtrident]