What more can I try before thinking its the VCM OR PCM OR whatever its called?

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Is this scanner expensive? I'm having the same problem with my 97chevy express 1500 and my tranny is shifting odly and throwing the p1870 code as well. Also getting any voltage reading at the crank spot (8) on my internal fuse box. Think this is related? Maybe ignition switch? Also my gas gauge works when full to a half tank then from a half tank to empty the needle States at a half tank. Any suggestions? Another thing I noticed is that when I put my turn signals on the voltage meter on my instrument cluster flickers with the blinker.