C-18 Truck Engines Caterpillar


Diagnostic Flash Code Retrieval

Usage:

C-18 MDP

"Diagnostic" Lamp

Use the "DIAGNOSTIC" Lamp or a Caterpillar electronic service tool to determine the diagnostic flash code.

Use the following procedure to retrieve the diagnostic codes if the engine is equipped with a "DIAGNOSTIC" lamp:

  1. Turn the cruise control ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.

  2. Move the SET/RESUME switch to either position. Hold that position until the "YELLOW" lamp begins to flash.

The "YELLOW" lamp will flash in order to indicate a two digit flash code and the SET/RESUME switch may be released. The sequence of flashes represents the system diagnostic message. Count the first sequence of flashes in order to determine the first digit of the diagnostic code. After a two second pause, the second sequence of flashes will identify the second digit of the diagnostic code.

Any additional diagnostic codes will follow after a pause. The additional diagnostic codes will be displayed in the same manner. Flash Code 55 signals that No Detected Faults have occurred since the ignition key switch has been turned to the ON position.

Refer to the Service Manual or consult an authorized Caterpillar dealer for the following items.

  • Further information

  • Assistance for repairs

  • Troubleshooting

The electronic diagnostic codes are listed and described in Table 1.

Note: Table 1 indicates the potential effect on engine performance with "ACTIVE" flash codes.

Some codes record events or some codes indicate that a mechanical system needs attention rather than indicating a performance problem. Troubleshooting is not required for codes "35", "41", "47" and "55". Code "01" will not flash. Some codes will limit the operation or the performance of the engine.

Table 1 indicates the potential effect on the engine performance with active flash codes. Table 1 also forms a list of Electronic diagnostic codes and descriptions.

Table 1
  Diagnostic Flash Codes 
Diagnostic Flash Code  Effect On Engine Performance(1)  Suggested Action of the Operator 
Engine Misfire Low Power  Reduced Engine Speed  Engine Shutdown  Shut Down the Engine(2)  Service(3)  Schedule Service ASAP(4) 
01  Idle Shutdown Override               
12  Coolant Level Sensor Fault(5)             
13  Fuel Temperature Sensor Fault             
14  Retarder Solenoid Fault             
21  Sensor Supply Voltage Fault(5)(6)           
24  Oil Pressure Sensor Fault(5)             
25  Boost Pressure Sensor Fault(6)           
26  Atmospheric Pressure Sensor Fault(6)             
27  Coolant Temperature Sensor Fault(5)(6)             
28  Check Throttle Sensor Adjustment             
29  PTO Throttle Position Sensor Fault           
31  Loss of Vehicle Speed Signal           
32  Throttle Position Sensor Fault           
34  Engine RPM Signal Fault       
35  Engine Overspeed Warning             
36  Vehicle Speed Signal Fault           
38  Inlet Air Temperature Sensor Fault(5)(6)             
41  Vehicle Overspeed Warning             
42  Check Sensor Calibrations           
46  Low Oil Pressure Warning      
47  Idle or PTO Shutdown Occurrence             
51  Intermittent Battery Power to ECM       
55  No Detected Faults               
56  Check Customer or System Parameters         
58  Powertrain Data Link Fault             
59  Incorrect Engine Software             
61  High Coolant Temperature Warning         
62  Low Coolant Level Warning         
64  High Inlet Air Temperature             
65  High Fuel Temperature Warning           
66  Multifunction No. 6 Output Fault             
67  Multifunction No. 7 Output Fault             
68  Transmission Not Responding             
71  Ignition Key Switch Fault           
72  Cylinder 1 or Cylinder 2 Fault         
73  Cylinder 3 or Cylinder 4 Fault         
74  Cylinder 5 or Cylinder 6 Fault         
(1) An "X" indicates that the effect on engine performance may occur, if the code is active. This depends on the exact failure.
(2) Shut Down the Engine: Operate the engine cautiously. Get immediate service. Severe engine damage may result.
(3) Service: The operator should go to the nearest qualified service facility.
(4) Schedule Service: When it is convenient for the operator, the problem should be investigated.
(5) When the diagnostic flash code is active, the effectiveness of the Engine Monitoring feature is reduced.
(6) The system may be affected by these Diagnostic Flash Codes, only under specific environmental conditions. This includes engine start-up at cold temperature, cold weather operation at high altitudes, etc.

For further information or assistance for repair, consult an authorized Caterpillar dealer.

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