320 GC, 320, 323, 330 GC and 330 Excavator Machine Systems Troubleshooting Caterpillar


Sensor (Data Link Type) - Test

Usage:

320 GC BR4

Machine ECM 1

The following is a list of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that are associated with the sensors on the CAN data link of the machine.

Table 1
Machine ECM 1(MID 299) 
DTC  Code Description  System Response 
1952-9  Chassis Angle Sensor: Abnormal Update Rate  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
1952-12  Chassis Angle Sensor: Failure  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
2402-9  Laser Receiver: Abnormal Update Rate  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
2402-13  Laser Receiver: Out of Calibration  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
2425-12  Boom Angle Sensor: Bad Device or Component  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
2426-12  Stick Angle Sensor: Bad Device or Component  Machine components that directly communicate on this link will be unavailable. See machine schematic. 
3685-2  Tilt Bucket Angle Sensor : Data Erratic, Intermittent, or Incorrect  Grade Control Automated functions are disabled; Indicates no data from the sensor is received by the Implement ECM. Check for other "Abnormal Update Rate" codes from sensors sharing the same CAN bus 
3685-9  Tilt Bucket Angle Sensor: Abnormal Update Rate  Grade Control Automated functions are disabled; Indicates no data from the sensor is received by the Implement ECM. Check for other "Abnormal Update Rate" codes from sensors sharing the same CAN bus. 
4326-2  Swing Angle Sensor: Data Erratic, Intermittent or Incorrect  The swing angle does not align with the desired values from the sensors. 
4326-12  Swing Angle Sensor: Failure  The calculated swing angle from the Body IMU is inaccurate. 
4576-2  Bucket Angle Sensor: Erratic, Intermittent, or Incorrect  Grade Control Automated functions are disabled; Indicates no data from the sensor is received by the Implement ECM. Check for other "Abnormal Update Rate" codes from sensors sharing the same CAN bus 
4576-9  Bucket Angle Sensor: Abnormal Update Rate  Grade Control Automated functions are disabled; Indicates no data from the sensor is received by the Implement ECM. Check for other "Abnormal Update Rate" codes from sensors sharing the same CAN bus 

Each CAN data link circuit is an input and output of select electronic control modules. The data link is designed to carry communications between the electronic control modules.

Possible causes for an FMI 2 diagnostic code are:

  • The machine harness has intermittent issues (loose connector, intermittent open, or short).

  • Sensor failure

  • All of the part numbers are not correct.

Possible causes for an FMI 9 diagnostic code are:

  • The wrong software is installed on an ECM.

  • An improper key was used with the MSS system.

  • The ECM is operating intermittently.

  • Terminating resistors on the J1939 data link have failed or are missing.

  • An open or a poor connection in the data link circuit.

  • Short in the data link circuit.

  • An ECM or smart device is not powering up or powering down properly.

  • Lack of key switch input to an ECM or smart device (where applicable).

  • The energize circuit for the MSS Key Reader may have failed.

  • Excessive noise on the data link circuit.

  • One of the ECMs or smart devices has failed. This condition is unlikely.

Possible causes for an FMI 12 diagnostic code are:

  • Sensor failure.

Possible causes for an FMI 13 diagnostic code are:

  • The sensor is out of calibration or requires calibration.

  • One of the ECMs has failed. This condition is unlikely.


Illustration 1g06403445
Data Link connections

The preceding diagram is a simplified schematic of the data link connections. The schematic is electrically correct. However, not all of the possible harness connectors are shown. Refer to the latest revision of the Electrical Schematic to view the entire circuitry of the machine.

Diagnostic Trouble Code Procedure

Prior to beginning this procedure, inspect the harness connectors that are involved in this circuit. Poor connections can often be the cause of a problem in an electrical circuit. Verify that all connections in the circuit are clean, secure, and in good condition. Check the wiring for pinch points or abrasions. Look for and repair areas that indicate wires are exposed. If a problem with a connection is found, correct the problem and verify that this diagnostic code is active before performing a troubleshooting procedure.

  1. Identify the active FMI code associated with the components.

  2. Determine which code is present and use the list below to determine which procedure to follow.

  • FMI 2 diagnostic code, proceed to Table 4.

  • FMI 9 diagnostic code, proceed to Table 3.

  • FMI 12 diagnostic code, proceed to Table 4.

Table 2
FMI 2 Troubleshooting 
Troubleshooting Test Steps  Values  Results 
1. Inspect The Harness Connections

A. Turn start switch and disconnect switch OFF.

B. Inspect all harness connections related to the CAN data link. Make sure that the connectors are clean and tight.

C. Check the connectors for proper mating. Ensure that all the seals are present and in place.

D. Check the harness for signs of damage or abrasion.

E. Check the wires at the connector. Ensure that the wires are secured tightly into the connector. Take care not to pull the wire out of the connector.

F. Check the exposed wires at the connectors for nicks or signs of abrasion.

G. Check for moisture inside the connector. 

The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion. 
OK - The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion.

Proceed to Test Step 2.

NOT OK - The machine harness connectors are in need of repair.

Repair: Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 3. 
2. Verify The Hardware And The Software Part Numbers(1)

A. Verify that the following information is correct:

-The part number of the flash software for the ECM is correct.
-The part number of the ECM is correct.
-The part numbers of the sensors are correct. 
All of the part numbers are correct  OK - All of the part numbers are correct

Proceed to Test Step 3.

NOT OK - All of the part numbers are not correct

Repair: The ECM or the sensors have the wrong part number or incorrect flash software is installed. Flash the correct software or replace the incorrect ECM or the sensor with a module that has the correct part number. Refer to the Troubleshooting, "ECM - Flash Program" section for additional information

Proceed to Test Step 3. 
3. Check If The Diagnostic Code Remains

A. Turn the start switch and the disconnect switch ON.

B. Clear all diagnostic codes.

C. Operate the machine.

D. Stop the machine and engage the safety lock.

E. Check if the diagnostic code is active. 

The diagnostic code is no longer present. 
OK - The diagnostic code does not exist at this time. The initial diagnostic code may have been caused by poor electrical connection or short at one of the harness connections. Resume machine operation.

STOP.

NOT OK - The diagnostic trouble code has not been corrected. If the diagnostic code has not been corrected after performing the procedure a second time, the ECM may require replacement.

Prior to replacing the ECM, always contact the Technical Communicator at your dealership for possible consultation with Caterpillar. This consultation may effect repair time.

Follow the steps in Troubleshooting, "ECM - Replace" if the ECM needs to be replaced.

STOP. 
(1) Consult your Caterpillar Authorized Dealer for the correct part numbers of the flash software.

Table 3
FMI 9 Troubleshooting 
Troubleshooting Test Steps  Values  Results 
1. Verify The Hardware And The Software Part Numbers(1)

A. Verify that the following information is correct:

-The part number of the flash software for the ECM is correct.
-The part number of the ECM is correct.
-The part numbers of the sensors are correct. 
All of the part numbers are correct.  OK - All of the part numbers are correct

Proceed to Test Step 2.

NOT OK - All of the part numbers are not correct

Repair: The ECM or the sensors have the wrong part number or incorrect flash software is installed. Flash the correct software or replace the incorrect ECM or the sensor with a module that has the correct part number. Refer to the Troubleshooting, "ECM - Flash Program" section for additional information

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
2. Check Voltage At The Sensor

A. Turn the start switch and disconnect switch to the OFF position.

B. At the machine harness connector for the sensor, insert a 7X-1710 Multimeter Probe along the contact for the sensor power supply. Attach the other probe to frame ground.

C. Turn the disconnect switch and start switch to the ON position.

D. Measure the voltage at the sensor between the power supply contact and frame ground. 

The voltage measured is battery voltage. 
OK - The voltage is between 18 VDC and 32 VDC. The sensor is receiving the correct voltage.

Proceed to test step 4.

NOT OK - The voltage reading is not battery voltage. There is a problem with the machine harness or fuse powering the sensor.

Proceed to test step 3. 
3. Check The Ground Circuit For An Open

A. Turn the start switch and disconnect switch to the OFF position.

B. Disconnect the sensor from the machine harness. Disconnect the ECM harness connectors.

C. At the machine harness connector for the sensor, measure the resistance between the return contact and frame ground. 

The reading is less than 5 Ω when connected to frame ground.
(2) 
OK - The resistance measurement is less than 5 Ω(2). The ground circuit is correct.

Proceed to Test Step 4.

NOT OK - The resistance measurement is greater than 5 Ω(2). There is a problem with the machine harness.

Note: A resistance that is greater than 5 Ω but less than 5K Ω would indicate a loose connection or a corroded connection in the circuit. A resistance measurement that is greater than 5K Ω would indicate an open in the circuit.

Repair: Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
4. Inspect The Harness Connections

A. Turn start switch and disconnect switch OFF.

B. Inspect all harness connections related to the CAN data link. Make sure that the connectors are clean and tight.

C. Check the connectors for proper mating. Ensure that all the seals are present and in place.

D. Check the harness for signs of damage or abrasion.

E. Check the wires at the connector. Ensure that the wires are secured tightly into the connector. Take care not to pull the wire out of the connector.

F. Check the exposed wires at the connectors for nicks or signs of abrasion.

G. Check for moisture inside the connector. 

The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion. 
OK - The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion.

Proceed to Test Step 5.

NOT OK - The machine harness connectors are in need of repair.

Repair: Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
5. Check The Voltage Of The Data Link

A. Turn the start switch and the disconnect switch to the ON position.

B. Connect Cat® Electronic Technician (Cat ET) Service Tool and verify which ECMs have logged communication diagnostics. At each ECM or device that is not communicating, use an electrical spoon to measure the voltage. One at a time, measure the voltage of the CAN data link wires to frame ground. 

The reading is 0.5V to 4.5V on each wire. 
OK - The voltages of the wires for the data links are correct.

Proceed to Test Step 8.

NOT OK - The voltage is greater than 4.5 V.

Proceed to Test Step 9.

NOT OK - The voltage is less than 0.5 V.

Proceed to Test Step 6. 
6. Check For Short To Ground In the Data Link

A. The start switch and disconnect switch remain OFF.

B. Disconnect the machine harness connectors from all electronic control modules that use the suspect CAN data link.

C. At the machine harness for the Machine ECM, measure the resistance between frame ground and the positive CAN connector contact of the circuit.

D. At the machine harness for the Machine ECM, measure the resistance between frame ground and the negative CAN connector contact of the circuit. 

The reading is greater than 5K Ω. 
OK - The harness circuit resistance is correct.

Proceed to Test Step 7.

NOT OK - A reading is less than 5 Ω. The machine harness has failed.

Repair: There is a short between frame ground and the contacts of the CAN data link circuit in the machine harness. Repair or replace the machine harness.

Note: A resistance that is greater than 5 Ω but less than 5K Ω would indicate a loose connection or a corroded connection in the circuit. A resistance measurement that is greater than 5K Ω would indicate an open in the circuit.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
7. Check For A Short Between The Data Link Wires

A. The start switch and the disconnect switch remain in the OFF position.

B. Disconnect the terminating resistors if the resistors are a part of the circuit.

C. Measure the continuity between the data link wires. 

The reading is greater than 5K Ω. 
OK - The resistance measurement is correct.

Proceed to Test Step 8.

NOT OK - The resistance measurement is not correct. The wires for the data link are shorted together.

Repair: Repair the machine harness or replace the harness.
Proceed to Test Step 11. 
8. Check The Terminating Resistors

A. The start switch and the disconnect switch remain in the OFF position.

B. The terminating resistors remain disconnected.

C. Check the terminating resistor connectors for the following:

-Moisture
-Corrosion
-Damaged Terminals
-Loose Connections

D. Measure the resistance between terminal A and B of each terminating resistor that was removed from the CAN circuit. 

The reading is approx. 120 Ω. 
OK - Both resistance measurements are approximately 120 Ω. The terminating resistors have not failed. Reinstall the terminating resistors.

Proceed to Test Step 9.

NOT OK - One or both resistance measurements are not approximately 120 Ω. At least one of the resistors is not functioning properly.

Repair: Replace the terminating resistor or resistors that have failed. Reinstall the terminating resistor that has not failed.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
9. Check For A Short To +Battery Circuit In The Data Link

A. The start switch and disconnect switch are OFF.

B. All related modules remain disconnected from the machine harness.

C. At the machine harness connector for the Machine ECM, measure the resistance between the connector contact for the +Battery and the positive CAN connector contact.

D. At the machine harness connector for the Machine ECM, measure the resistance between the connector contact for the +Battery and the negative CAN connector contact. 

The reading is greater than 5K Ω. 
OK - The harness circuit resistance is correct.

Proceed to Test Step 10.

NOT OK - A reading is less than 5 Ω. The machine harness has failed.

Repair: There is a short between the +battery circuit and one of the CAN data link circuits in the machine harness. Repair or replace the machine harness.

Note: A resistance that is greater than 5 Ω but less than 5K Ω would indicate a loose connection or a corroded connection in the circuit. A resistance measurement that is greater than 5K Ω would indicate an open in the circuit.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
10. Check The Data Link For An Open

Note: Two 120 Ω resistors should be located on the CAN Data Link. A resistance of 60 Ω should be found at any point on the data link.

A. The start switch and disconnect switch are OFF.

B. Use an electrical spoon to connect to the back of the harness connector for each ECM that has communication issues.

C. Measure the resistance across the CAN line at each connector to find the open wire. 

All resistance measurements are between 55 and 65 Ω 
OK - The resistance measurements are correct.

Proceed to Step 11.

NOT OK - At least one resistance measurement is greater than 65 Ω. If the resistance is approximately 115 to 125 Ω. There is an open in the harness.
If the resistance measurement is 60 Ω, that connector does not have an open between either terminating resistor. If the resistance measurement is 120 Ω, there is an open at that connector, between one of the terminating resistors. If the resistance is greater than 5000 Ω, there is an open between that connector and both terminating resistors. If there is a measurement of 40 Ω, there is an extra terminating resistor somewhere on the line. Once the section of harness containing the open is isolated, repair or replace the machine harness.

Repair: Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 11.

NOT OK - At least one resistance measurement is less than 55 Ω.

Repair: Look for the source of the short by disconnecting the terminating resistors and check the resistance again. If the resistance is still under 55 Ω, continue disconnecting ECMs and devices from the CAN circuit until the resistance goes up.
If everything is disconnected from the CAN circuit, and the resistance still is less than 55 Ω the harness has failed.

Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 11. 
11. Check If The Diagnostic Code Remains

A. Reconnect all harness connectors. Return the machine to normal operating condition.

B. Turn the start switch and the disconnect switch ON.

C. Clear all diagnostic codes.

D. Operate the machine.

E. Stop the machine and engage the safety lock lever.

F. Check if the diagnostic code is active. 

The diagnostic code is no longer present. 
OK - The diagnostic code does not exist at this time. The initial diagnostic code may have been caused by poor electrical connection or short at one of the harness connections. Resume machine operation.
STOP.

NOT OK - The diagnostic trouble code has not been corrected. If the diagnostic code has not been corrected after performing the procedure a second time, the ECM may require replacement.

Prior to replacing the ECM, always contact the Technical Communicator at your dealership for possible consultation with Caterpillar. This consultation may effect repair time.

Follow the steps in Troubleshooting, "ECM - Replace" if the ECM needs to be replaced.

STOP. 
(1) Consult your Caterpillar Authorized Dealer for the correct part numbers of the flash software.
(2) The resistance reading through an ECM may be higher than 5 Ω.

Table 4
FMI 12 Troubleshooting 
Troubleshooting Test Steps  Values  Results 
1. Inspect The Harness Connections

A. Turn start switch and disconnect switch OFF.

B. Inspect all harness connections related to the CAN data link. Make sure that the connectors are clean and tight.

C. Check the connectors for proper mating. Ensure that all the seals are present and in place.

D. Check the harness for signs of damage or abrasion.

E. Check the wires at the connector. Ensure that the wires are secured tightly into the connector. Take care not to pull the wire out of the connector.

F. Check the exposed wires at the connectors for nicks or signs of abrasion.

G. Check for moisture inside the connector. 

The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion. 
OK - The machine harness connectors are tight and free of corrosion.

Proceed to Test Step 2.

NOT OK - The machine harness connectors are in need of repair.

Repair: Repair or replace the machine harness.

Proceed to Test Step 2. 
2. Check If The Diagnostic Code Remains

A. Turn the start switch and the disconnect switch ON.

B. Clear all diagnostic codes.

C. Operate the machine.

D. Stop the machine and engage the safety lock.

E. Check if the diagnostic code is active. 

The diagnostic code is no longer present. 
OK - The diagnostic code does not exist at this time. The initial diagnostic code may have been caused by poor electrical connection or short at one of the harness connections. Resume machine operation.

STOP.

NOT OK - The diagnostic trouble code has not been corrected. If the diagnostic code has not been corrected, the sensor may require replacement.

STOP. 

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