Common Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes

Jul 13

Agricultural machinery plays a crucial role in modern farming, making it possible to carry out tasks ranging from planting, harvesting, and crop fertilization. Sophisticated tech and machinery come with advanced features and systems powered by complex software and hardware. As a result, it's not uncommon to encounter fault codes in these machines. In this article, we'll discuss common agricultural vehicle fault codes, what they mean, and how to solve and prevent them.

What are Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes?

Agriculture machinery, like other heavy machinery, is controlled by a network of software systems and sensors. Fault codes occur when a software system or sensor discovers a problem that is not within the predetermined threshold. These codes serve as a warning system to alert the operator of the machinery and the repair technician that the machine requires attention.

What Causes Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes?

There are several reasons why agricultural machinery can develop fault codes. Some of the most common causes include:

Sensor Malfunction: Sensors are located all over the machinery and measure several parameters. The machine's computer relies on the information they provide. When a sensor malfunctions, the machine's computer may send an error code to alert the operator.
Electrical Issues: Damage to wires or the electrical component of the machinery can result in fault codes.
Software Issues: Bugs in the software code can result in error codes. These can happen even before the software is installed in the machinery or as the machinery is operating.
Wear and Tear: With continuous usage of the machinery, some components can undergo wear and tear, leading to issues and faults. In such cases, sensors can detect variations in performance, triggering an error code.

Understanding Common Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes

Here are some of the most common agricultural vehicle fault codes:

- Error Code ECU 000100.05: This error code is related to the machinery's dashboard. It indicates that there's a technical problem in the dashboard's communication network.

- Error Code ECU 000097.07: This error code occurs when the machine's computer detects a problem with the hydraulic system.

- Error Code ECU 000110.03: This code alerts the operator that there is an issue with the coolant system and indicates low coolant levels.

- Error Code ECU 000629.03: This error code occurs when there's an issue with the machinery's air pressure system.

How to Understand Agricultural Fault Codes?

The fault code begins with a number that indicates whether the error is only specific to a particular manufacturer or if it is common to all systems. The last three digits provide additional information about the electrical circuit and system involved. Jaltest users who need more details can refer to the fault code descriptions, which provide a concise explanation of the fault and the related system. These descriptions are simple and easy to understand, making the task of fault diagnosis much simpler.

Diagnostic Tools and Solutions for Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes

Diagnosing the exact cause of an agricultural vehicle fault code requires specialized diagnostic tools. In most cases, operators of the machinery can use the manufacturer's manual to identify the problem. Modern machinery manufacturers provide software programs that can help operators troubleshoot different issues, providing detailed diagnostic solutions. You can also use Jaltest AGV to help you pinpoint exactly what is wrong and how to fix it.

Maintenance and Prevention of Agricultural Vehicle Fault Codes

To avoid fault codes, regular maintenance should be a routine aspect of machinery operation. Maintenance activities should include:

- Regular cleaning of filters, screens, and vents.

- Regular oil/filter changes as per manufacturer recommendations.

- Regular inspection of connectors, wires, and harnesses.

- Regular inspection of sensors, switches, and relays.

Conclusion

Fault codes in agricultural machinery can lead to significant losses and reduced efficiency. Understanding common fault codes, their causes, and diagnostic solutions can help operators minimize machinery downtime. Regular maintenance is key to preventing fault codes from occurring. With these tips, farmers and agricultural machine owners can reduce machinery downtime and increase productivity.

Kevin Vieth

Kevin Vieth founded VieTech Training & Consulting Inc. in 2016 out of a passion for empowering heavy-duty and automotive service technicians through technical training. Due to the fast pace of technological advancements, he believes that on-going knowledge and skill development is imperative. With the operational pressures applied to business managers, skills training can be inconvenient, inaccessible and costly. This motivated Kevin to develop the Diesel Engine Technology Fundamentals in-class training curriculum to provide relevant and realistic diesel technology diagnostic training that is on-site, on-time and on-budget.

As a former technical Training Instructor for Cummins Western Canada, Kevin has delivered over 125 Cummins engine certification courses to over 500 heavy-duty technicians. Prior to his time with Cummins, he worked as a journeyman 310S automotive technician and then spent 3 years as a technical lead for Westport Innovations, a world leader in natural gas fuel system development. Kevin’s experience as a service technician, combined with his knowledge of fuel, emissions and engine controls acquired at Westport, helped him excel as a Cummins trainer and in diesel engine fault troubleshooting.

In addition to delivering on-site diesel engine diagnostic training to fleets nation-wide, Kevin also provides on-going remote troubleshooting and technical support to his clients.

https://www.vietech.ca