The diagnostics for a system's ECM can be accessed through any service tool in this list.
• Vital Information Management System (VIMS)
• Caterpillar Monitoring System
• Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET)
• Electronic Control Analyzer Programmer (ECAP)
Troubleshooting a system requires additional information from the machine's Service Manual. The additional manuals that may be required are the Electrical System Schematic, the Parts Manual and the Operation and Maintenance Manual for the machine that is being serviced.
As a guide, a simplified system schematic is included at the end of this manual. For an accurate representation of the machine that is being diagnosed, refer to Electrical System Schematic in the Service Manual for the machine that is being serviced.
When the troubleshooting procedure instructs you to "REPAIR THE HARNESS", use the Electrical System Schematic for the machine that is being serviced to trace the circuit. Perform continuity checks at the harness connectors in order to locate harness failures. At the connectors of the components, always check the ground circuit. There must be less than five ohms of resistance between any system ground and the frame ground. Excessive ground resistance that is greater than five ohms can cause incorrect diagnosing of problems.
During troubleshooting, inspect all connections before any component is replaced. If these connections are not clean and tight, permanent electrical problems or intermittent electrical problems can result. Check that the wires are pushed into the connectors completely. Make sure that the connections are tight before other tests are made.
If wire insulation is punctured during troubleshooting, repair the damage. Seal the damaged wires with 8T-0065 RTV Silicone Sealant. Cover the sealant with two layers of 1P-0810 Tape .
Failure of an electrical component can cause the failure of other components. Also, failure of an electrical component can be caused by the failure of other components. Always attempt to correct the cause of an electrical system failure before you replace a component.
When you are removing the machine harness from any ECM, use the single screw in the center of the harness connector.
