Programming Parameters

TM 9-2320-312-24-2

Troubleshooting Section

Programming Parameters

Use ET to start the Test ECM Mode. Access the

feature through the "Service" menu. ET will display

the status of the test ECM and the hours that are

remaining for the Test ECM Mode.

i01585627

Programming Parameters

Test ECM Mode can only be activated if the engine

serial number has not already been programmed

SMCS Code: 1900

during normal operation of the ECM. If the engine

serial number is programmed and the ECM is not

Many programmable parameters affect the engine

in Test ECM Mode, the ECM can never be used

operation. These parameters may be changed by

as a test ECM.

using ET. The parameters are stored in the ECM.

The parameters are not stored in the personality

While the ECM is in Test ECM Mode, the ECM

module. Any parameter can be read. However,

can be programmed to meet the needs of the

passwords protect parameters from unauthorized

application. This is accomplished by copying the

changes.

original configuration of the ECM to the test ECM.

Two categories contain various parameters, System

When the Test ECM Mode is activated, an internal

Configuration Parameters and Customer Specified

timer sets a 24 hour clock. This clock will count

Parameters. System Configuration Parameters can

down only while the ECM is powered and the key

be altered only with the proper factory passwords

switch is in the ON position. After the ECM has

by using the Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET).

counted down the 24 hour period, the ECM will

exit the Test ECM Mode. The parameters, the

Customer Specified Parameters can be changed by

accumulated mileage, and the engine serial number

using ET only with the proper customer passwords.

will be set.

Refer to Troubleshooting, "Customer Passwords"

and Troubleshooting, "Factory Passwords" for

Once an ECM has been activated in the Test ECM

additional information.

Mode, the ECM will stay in the Test ECM Mode until

the timer times out. If the ECM is used as a test

ECM for more than one engine, the Test ECM Mode

Programming a New ECM

must be reactivated. Anytime prior to the Test ECM

Mode timing out,the ECM can be reset to 24 hours.

The Engine Control Module or the ECM is the

brain of the system. So when a problem occurs,

Replacing the ECM with the Use of

it is easy to assume that the ECM is responsible.

This is usually the wrong assumption. Most failures

the ECM Replacement Feature from

occur at the wiring and connectors or at a sensor

Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET)

input or sensor output. Follow the procedures in

the troubleshooting guide, and do not replace

1. Ensure that the ECM is the problem by first

an ECM on an assumption. However, when your

connecting a test ECM. This is a temporary

troubleshooting indicates that a failure has in fact

connection. Hang the test ECM on the side of the

occurred in the ECM, use the following procedure

engine. Flash program the identical Personality

to replace a faulty ECM.

Module that was used in the suspect ECM into

the test ECM. Use the ECM Replacement Feature

Note: If a replacement for the ECM is required, the

in ET to copy the parameters from the ECM that

customer parameters and the timing calibration

is suspect. Copy these parameters into the test

can be transferred from the suspect ECM to the

ECM. Ensure that the parameters in the test ECM

replacement ECM. Timing calibration will not be

are equal to the parameters in the suspect ECM.

necessary. This feature requires the Caterpillar

Electronic Technician (ET) and this feature is only

2. If the test ECM repairs the problem, reconnect

possible if the suspect ECM can communicate with

the suspect ECM. Verify that the problem returns

ET.

when the suspect ECM is reconnected.

Test ECM Mode

3. Select the ECM Replacement Feature under the

"Service/Copy Configuration" menu and load the

Test ECM Mode is a feature in the software that can

parameters from the failed ECM.

be used to help troubleshoot an engine that may

have a problem with the ECM. This feature allows a

4. Temporarily connect the new ECM by connecting

standard ECM to be used as a test ECM. Using an

both ECM connectors. Do not mount the ECM

ECM that has this capability eliminates the need to

on the engine yet.

stock a test ECM. Test ECM Mode is available with

engine software that is dated APR01 and later.