The 8-3 Flash Code is associated with the Chip Spreader Solenoid. The Flash code 8-3 means that the "Main" ECM has detected a Level 1 fault for the solenoid.
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| Illustration 1 | g01955910 |
Schematic of the Chip Spreader Solenoid | |
Note: Before performing this procedure, inspect the harness connectors that are involved in the circuit. Poor connections can often be the cause of a problem in an electrical circuit. Verify that all connections in the circuit are clean, that all connections are secure and that all connections are in good condition. If a problem with a connection is found, correct the problem and verify that this flash code is active before performing this procedure.
Possible conditions which could occur in this circuit include the following:
- Open circuit
- Short to ground
- Faulty coil
- Poor Connection
Test Step 1. CHECK THE ENERGIZE CIRCUIT OF THE SOLENOID FOR A SHORT
- Turn the disconnect switch and the key start switch to the OFF position.
- Disconnect the machine harness at the solenoid. Disconnect the machine harness connector from the ECM.
- At the machine harness connector for the Main ECM, measure the resistance from contact 45 (wire L998-OR) to all of the other contacts that are used in the connector for the ECM.
Expected Result:
Each resistance measurement is greater than 5000 ohms.
Results:
- YES - Each resistance measurement is greater than 5000 ohms. The resistance measurement does not indicate a short in the machine harness. Proceed to Test Step 2.
- NO - Each resistance measurement is not greater than 5000 ohms. There is a short in the machine harness.
Repair: The short is between wire L998-OR and the circuit that has a low resistance measurement.For information on testing for short circuits and finding short circuits, refer to Testing and Adjusting, "Wiring Harness (Short Circuit) - Test". Repair the machine harness or replace the machine harness.
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Test Step 2. CHECK THE CIRCUIT FOR AN OPEN
- The disconnect switch and the key start switch remain in the OFF position.
- The machine harness remains disconnected from the ECM.
- At the machine harness connector for the solenoid, place a jumper wire from contact 1 (wire L998-OR) to contact 2 (wire 200-BK).
- At the machine harness connector for the Main ECM, measure the resistance from contact 45 (wire L998-OR) to contact 1 (wire 200-BK).
- Observe the multimeter resistance measurement. Wiggle the machine harness connectors for the ECM. Wiggle the machine harness connector for the solenoid. Gently pull on the wires and move the wires around.
Expected Result:
The resistance measurement is less than 5.0 ohms at all times during the manipulation of the harness and connectors.
Results:
- OK - The resistance measurement is less than 5.0 ohms. The resistance measurement is not indicating an open or a bad connection in the circuit. Proceed to Test Step 3.
- NOT OK - The resistance measurement is greater than 5.0 ohms. The resistance measurement is indicating an open circuit or a bad connection in the machine harness.
Repair: A resistance measurement that is greater than 5000 ohms could indicate that a wire is either not connected or that a wire is open. A resistance measurement that is greater than 5.0 ohms but less than 5000 ohms could indicate that one of the connection points in the circuit is not open but is not a good connection.The open or possible bad connection is in supply wire L998-OR or in return wire 200-BK of the machine harness. Refer to the complete Electrical System Schematic of the machine. Check all of the connectors that are in the solenoid circuit. Ensure that all connections are clean, that all connections are secure and that all connections are in good condition. Repair the machine harness or replace the machine harness.
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Test Step 3. CHECK THE SOLENOID
- Remove the jumper wire that was installed in the previous Test Step.
- Inspect the harness connectors. Clean the contacts of the harness connectors. Check the wires for damage to the insulation that is caused by excessive heat, corrosion, or chafing.
- Perform a 45 N (10 lb) pull test on each of the wires that are associated with the circuit.
- Reconnect all harness connectors. Make sure that the connectors are fully seated. Observe that the clips for each connector are completely fastened.
- Turn the disconnect switch and the key start switch to the ON position.
- Operate the machine.
- Determine if the 8-3 flash code is active.
Expected Result:
The 8-3 flash code is active.
Results:
- YES - The 8-3 flash code is active. The solenoid has failed.
Repair: Repeat this Test Step "CHECK THE SOLENOID" in order to verify the solenoid failure. The resistance of the solenoid coil should be 6.6 +5/-2 ohms at 20 °C (68.0 °F). Replace the solenoid. Verify that the new solenoid corrects the problem.If the problem remains, the ECM may have failed. This is unlikely because the ECM detected the open circuit condition in the solenoid circuit.Verify that all possible causes of the flash code have been investigated. Exit this procedure and perform this procedure again.Prior to replacing an ECM, always contact your dealership's Technical Communicator for possible consultation with Caterpillar. This consultation may greatly reduce repair time. If the cause of the flash code is not found and the ECM must be replaced, refer to Testing and Adjusting, "Electronic Control Module (ECM) - Replace".
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- NO - The 8-3 flash code is not active. The problem does not exist at this time.
Repair: The initial flash code was probably caused by a poor electrical connection or a short at one of the harness connectors that was disconnected and reconnected. Resume normal machine operation.
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