- Engine:
- C11 (S/N: KCA1-UP)
- C13 (S/N: KCB1-UP; LEE1-UP)
- C15 (S/N: SDP1-UP; BXS1-UP; MXS1-UP; NXS1-UP)
- C7 (S/N: KAL1-UP; SAP1-UP; C7S1-UP; WAX1-UP)
- C9 (S/N: MTB1-UP; MFF1-UP; 9DG1-UP; C9S1-UP)
- C13 (S/N: KCB1-UP; LEE1-UP)
Introduction
This Special Instruction will provide instructions for installation, configuration and troubleshooting of the Product Link PL421.
Important Safety Information
Work safely. Most accidents that involve product operation, maintenance, and repair are caused by failure to observe basic safety rules or precautions. An accident can often be avoided by recognizing potentially hazardous situations before an accident occurs.
A person must be alert to potential hazards. This person must also have the necessary training, skills, and tools in order to perform these functions properly.
Safety precautions and warnings are provided in this instruction and on the product. If these hazard warnings are not heeded, bodily injury or death could occur to you or to other persons. Caterpillar cannot anticipate every possible circumstance of a potential hazard.
Therefore, the warnings in this publication and the warnings that are on the product are not all inclusive. Avoid using a tool, a procedure, a work method, or operating technique that is not recommended by Caterpillar. If used, ensure the safety of the operating personnel and others.
Ensure that the product will not be damaged or the product will be made unsafe by the operation, lubrication, maintenance, or the repair procedures.
Structural damage, an overturn, modification, alteration, or improper repair can impair this structure's protection capability thereby voiding this certification. Do not weld on or drill holes in the structure. Consult a Caterpillar dealer to determine this structure's limitations without voiding its certification. |
PL421 System Components
Illustration 1 | g03479497 |
386-3004 Communication Electronic Control Module (PL421) |
Illustration 2 | g03479523 |
375-6374 Antenna |
Illustration 3 | g03479546 |
Vocational truck harness 394-8813 Communication Wiring Gp |
PL421 Wiring Schematic
Illustration 4 | g03479589 |
Illustration 5 | g03479687 |
PL421 Connector |
PL421 14-Pin Connector Wiring Chart     | |
---|---|
PL421 Connector Pin     | Function     |
1     | Battery +     |
2     | Battery -     |
3     | Key Switch     |
4     | R Terminal     |
5     | N/A     |
6     | N/A     |
7     | N/A     |
8     | Digital Output 2: 5 V Control     |
9     | Digital Input 2: Tamper     |
10     | Digital Input 1: Exception Alert     |
11     | J1939 -     |
12     | J1939 +     |
13     | Digital Output 1: Relay Out     |
14     | Digital Input 3     |
Instructions for Installing the PL421 Unit on a Truck
Tools and Supplies
- T20 Torx type screw driver
- Drill
- Non-residue alcohol wipes (1 per unit)
- Tyco pin removal tool
- Industrial Velcro® with adhesive backing
- Tie wraps (at least 4 inches long)
- Circuit tester or Volt/ Ohm/ Meter
- Fuse holder assembly (one per truck)
- 1 Amp fuse (one per truck)
- Wire butt splices (2 per truck) for 18 Gauge wire
Preparing the Cab
Illustration 6 | g03480017 |
Behind glove box location |
Illustration 7 | g03480018 |
Above window location |
- Find a location for installing the PL421 module. Refer to Illustration 6 or Illustration 7 for possible locations.
- Connect power, ground, and if available, J1939 datalink in service connector.
Note: Trucks without J1939 report location only, while trucks with J1939 report hours, location, and diagnostics.
GPS antenna installation
- Cut matching pieces of Industrial Strength Velcro, approximately the same size of the GPS antenna. Locate the reinforcement rib closest to the right side of the cab. The GPS antenna will be mounted on the flat portion of the plastic surface, centered on the rib. To remove body oils from handling, wipe down the back of the GPS antenna and the plastic dash area with an alcohol wipe.
- Allow the areas to air dry. Remove the tape from the Velcro and apply the self sticking adhesive backed Velcro to the dash and the back of the GPS antenna. Press the matching pieces of Velcro together to secure the antenna to the dash and rout the antenna wire as shown.
Location for Mounting the Antenna
Note: The antenna is preassembled with lock washer, nut, 0.5 mm (0.02 inch) coaxial cable and radio connectors. Brackets that are specific for the truck may be available for the application.
Check the list of parts for the truck.
- To comply with regulations of FCC for RF human body safety, ensure that antenna is mounted more than 500 mm (19.7 inch) from truck operator.
- Orient the antenna so that the top of the antenna is in a horizontal position with a clear 360 degree view of the sky. In-dash installation is acceptable/recommended depending on placement.
- Mount the antenna more than 500 mm (19.7 inch) from the PL421 in order to minimize interference between the radio and the antenna.
- Keep a distance between the PL421 antenna and other antennas that transmit a radio signal. Caterpillar recommends a distance of 1 m (3.3 ft). Keep no less than 500 mm (19.7 inch) between the PL421 antenna and other antennas that transmit a radio signal. The list of radio antennas to maintain a distance from include the citizen band radio, data radio and commercial communication radios.
- Keep in mind the routing of the antenna cable. Do not route the antenna cable near any source of extreme heat (exhaust). Do not mount the antenna or the antenna cable so that the limitations of temperature −40° C (−40.0° F) and 85° C (185.0° F) are exceeded.
- Route the antenna cable so the cable would not be subject to abrasion or pinching.
- Route the antenna cable with a minimum bend radius of 49.5 mm (1.94 inch). Bend radius depends on the type of cable used. Do not bend the radius any less than ten times the diameter of the cable. The cable used is LMR 200UF .
The mounting hole diameter considered is 19 mm (0.75 inch).
Illustration 8 | g02698678 |
GPS coverage area is 215 degrees
Mounting the PL421 unit
Wire Connection Worksheet     | ||
---|---|---|
Description     | PL421 Pin Number     |
PL421 Wire Color     |
Unswitched Battery +     | 1     | Red     |
Ground     | 2     | Black     |
Ignition     | 3     | Brown     |
CAN -     | 11     | Green     |
CAN +     | 12     | Yellow     |
- Install the fuse holder in the Red wire to Pin 1 of the connector. Install a 1 Amp fuse into the fuse holder.
Illustration 9 | g03480077 |
- Route the fuse holder next to the PL421 pigtail. Use a plastic zip tie to secure the fuse holder to the pigtail for easy serviceability.
- Insert the provided pigtail cable into the PL421. Plug the pigtail cable into the dash harness.
Illustration 10 | g02725227 |
- Install the PL421 unit with bracket. Do not stretch the wires as stretching will cause intermittent operation of the PL421.
- Install Blast Warning Label on visor.
Connecting to the CAN Data Link
The SAE J1939 data link is used to communicate information. The key components to note are as follows,
- The total length of the data link between terminal resistors must not exceed 40 m (131.2 ft)
- Length of each branch, or stub length, must not exceed 1 m (3.3 ft). Reference 165-0200 Cable As that is 0.15 m (0.492 ft)with deutsch connector DT 3 pin plug on one end and J1939 signal and shield wires with appropriate crimped socket on the other end for insertion into J1939 module connector
- All splices and end nodes can be implemented using a connector tee. (Reference deutsch connector DT receptacle assembly 133-0970 Connector Receptacle As )
- A terminal resistor is required at each end of the data link in order to ensure proper operation. (Reference deutsch connector DT plug with integrated termination resistor 174-3016 Connector Plug As ). One side is already terminated within PL421 module, so only one required.
- Connect key switch into ignition circuitry.
Note: Various spade connectors for the ignition wire connections are used.
- Terminate unused wires.
Record Status
If there is an issue with the installation or a question regarding the status at the time of installation, creating screenshots will aid in the investigation. Create screenshots before disconnecting Cat ET and leaving the truck.
- Connect Communication Adapter and PC with Cat ET. With Key Switch ON, select the PL421 ECM. Allow the PL421 to access satellites and cell phone towers. Accessing the satellites and cell phone towers make take a few seconds.
- Record screen shots of the ECM summary and all three Status Screens. Paste screen shots into Word file. Record VIN # in the same Word file.
Ordering Process
To Subscribe to Services for a New PL421
Note: See your Product Link Administrator for assistance.
Note: For further information, refer to the following website for the Release Notes and Training link:
http://dealer.cat.com/pl- Verify that the asset is defined under the correct customer account in the Cat Equipment Data database.
- Log into VisionLink Store.
- Select the "Initiate Service" tab.
- Enter "Asset Serial No." and "Asset Make".
Illustration 11 | g03486176 |
- Select the "Search" button.
- The "VisionLink Store" will retrieve ownership information from the "Equipment Data" system. If the asset is not defined in "Equipment Data", an error message will be displayed.
Illustration 12 | g03486205 |
- After reviewing all fields, select the "Continue" button to advance to the "Service Selection" screen.
Illustration 13 | g03486264 |
- Choose the appropriate service plans on the "Service Selection" screen to be activated.
- Click the "Add to Cart" button to view the current "Shopping Cart".
- Proceed with checking out until a confirmation order number is provided.
Configuration
Diagnostic Capabilities
Connecting a Computer to the PL421
Required Software
This system requires Caterpillar Electronic Technician (Cat ET) version 2011B or later.
Note: Always update Cat ET to the latest version in order to access all of the available functionality of the PL421.
Supported Hardware Connections
The PL421 is configured with Cat ET and will use the following communications interfaces:
- The 317-7484 Communication Adapter Gp (Caterpillar Communications Adapter III) hardware is connected between the truck service connector and the PC serial port or parallel port. The Cat ET "Communications Interface Device" is configured for the "Caterpillar Communications Adapter III".
Note: The configuration parameters for the "Communications Interface Device" are found in Cat ET under "Utilities" menu, "Preferences" drop-down menu.
Cat ET is a software program that is used to access data. The service technician can use Cat ET in order to perform maintenance on the truck. Some of the options that are available with Cat ET are listed below:
- Viewing the status of parameters.
- Printing reports.
The following list contains some of the diagnostic functions and programming functions that are performed by the service tools.
- The failures of the ECM system are displayed.
- The settings for the ECM are displayed.
- Display the clock hour of the internal diagnostic clock.
- The number of occurrences and the clock hour of the first occurrence and the last occurrence is displayed for each logged diagnostic code.
- The definition for each logged diagnostic code and each event is displayed.
Configure Computer Interface Communications for Cat ET
- Use the Communication Adapter Gp to connect a computer with the required Cat ET software to the serial service connector of the wiring harness.
- Select "Utilities" on the tool bar.
- From the drop-down menu, select "Preference".
- From the "Communications" tab, click the drop-down menu and select "Caterpillar Communications Adapter III".
- Click the "Connect" icon or click "File" on the menu bar. Click "Connect" from the pull-down menu in order to establish communication with the PL421.
Illustration 14 | g03480319 |
Illustration 14 shows the two ECMs that are available for connection.
Status Groups for Caterpillar Electronic Technician (Cat ET)
In order to access the status groups, follow the procedure that is listed below.
- Select the "Information" tab on the menu bar.
- Click "Status" (1) or click the "Status" icon (2) on the tool bar. Refer to Illustration 15.
Illustration 15 | g02174312 |
(1) Status on Menu Bar (2) Status Icon on Tool Bar |
The status groups should be used in order to verify that the installation of the PL421 module has been successful.
There are only three screens available in Cat ET for verifying and servicing the PL421 system.
"Status Parameters" Screen
Illustration 16 | g03481239 |
"Status Parameters" screen |
Illustration 17 | g03481284 |
"Status Parameters" screen |
Illustration 18 | g03481301 |
"Status Parameters" screen |
Illustration 19 | g03481318 |
"Status Parameters" screen |
Illustration 20 | g03481351 |
"Status Parameters" screen |
Connected to PL421 showing status. The PL421 "Status Parameters" screens show the current operational status of the PL421. Refer to Illustrations 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20.
Status Information for PL421     | |
---|---|
PL421 Information     | Description     |
GPS Receiver     | Functional : The hardware for the GPS receiver is functional     |
Not Functional : The hardware for the GPS receiver is not functional | |
Possible Device Power Disconnection     | Yes : The PL421 has missed reports due to a power loss. This value is reset automatically after the status reported to the office.     |
No : The PL421 has not missed any scheduled reports due to power loss. |
"GPS Information" Status
Illustration 21 | g03480656 |
GPS information displayed |
The PL421 "GPS Information" screen shows the status of the GPS. Refer Illustration 21. Refer to Table 4 for an explanation of the GPS-related parameters.
GPS Information Parameters     | |
---|---|
Status     | Description     |
PC Current Date/Time     | The current Date and Time of the host PC is displayed.     |
GPS Position Status     | Valid: The Product Link Module has previously calculated a valid fix. Invalid: The Product Link Module has not calculated a previous fix.     |
GPS Time Stamp     | The time stamp from the last fix is displayed. The time can be compared to the Current Date/Time to verify that the time since the last position was calculated.     |
GPS Latitude     | The last valid GPS Latitude is displayed.     |
GPS Longitude     | The last valid GPS Longitude is displayed.     |
Number of GPS Satellites     | The number of GPS satellites currently in use by the GPS receiver. (1)     |
GPS Antenna     | GPS Antenna Operational - The antenna is operational. GPS Antenna Fault - There is an issue with the antenna. GPS Antenna is not installed - The antenna is not installed or is disconnected.     |
( 1 ) | Three or more satellites are needed to get an updated position fix. |
Illustration 22 | g02703497 |
GSM information displayed |
Cellular Information Parameters     | |
---|---|
Status     | Description     |
Cellular network coverage status     | In Coverage - Attached to network. Out of coverage - Not attached to network. Check Trimble Store subscriptions and SIM activation. Network Not Allowed - No coverage in the area from the SIM provider (or partner).     |
Cellular Signal Quality     | Display percentage values (0 percent, 5 percent, 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent, and 100 percent). If a value is shown, a cell tower can be seen.     |
Cellular Device Data Network Registration Status     | Searching - Device is currently trying to attach or searching a network to register to. Not Attached - Device is not attached to the network and is not searching a network to register to. Attached Home - Device is registered to a home network. Attached Roaming - Device is registered to a roaming network. Registration Denied - Device is not allowed to attach to the network. Authentication failure or GRPS service is not active. Unknown - Unknown error in registration process.     |
Cellular Packet Data Protocol (PDP) Context Activation Status     | Active - Can communicate. Not Active - Cannot communicate. Likely incorrect APN or network denied. Missing or Unknown APN - Possible masterboard problem.     |
SIM Card Status     | Active - Functional. Not Active - Contact DSN to have the SIM activated. Not Detected - Modem cannot detect the SIM card. Failure - Check activation with network. Possible failed SIM card. Need PIN - Obtain security PIN from SIM provider. Need PUK - SIM card is blocked. Need PUK from SIM provider to unlock SIM.     |
SIM Card Number     | Unique identifier for the SIM card     |
Cellular Service Provider Name     | SPN (Ex: AT&T, T - Mobile)     |
Cellular Network Disconnection Timestamp     | Last time the cellular modem lost connection with the cellular network     |
International Mobile Equipment Identity Number (IMEI)     | A unique 15-digit or 17-digit code used to identify a GSM device to the GSM network. IMEI number is used by the GSM network to identify valid devices.     |
Symptom Procedures
Electronic Service Tool Does Not Communicate with ECM
System Operation Description
During the installation of a PL421 system, the wiring harness is connected to the existing Data Link wiring on the truck. If the installation is not done properly, the continuity of the wiring may be open intermittently. This condition may not be apparent immediately. Improper installation will cause a problem when you are trying to connect the Caterpillar Electronic Technician (Cat ET) service tool to the truck.
- Cat ET may report that no ECM has been found.
- Cat ET may not report every ECM that is on the truck.
- Cat ET may report an ECM but the ECM will not have any data.
If the Data Link wires for the PL421 are reversed, the ECM will not appear after connecting Cat ET.
Test Step 1. VERIFY THAT THE DATA LINK WIRES ARE NOT REVERSED.
A
Check that the positive Data Link wire (893-GN) in the wiring harness for the PL421 is connected to the positive Data Link wire of the wire harness for the truck.
B
Check that the negative Data Link wire (892-BR) in the wiring harness for the PL421 is connected to the negative Data Link wire of the wire harness for the truck.
PL421 14-Pin Connector Wiring Chart     | |
---|---|
PL421 Connector Pin     | Function     |
1     | Battery +     |
2     | Battery -     |
3     | Key Switch     |
4     | R Terminal     |
5     | N/A     |
6     | N/A     |
7     | N/A     |
8     | Digital Output 2: 5 V Control     |
9     | Digital Input 2: Tamper     |
10     | Digital Input 1: Exception Alert     |
11     | J1939 -     |
12     | J1939 +     |
13     | Digital Output 1: Relay Out     |
14     | Digital Input 3     |
Expected Result
The Data Link wires are properly connected.
Results
- OK - The wires for the Data Link are properly connected. Proceed to ""Test Step 2"
".
- NOT OK - The wires for the Data Link are reversed.
Repair
Reinstall the Data Link wires correctly and check the operation of the PL421 module by using Cat ET.
STOP.
Test Step 2. CHECK THE WIRING WITH A MULTIMETER.
A
Turn off the truck and turn the disconnect switch to the OPEN position.
B
Measure the resistance of the negative Data Link wire from the service connector to the location for the spliced Data Link wire. Note the resistance.
C
Measure the resistance of the positive Data Link wire from the service connector (contact "D") to the location for the spliced Data Link wire. Note the resistance.
Expected Result
The resistance in both wires is less than 5 ohms.
Results
- OK - The resistance is less than 5 ohms. Proceed to ""Test Step 3"
".
- NOT OK - The resistance is greater than 5 ohms.
Repair
Repair the wiring harness. After repairing, resume the PL421 installation setup procedures.
STOP.
Test Step 3. VERIFY THAT THE WIRING FOR THE DATALINK IS PROPERLY CONNECTED.
A
Check the spliced connections for the Data Link that were made during the installation. Verify that all connections are clean and tight.
B
Reconnect the harness connectors that were disturbed during the installation. Ensure that all of the pins are correctly seated in the sockets.
C
Reconnect the cable from the service tool connector. Attempt to access the Data Link J1939 by using Cat ET.
Expected Result
Cat ET lists the ECM systems that are available on the truck. The ECM for the PL421 can be accessed.
Results
- OK - Cat ET lists the electronic control modules that are available on the truck. The ECM for the PL421 can be accessed. Resume the setup procedures for the installation of the PL421. STOP.
- NOT OK – The Cat ET does not list the electronic control modules that are installed on the truck. The PL421 ECM cannot be accessed. Proceed to""Test Step 4"
" .
Test Step 4. RETURN THE WIRING TO THE ORIGINAL CONDITION.
A
Return the Data Link wires to the original condition. Remove any splices that were made and reconnect the wiring harness.
B
Connect Cat ET to the service connector. Verify that all of the appropriate electronic control modules are present. The ECM for the PL421 will not be present.
Expected Result
All of the appropriate electronic control modules are present.
Results
- YES - All of the appropriate electronic control modules are present. The wiring is correct. Return to the installation procedure for the PL421 and reinstall the wiring for the Data Link. Continue with the setup of the PL421. STOP.
- NO - All of the appropriate electronic control modules are not present.
Repair
A problem still exists with the Data Link wiring. This problem does not relate to the installation of the PL421. Troubleshoot the entire Data Link circuit to all available electronic control modules. After the problem is found and corrected, return to the installation procedure for the PL421. Reinstall the wiring for the Data Link. Continue with the setup of the PL421.
STOP.
Reports and Messages Not Available
System Operation Description
There are problems that could be reported with the PL421 system but the problems are not caused by the PL421 system. Check for active diagnostic codes for the PL421. Correct any diagnostic codes before proceeding. Visually inspect the following for damage: module, antenna, and cables. Verify that there are no loose connections.
The PL421 system depends on several communication links in order to transfer data from the truck to the office. The following procedures assume that these communication links are operating properly. The proper communication links are listed below:
- The cellular network for communications is operational in the geographic area of concern. The network is operational when messages can travel to the cell tower and then to Caterpillar.
- The PL421 system is correctly configured to communicate on the network for cellular communications. Correct configuration was verified during manufacturing tests.
- The PL421 is configured properly and the software is functioning. The PL421 module should not be replaced without verifying that these issues have been investigated. Contact your Caterpillar Technical Communicator for aid in resolving these issues.
- Subscriptions to the PL421 module must be up to the current date.
If reports and messages are not available, perform the following steps in order to determine the cause.
Test Step 1. ACCESS THE PL421 THROUGH CATERPILLAR ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN (Cat ET).
A
Connect Cat ET to the truck.
B
Verify that the PL421 is present.
Expected Result
The PL421 is present.
Results
- OK - The PL421 is available. Proceed to ""Test Step 4"
".
- NOT OK - The PL421 is not present in the Cat ET screen.
Repair
Verify that the wiring for the PL421 has been installed correctly. Check the wiring with a multimeter. If the PL421 is not present, refer to ""Electronic Service Tool Does Not Communicate with ECM" ". STOP.
Test Step 2. VERIFY THAT THE PL421 MODULE HAS NOT BEEN DISABLED.
A
Go to the "Cellular Information" screen in Cat ET.
B
Verify that the "Cellular Network Coverage Status" is "In Coverage".
Expected Result
The "Cellular Network Coverage Status" module is "In Coverage", PL421 is reporting.
Results
- OK - The "Cellular Network Coverage Status" for PL421 is "In Coverage". Go to ""Test Step 4"
".
- NOT OK - The "Cellular Network Coverage Status" for PL421 is "Out of Coverage". Go to ""Test Step 4"
".
- NOT OK - The "Cellular Network Coverage Status" for PL421 is "Network Not Allowed".
Test Step 3. VERIFY THAT THE PL421 IS RECEIVING CELLULAR SIGNALS.
A
Go to the "Cellular Information" status screen in Cat ET.
B
Verify that the "Cellular Signal Quality" is greater than 25 percent.
C
Verify that the antenna is correctly installed.
D
Verify that the unit is in cellular map coverage of the provider.
Expected Result
The "Cellular Signal Quality" detected is greater than 25 percent.
Results
- OK - There is cell coverage in the area and the antenna is correctly installed. Proceed to ""Test Step 5"
".
- NOT OK - Either the unit is out of cell coverage or antenna is installed incorrectly. Verify that the unit is in cellular map coverage of the provider. Proceed to ""Test Step 7"
" to check antenna installation.
Test Step 4. VERIFY THAT THE PL421 MODULE IS CONFIGURED PROPERLY.
A
Go to the "APN Configuration" screen.
B
Verify that the "APN Cellular Carrier" is configured to the correct cellular service provider.
C
Verify that the "APN Username" is configured to the correct cellular network. Refer to cellular provider for correct APN info.
D
Verify that the "APN Password" is configured with the correct password for cellular network. Refer to cellular provider for correct APN info.
E
Verify that the "APN SIM PIN" is configured with the correct SIM Card PIN. Refer to SIM Card Provider to determine and program SIM PIN.
Expected Result
All settings are correct.
Results
- OK - The PL421 is configured correctly. Proceed to ""Test Step 5"
".
- NOT OK – The PL421 is not configured correctly.
Repair
Correct the configuration of the PL421. The "APN Configuration" can be verified in the "Cellular Network Coverage Status" within "GSM Information" of Cat ET.
STOP.
Test Step 6. CHECK THE INSTALLATION OF THE ANTENNA.
Observe installation of the antenna for the PL421. Verify that the antenna is installed with a clear view of the sky. The antenna must be in a location that is free from interference. Examples of interference include the following items:
- Devices on the roof of the truck that could potentially be sources of radio frequency interference
- Other antennas that are close to the antenna for the PL421.
- The truck is inside a metal building or another similar structure
- The truck is under large signs that are lighted
- The truck is under power lines
Note: Refer to ""Installation of the Antenna" " for additional details on optimal installation of the antenna.
Expected Result
The antenna is installed on the highest point on the truck. There is a clear view of the sky.
Results
- OK - The antenna for the PL421 is installed properly. Verify that all of the connections for the antenna are tight. Proceed to ""Test Step 8"
".
- NOT OK - The installation of the antenna is not optimal.
Repair
Accept the current performance of the communication or reinstall the antenna at a superior location.
STOP.
Test Step 7. VERIFY THAT THE ANTENNA IS NOT DAMAGED.
A
Visually inspect the antenna.
B
Disconnect the connection of the GPS antenna at the module.
Expected Result
The antenna has no physical damage.
Results
- OK - Replace the antenna with a known good antenna. Verify that communication is reestablished.
- NOT OK - Damage is found.
Repair
Replace the antenna assembly. Verify that the module is operating correctly.
STOP.
Position Reports Not Available
System Operation Description
This section contains steps that can be used to help determine the possible cause of erratic reports of interval. Check for active diagnostic codes for the PL421. Correct any diagnostic codes before proceeding. Visually inspect the following items for damage: PL421 module, antenna and cables. Verify that there are no loose connections.
The PL421 system depends on several communication links in order to transfer data from the truck to the office. The following procedures assume that these communication links are operating properly. The proper communication links are listed below:
- The network for cellular communications is operational in the geographic area of concern. The network is operational when messages can travel to the satellite and the messages can travel to the earth and Caterpillar.
- The PL421 system is correctly configured to communicate on the network for cellular communications. Correct configuration was verified during manufacturing tests.
- VisionLink is configured properly and the software is functioning. The PL421 module should not be replaced without verifying that these issues have been investigated. Contact the Caterpillar Technical Communicator for aid in resolving these issues. The unit is likely to have been configured correctly if the following occurs:
- The SMH report is received.
There is a probability that the system GPS has failed. Proceed with the following steps in order to determine the cause.
Test Step 1. ACCESS THE PL421 THROUGH CATERPILLAR ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN (Cat ET).
A
Connect the Cat ET service tool to the truck.
B
Verify that the PL421is present.
Expected Result
The PL421is present.
Results
- OK - The PL421 is present. Proceed to ""Test Step 3"
".
- NOT OK – The PL421 is not present in the Cat ET screen.
Repair
Verify that the wiring for the PL421 has been installed correctly. Check the wiring with a multimeter. If the PL421 is not present, refer to ""Electronic Service Tool Does Not Communicate with ECM" ".
STOP.
Test Step 2. VERIFY IF THE TRUCK HAS MOVED
A
Verify if the truck has moved since the last known position report.
Expected Result
The truck has not moved.
Results
- OK - The truck has not moved. Therefore, the truck has not sent any position reports. STOP.
- NOT OK - The truck movement is unknown. Proceed to ""Test Step 3"
".
Test Step 3. VERIFY THAT THE GPS RECEIVER FUNCTIONS.
A
Select "GPS Information" for Cat ET.
B
Verify that the "GPS Position Status" is "Valid".
C
Verify that the GPS has calculated a location within the configured amount of time ("GPS Fix Validity Time Duration"). The "GPS Time Stamp" can be compared to the "PC Current Date/Time" in order to calculate the time since the last calculation of the position.
D
Select "Status Parameters". Verify "GPS Receiver" states "Functional".
Expected Result
The "GPS Position Status" is "Valid". The last calculation (GPS) of the position was within the configured amount of time ("GPS Fix Validity Time Duration") .
Results
- OK - The indications on the Cat ET screen are correct. The GPS Receiver is functioning properly. Proceed to ""Test Step 5"
".
- NOT OK - The indications on the "GPS Information" are incorrect. Proceed to ""Test Step 5"
".
- NOT OK - The indications on the "GPS Receiver" are not "Functional". Proceed to ""Test Step 5"
".
Test Step 5. VERIFY THAT THE ANTENNA IS NOT DAMAGED.
A
Visually inspect the antenna.
B
Disconnect the connection of the GPS antenna at the module.
Expected Result
The antenna has no physical damage.
Results
- OK - Replace the antenna with a known good antenna. Verify that communication is reestablished.
- NOT OK - Damage is found.
Repair
Replace the antenna assembly. Verify that the module is operating correctly.
STOP.