Injector solenoid test: system operation description:

Use this procedure to troubleshoot the electrical system if a problem is suspected with the injectors or if any one of the diagnostic codes in Table 1 is active or easily repeated.

Table 1
Diagnostic Codes Table    
Code     Conditions which Generate this Code     System Response    
1-5 Cylinder #1 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's Electronic Control Module (ECM) detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
1-6 Cylinder #1 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    
2-5 Cylinder #2 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's ECM detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
2-6 Cylinder #2 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    
3-5 Cylinder #3 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's ECM detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
3-6 Cylinder #3 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    
4-5 Cylinder #4 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's ECM detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
4-6 Cylinder #4 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    
5-5 Cylinder #5 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's ECM detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
5-6 Cylinder #5 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    
6-5 Cylinder #6 Injector : Current Below Normal     The engine's ECM detects an open circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM continues to fire the injector solenoid.    
6-6 Cylinder #6 Injector : Current Above Normal     The ECM detects a short circuit.     The code is logged.
The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.    

Perform this procedure under conditions that are identical to the conditions that exist when the problem occurs. Typically, problems with the injector solenoid occur when the engine is warmed up and/or when the engine is under vibration (heavy loads).

These engines have Electronic Unit Injectors (EUI) that are mechanically actuated and electronically controlled. The ECM sends a 105 volt pulse to each injector solenoid. The pulse is sent at the proper time and at the correct duration for a given engine load and speed. The solenoid is mounted on top of the fuel injector body.

If an open is detected in the solenoid circuit, a diagnostic code is generated. The ECM continues to try to fire the injector. If a short is detected, a diagnostic code is generated. The ECM will disable the solenoid circuit. The ECM will periodically try to fire the injector. If the short circuit remains, this sequence of events will be repeated until the problem is corrected.

Note: Refer to Illustration 2. Two injector solenoids share a supply wire. For this reason, an open circuit or a short circuit in a supply wire or a connector could cause diagnostic codes for two injector solenoids. Note that a diagnostic code for a single injector indicates that the problem is most likely in the return wire or a connector in the return circuit.

Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET) includes the following tests that aid in troubleshooting the injector solenoids:

"Cylinder Cutout Test"

The "Cylinder Cutout Test" is used on an engine in order to determine the individual cylinder performance while the engine is running. As one or more cylinders are cut out during the test, the "Cylinder Cutout Test" uses the "Fuel Position" of each injector in order to evaluate the performance of the remaining cylinders that are firing. As the different cylinders are cut out, a comparison of the change in "Fuel Position" is used to identify cylinders that are weak or misfiring. One reason for a cylinder that is weak or misfiring is an injector that is malfunctioning mechanically.

During the test, when a good injector is cut out, the "Fuel Position" of the remaining injectors will show a consistent change. This consistent change in the "Fuel Position" is caused by the remaining injectors that are compensating for the cut out injector. If a malfunctioning injector is cut out, the "Fuel Position" will not show a proportional change. This unbalanced change is the result of the smaller quantity of fuel that is needed to compensate for the power loss from the malfunctioning injector. The "Cylinder Cutout Test" is used to isolate a malfunctioning injector in order to avoid replacement of injectors that are in good repair.

Note: Prior to running the "Cylinder Cutout Test", all active diagnostic codes must be repaired.

"Injector Solenoid Test"

Use the "Injector Solenoid Test" to diagnose an open circuit or a short circuit in the wiring for the injector solenoids. While the engine is off, the "Injector Solenoid Test" briefly activates each injector solenoid. A good solenoid will create an audible click when the solenoid is activated. After performing the test, Cat ET will indicate the status of the solenoid as "OK", "Open", or "Short".





Illustration 1 g01147070

Electronic unit injector





Illustration 2 g01409174

Typical schematic for the injector solenoids

Test Step 1. Inspect the Electrical Connectors and the Wiring

    ------ WARNING! ------

    Electrical shock hazard. The electronic unit injector system uses 90-120 volts.

    ----------------------

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.




    Illustration 3 g01139425

    ECM

    (1) J1/P1 connectors

    (2) J2/P2 connectors

  1. Thoroughly inspect the wire connections at the ECM connector J2/P2 and at the valve cover connector. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Electrical Connectors - Inspect" for details.




    Illustration 4 g01409175

    Terminal locations at the P2 ECM connector

    (P2-5) Injector 1 & 2 return

    (P2-6) Injector 1 supply

    (P2-12) Injector 2 supply

    (P2-17) Injector 3 & 4 return

    (P2-18) Injector 3 supply

    (P2-22) Injector 4 supply

    (P2-27) Injector 5 & 6 return

    (P2-28) Injector 5 supply

    (P2-34) Injector 6 supply





    Illustration 5 g01409176

    Terminal locations at the valve cover connector

    (Terminal 1) Injector 1 supply

    (Terminal 2) Injector 2 supply

    (Terminal 3) Injector 3 supply

    (Terminal 4) Injector 4 supply

    (Terminal 5) Injector 5 supply

    (Terminal 6) Injector 6 supply

    (Terminal 8) Injector 5 & 6 return

    (Terminal 10) Injector 3 & 4 return

    (Terminal 12) Injector 1 & 2 return

  1. Perform a 45 N (10 lb) pull test on each of the wires in the ECM connector and each of the wires that are associated with injector solenoids.

  1. Check the allen head screw on each ECM connector for the proper torque. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Electrical Connectors - Inspect" for the correct torque values.

  1. Check the harness and wiring for abrasions and for pinch points from the injectors to the ECM.

Expected Result:

All connectors, pins, and sockets are completely coupled and/or inserted. The harness and wiring are free of corrosion, of abrasion, and of pinch points.

Results:

Test Step 2. Check for Logged Diagnostic Codes for the Injector Solenoids

  1. Connect Cat ET to the data link connector. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Electronic Service Tools".

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Check for logged diagnostic codes for the injector solenoids on Cat ET.

Expected Result:

There are no logged diagnostic codes for the injector solenoids.

Results:

Test Step 3. Perform the "Cylinder Cutout Test"

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Start the engine.

  1. Allow the engine to warm up to normal operating temperature (approximately 77 °C (171 °F)).

  1. After the engine is warmed to operating temperature, access the "Cylinder Cutout Test" by accessing the following display screens in order:

    • "Diagnostics"

    • "Diagnostic Tests"

    • "Cylinder Cutout Test"

  1. Shut off all parasitic loads such as the air conditioning and the air compressors which could affect the results of the test.

  1. Select the start button at the bottom of the screen for the cylinder cutout test on Cat ET.

  1. Follow the instructions that are provided in the cylinder cutout test. The cylinder cutout tests are interactive so the procedure is guided to the finish. The cylinder cutout test will set the correct engine speed for the application.

Expected Result:

The variation of the fuel rate for all cylinders is within specifications.

Results:

Test Step 4. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test"

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position. Leave the keyswitch in the OFF position for a period of fifteen seconds.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Start the engine.

  1. Allow the engine to warm up to normal operating temperature (approximately 77 °C (171 °F)).

  1. Stop the engine.

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Access the "Injector Solenoid Test" by accessing the following display screens in order:

    • "Diagnostics"

    • "Diagnostic Tests"

    • "Injector Solenoid Test"

  1. Activate the "Injector Solenoid Test".

  1. As each solenoid is energized by the ECM an audible click can be heard at the valve cover. Ensure the activation of each solenoid by comparing the location of the click with the progress that is displayed on Cat ET.

  1. Perform the injector solenoid test at least two times.

Expected Result:

All cylinders indicate "OK" on Cat ET.

Results:

Test Step 5. Check the Harness between the ECM and the Valve Cover Base for an Open Circuit

    ------ WARNING! ------

    Electrical shock hazard. The electronic unit injector system uses 90-120 volts.

    ----------------------

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Disconnect the valve cover connector for the injector harness at the valve cover base.

  1. Fabricate a jumper wire that will be long enough to short circuit the different terminals on the valve cover connector. Crimp connector pins on both ends of the jumper wire.




    Illustration 6 g01409177

    Terminal locations at the valve cover connector

    (Terminal 1) Injector 1 supply

    (Terminal 2) Injector 2 supply

    (Terminal 3) Injector 3 supply

    (Terminal 4) Injector 4 supply

    (Terminal 5) Injector 5 supply

    (Terminal 6) Injector 6 supply

    (Terminal 8) Injector 5 & 6 return

    (Terminal 10) Injector 3 & 4 return

    (Terminal 12) Injector 1 & 2 return

  1. Insert one end of the jumper wire into the connector socket for the suspect injector's supply wire. Insert the other end of the jumper wire into the connector socket for the suspect injector's return wire. This will replace the injector solenoid with a short circuit.

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

  1. Repeat this test for each suspect circuit. Stop the "Injector Solenoid Test" before handling the jumper wire. Restore the wiring to the original configuration.

Expected Result:

Cat ET displays "Short" for each of the circuits that were jumpered.

Results:

Test Step 6. Check the Harness between the ECM and the Valve Cover Base for a Short Circuit

    ------ WARNING! ------

    Electrical shock hazard. The electronic unit injector system uses 90-120 volts.

    ----------------------

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Disconnect the valve cover connector for the injector harness.

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

Expected Result:

All of the cylinders indicate "Open" on Cat ET.

Results:

Test Step 7. Check the Injector Harness Under the Valve Cover for an Open Circuit or for a Short Circuit

    ------ WARNING! ------

    Electrical shock hazard. The electronic unit injector system uses 90-120 volts.

    ----------------------

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Remove the valve cover in order to gain access to the suspect injector.

  1. Disconnect the harness connector from the suspect injector.




    Illustration 7 g01147088

    Connector terminals for the injector solenoid

  1. Thoroughly clean the terminals on the injector solenoid and on the harness connector.

  1. Use a jumper wire to short circuit the connector terminals on the harness connector for the suspect injector. This will effectively replace the injector solenoid with a short circuit.

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

    Note: The injector solenoid that shares the supply wire of the injector that is short circuited may indicate a false test result. Disregard this test result.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Remove the jumper wire from the harness connector for the suspect injector. This will effectively replace the injector solenoid with an open circuit.

  1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

  1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

Expected Result:

Cat ET displays "Short" for the cylinder with the jumper wire that is inserted into the harness connector. Cat ET displays "Open" when the jumper wire is removed from the harness connector.

Results:

Test Step 8. Check the ECM for Proper Operation

    ------ WARNING! ------

    Electrical shock hazard. The electronic unit injector system uses 90-120 volts.

    ----------------------

  1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

  1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Fabricate a jumper that is long enough to reach from the P2 ECM connector to the engine ground stud. Crimp a socket terminal to one end of the jumper wire.

  1. Disconnect the P2 connector.

  1. Remove the supply wire for the suspect injector from the ECM connector. Install the jumper wire into the socket.

  1. Connect the J2/P2 ECM connector.

  1. Verify that the ECM will detect an open circuit for the suspect injector:

    1. Ensure that the jumper wire is not in contact with a ground source or another circuit. Do not touch the jumper wire during the test. A strong electrical shock hazard is present at the jumper wire while the test is running.

    1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

    1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

    1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

      Cat ET displays "Open" for the two injectors that share the supply wire.

    1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

    1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

  1. Verify that the ECM detects a short circuit for the suspect injector:

    1. Connect the jumper wire to the engine ground stud. Do not touch the jumper wire during the test. A strong electrical shock hazard is present at the jumper wire while the test is running.

    1. Restore electrical power to the engine ECM.

    1. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.

    1. Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" at least two times.

      Cat ET displays "Short" for the two injectors that share the supply wire.

    1. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position.

    1. Remove electrical power from the engine ECM.

Expected Result:

Cat ET displays the correct status for each test circuit.

Results: