11-01-2024, 06:29 AM
If you own a Caterpillar machine and need to clear the Engine Control Module (ECM) memory, you can do so using Cat ET 2023C and the Cat 478-0235 Adapter 3. Follow this step-by-step guide for a successful process.
Preparation
1. Software Requirements:
- Ensure you have Cat ET 2023A, 2022A, 2019C, or 2018A installed on your laptop.
- Download the necessary software if not already installed.
2. Hardware Requirements:
- Obtain the caterpillar et adapter 3 (478-0235).
3. Check ECM Compatibility:
- Confirm that your ECM is compatible. Supported models include:
- A4E2V1: Base Codes JZ, LA, LC
- A4E4V2: Base Codes JV, JW, JX, JY, LS, JL, JM
- A4E4V3: Base Codes LF, LG, LH, LJ, LK, LL, LM, MC, MD, ME, MF, RA, RB, RC, RD, RE
- Ensure the ECM outer suffix code matches the suffix code in your list (last 2 digits of the ECM serial number).
4. Data Link Compatibility:
- The ECM clearing operation must be performed over a J1939 data link; it will not work over a CDL data link.
- Verify that the breakout harness used aligns with the appropriate circuit diagram.
Steps to Clear the ECM
1. Update the ECM List:
- Open Cat ET and go to Winflash.
- Before clearing the ECM, record the engine serial number and the previously loaded flash file for troubleshooting purposes.
- Click on the Utilities menu and select Clear ECM Memory to update the ECM list with supported ECMs for deletion.
2. Check ECM Compatibility:
- After updating, a dialog box will inform you about operations not allowed with factory-installed ECMs.
- Click Yes to verify if the ECM was factory-installed or No to continue with the ECM wipe process.
3. Flash the ECM Erase File:
- Navigate to and load the correct ECM erase file, which can be retrieved from the SIS and saved to your disk.
- Click the magnifying glass next to the ECM in Winflash to automatically launch SIS and find the correct flash file.
- Once the file is loaded, click the Start Flash button. Important: Do not interrupt power during the erase process, as this can damage the ECM.
4. Continue with the Process:
- Follow on-screen instructions and click the Clear Storage button.
- Use only the Clear Storage option, as the Clear ECM Memory menu option will redirect you back.
5. Confirm and Enter Password:
- Click Yes to confirm and continue.
- Enter the factory password to proceed. Follow the standard method to retrieve this password.
6. Finalize ECM Clearing:
- Once the password is entered, click OK. You will see a message confirming that Cat ET will be disconnected.
- At this point, the software has been deleted from the ECM, and default interlock 43690 has been programmed. The ECM can now be used for another replacement or returned to dealer inventory.
Note: Before returning the ECM to storage, it's highly recommended to affix a sticker or other designation to indicate that it is a released ECM and not a brand-new unit.
Preparation
1. Software Requirements:
- Ensure you have Cat ET 2023A, 2022A, 2019C, or 2018A installed on your laptop.
- Download the necessary software if not already installed.
2. Hardware Requirements:
- Obtain the caterpillar et adapter 3 (478-0235).
3. Check ECM Compatibility:
- Confirm that your ECM is compatible. Supported models include:
- A4E2V1: Base Codes JZ, LA, LC
- A4E4V2: Base Codes JV, JW, JX, JY, LS, JL, JM
- A4E4V3: Base Codes LF, LG, LH, LJ, LK, LL, LM, MC, MD, ME, MF, RA, RB, RC, RD, RE
- Ensure the ECM outer suffix code matches the suffix code in your list (last 2 digits of the ECM serial number).
4. Data Link Compatibility:
- The ECM clearing operation must be performed over a J1939 data link; it will not work over a CDL data link.
- Verify that the breakout harness used aligns with the appropriate circuit diagram.
Steps to Clear the ECM
1. Update the ECM List:
- Open Cat ET and go to Winflash.
- Before clearing the ECM, record the engine serial number and the previously loaded flash file for troubleshooting purposes.
- Click on the Utilities menu and select Clear ECM Memory to update the ECM list with supported ECMs for deletion.
2. Check ECM Compatibility:
- After updating, a dialog box will inform you about operations not allowed with factory-installed ECMs.
- Click Yes to verify if the ECM was factory-installed or No to continue with the ECM wipe process.
3. Flash the ECM Erase File:
- Navigate to and load the correct ECM erase file, which can be retrieved from the SIS and saved to your disk.
- Click the magnifying glass next to the ECM in Winflash to automatically launch SIS and find the correct flash file.
- Once the file is loaded, click the Start Flash button. Important: Do not interrupt power during the erase process, as this can damage the ECM.
4. Continue with the Process:
- Follow on-screen instructions and click the Clear Storage button.
- Use only the Clear Storage option, as the Clear ECM Memory menu option will redirect you back.
5. Confirm and Enter Password:
- Click Yes to confirm and continue.
- Enter the factory password to proceed. Follow the standard method to retrieve this password.
6. Finalize ECM Clearing:
- Once the password is entered, click OK. You will see a message confirming that Cat ET will be disconnected.
- At this point, the software has been deleted from the ECM, and default interlock 43690 has been programmed. The ECM can now be used for another replacement or returned to dealer inventory.
Note: Before returning the ECM to storage, it's highly recommended to affix a sticker or other designation to indicate that it is a released ECM and not a brand-new unit.