AE class is in session!
#23
matt9923 - I have condensed that post to make it easier to read. Great find!!
AutoEnginuity Software Configuration When you first launch the AutoEnginuity software there are some settings that need to be modified. The settings below are what we recommend to get the best results when connecting to Powerstroke Diesel vehicles. Connection to other vehicles may require changes to these settings. All of these settings are located in "Communications Configuration" on the "Vehicle" menu.
For 99-03 7.3L, another way to use AutoEnginuity to see if there are problems with a particular cylinder is to monitor the "Cylinder x Change Rotational Vel" or "Percentage of Crank Deceleration" PID (also commonly called PERDEL). This PID exists for all 8 cylinders and is a representation of crankshaft velocity change (decrease) at the time the cylinder is firing. Ideally, these should all read 0%. Any cylinder consistently reading more than 3-5% change in rotational velocity is suspect and should be further examined. Note: Engine should be fully warmed up before checking PERDEL data.
7.3L Injector "Buzz" Test The Injector "Buzz" Test can be used to look for a faulty fuel injector. It is best to run this test on a totally cold engine, one that has sat overnight and has not been started. Initiate the "Buzz" test and then listen carefully to the injectors as the test is completed. First, all 8 injectors will "Buzz" at the same time. Then, the IDM will "Buzz" the injectors in numerical order (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8). Remember that cylinders 1-3-5-7 are on the passenger side and 2-4-6-8 are on the drivers side, with cylinders 1 & 2 being at the front of the engine. You should hear a strong "Buzz" bouncing from side to side for all 8 injectors. If one of the injectors doesn't "Buzz", you've found a problem cylinder. It is important to note that when an injector fails to "Buzz" properly, you will still hear the other 7 injectors make a faint buzz...this is a designed function to protect the IDM.
Note: Because the IDM will "buzz" the other 7 injectors faintly during individual cylinder tests, it is possible for the "Buzz" test to report no problems detected. If the "Buzz" test reports no failures, but you don't hear a particular cylinder "Buzz"...more than likely there is a problem with that injector.
It should also be noted that an injector failing a "Buzz" test can have many causes. The injector can be in a failed state (loose armature plate screw, bad solenoid, etc.), the UCV (under valve cover) gasket or harness could be damaged or disconnected, the main engine harness could be damaged or the IDM could be damaged. Further inspection will be necessary to determine the actual problem...but at least you now have a place to start.
Quick KOEO Sensor Checks: There are a few sensors that can be easily checked with a scantool. Starting with a "Dead Cold" engine (let it sit overnight, don't start), connect to the truck with the ScanTool. Check the following:
KOER (Key On Engine Running) On-Demand Test: On the 7.3L, the primary purpose of this test is to check the functionalilty of the High Pressure Oil System and the Exhaust Back Pressure Solenoid. On the 6.0L this test may return Misfire, VGT, or Glowplug codes.
7.3L Powerstroke Starting Req.:
Vehicle Power: 10.5v
RPM Signal : 100rpm
Inj. Cntrl Press. (ICP): 0.85v (about 500psi)
Fuel Pulse Width: 1 to 6 milliseconds
6.0L Powerstroke Starting Req.:
Vehicle Power : 10.5v
RPM Signal: 100rpm
Inj. Cntrl Press. (ICP): 0.85v (about 500psi)
Fuel Pulse Width : 0.5 to 2 milliseconds FICM SYNC and SYNC Achieved
*Note: the above starting requirements for both 7.3L and 6.0L Powerstroke Diesels assume the following:
P1316 - "IDM Codes Detected" (7.3L) IDM Codes are stored in memory in the IDM itself. The P1316 DTC is an indication that there are stored IDM Codes that need to be retrieved and/or cleared. Executing a "Clear Codes" will clear both PCM and IDM codes...DO NOT CLEAR CODES until you have retrieved and reviewed the codes stored in the IDM! If you get a P1316 DTC, the following steps will allow you to view the stored codes in the IDM using AutoEnginuity:
P1211 - "ICP Higher/Lower Than Desired" (7.3L) We all know that this code is commonly caused by "Hot Chips" that are demanding more Pressure (ICP) than the High Pressure Oil Pump can deliver. For what it's worth, these are the exact parameters that trigger this code:
The above codes are related to ICP also. If the Service Engine Soon (SES) light is on and these codes are present, the ICP reading through any scantool will not be accurate as the PCM is using a "default" ICP value. These codes are all "electrical" in nature. Common causes are shorts between the Red and White IPR wires or between the Red wire and ground. These can also sometimes indicate a PCM problem.
AutoEnginuity Software Configuration When you first launch the AutoEnginuity software there are some settings that need to be modified. The settings below are what we recommend to get the best results when connecting to Powerstroke Diesel vehicles. Connection to other vehicles may require changes to these settings. All of these settings are located in "Communications Configuration" on the "Vehicle" menu.
- Computer Interface:
- Select "Auto Detect Serial Port" ONLY if you are using a Serial version of the AutoEnginuity tool
- Select "USB or Manually Set Serial Port" for USB versions of the AutoEnginuity tool
- I prefer to turn off "Automatically Connect on Launch" so I can start the software without it trying to connect
- Vehicle Interface (these settings are for the BEST connectivity support for FORD POWERSTROKE TRUCKS ONLY):
- "Vehicle Interface Type" should be "J1850PWM" for a 7.3L and "Auto-Detect" for a 6.0L
- "Initialization Type" should be "Non-OBDII" when connecting to a 7.3L
NOTE: The above settings will need to be changed to "Auto-Detect" and "OBDII Compliant" if connecting to a non-Powerstroke vehicle - "Use Fastmode CAN" and "Use Heartbeat" should not be selected when connecting to a Ford
- The above settings are automatically saved. You won't need to adjust these unless you change them to connect to a different vehicle.
- 94-97 Powerstroke Diesel: 170°F+
- 99-03 Powerstroke Diesel: 135°F+
- Also, make sure that ALL accessories are turned off (A/C, etc.)
For 99-03 7.3L, another way to use AutoEnginuity to see if there are problems with a particular cylinder is to monitor the "Cylinder x Change Rotational Vel" or "Percentage of Crank Deceleration" PID (also commonly called PERDEL). This PID exists for all 8 cylinders and is a representation of crankshaft velocity change (decrease) at the time the cylinder is firing. Ideally, these should all read 0%. Any cylinder consistently reading more than 3-5% change in rotational velocity is suspect and should be further examined. Note: Engine should be fully warmed up before checking PERDEL data.
7.3L Injector "Buzz" Test The Injector "Buzz" Test can be used to look for a faulty fuel injector. It is best to run this test on a totally cold engine, one that has sat overnight and has not been started. Initiate the "Buzz" test and then listen carefully to the injectors as the test is completed. First, all 8 injectors will "Buzz" at the same time. Then, the IDM will "Buzz" the injectors in numerical order (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8). Remember that cylinders 1-3-5-7 are on the passenger side and 2-4-6-8 are on the drivers side, with cylinders 1 & 2 being at the front of the engine. You should hear a strong "Buzz" bouncing from side to side for all 8 injectors. If one of the injectors doesn't "Buzz", you've found a problem cylinder. It is important to note that when an injector fails to "Buzz" properly, you will still hear the other 7 injectors make a faint buzz...this is a designed function to protect the IDM.
Note: Because the IDM will "buzz" the other 7 injectors faintly during individual cylinder tests, it is possible for the "Buzz" test to report no problems detected. If the "Buzz" test reports no failures, but you don't hear a particular cylinder "Buzz"...more than likely there is a problem with that injector.
It should also be noted that an injector failing a "Buzz" test can have many causes. The injector can be in a failed state (loose armature plate screw, bad solenoid, etc.), the UCV (under valve cover) gasket or harness could be damaged or disconnected, the main engine harness could be damaged or the IDM could be damaged. Further inspection will be necessary to determine the actual problem...but at least you now have a place to start.
Quick KOEO Sensor Checks: There are a few sensors that can be easily checked with a scantool. Starting with a "Dead Cold" engine (let it sit overnight, don't start), connect to the truck with the ScanTool. Check the following:
- Oil Temp should closely match the current Ambient Temp.
- Readings for Exhaust Backpressure, Manifold Absolute Pressure and Barometric Pressure should all be within 1/2 psi of each other (this should be true with the engine either warm or cold).
KOER (Key On Engine Running) On-Demand Test: On the 7.3L, the primary purpose of this test is to check the functionalilty of the High Pressure Oil System and the Exhaust Back Pressure Solenoid. On the 6.0L this test may return Misfire, VGT, or Glowplug codes.
7.3L Powerstroke Starting Req.:
Vehicle Power: 10.5v
RPM Signal : 100rpm
Inj. Cntrl Press. (ICP): 0.85v (about 500psi)
Fuel Pulse Width: 1 to 6 milliseconds
6.0L Powerstroke Starting Req.:
Vehicle Power : 10.5v
RPM Signal: 100rpm
Inj. Cntrl Press. (ICP): 0.85v (about 500psi)
Fuel Pulse Width : 0.5 to 2 milliseconds FICM SYNC and SYNC Achieved
*Note: the above starting requirements for both 7.3L and 6.0L Powerstroke Diesels assume the following:
- Sufficient Oil Level and Pressure
- Acceptable Quality Fuel
- Sufficient Fuel Pressure
- Sufficient Air Supply
- Proper Glow Plug Operation
- Proper Injection Timing (PCM Controlled)
P1316 - "IDM Codes Detected" (7.3L) IDM Codes are stored in memory in the IDM itself. The P1316 DTC is an indication that there are stored IDM Codes that need to be retrieved and/or cleared. Executing a "Clear Codes" will clear both PCM and IDM codes...DO NOT CLEAR CODES until you have retrieved and reviewed the codes stored in the IDM! If you get a P1316 DTC, the following steps will allow you to view the stored codes in the IDM using AutoEnginuity:
- Execute a KOEO (Key On Engine Off) Test.
- Execute an Injector "Buzz" Test.
- The displayed results from these tests will include any stored IDM Codes.
P1211 - "ICP Higher/Lower Than Desired" (7.3L) We all know that this code is commonly caused by "Hot Chips" that are demanding more Pressure (ICP) than the High Pressure Oil Pump can deliver. For what it's worth, these are the exact parameters that trigger this code:
- ICP 410psi Higher Than Desired for 7 Seconds
- ICP 280psi Lower Than Desired for 7 Seconds
- Failed or Sticking IPR (Injection Pressure Regulator)
- Failed or Weak HPOP (High Pressure Oil Pump)
- Any Leak in High Pressure Oil System (o-ring, stuck injector, etc.)
- Low Fuel Pressure (Rare)
The above codes are related to ICP also. If the Service Engine Soon (SES) light is on and these codes are present, the ICP reading through any scantool will not be accurate as the PCM is using a "default" ICP value. These codes are all "electrical" in nature. Common causes are shorts between the Red and White IPR wires or between the Red wire and ground. These can also sometimes indicate a PCM problem.
#25
Staying with the basics:
I want to start with a simple reading that is easy to overlook, but can have a profound effect on your fuel economy and performance - the Exhaust Back Pressure sensor, Manifold Air Pressure sensor, and BARO (barometer). These three are akin to a GPS indicating “you are here” for everything that follows, once the truck is started: It does no good to “Turn right here” if the GPS thinks you're someplace you're not. It also does no good if your engine tuning says “Set fuel delivery to X” if the sensors are lying to the PCM.
Before we go on a clicking rampage, you first want to see the screen. Many of you have larger screens than my netbook, but just as many are as crowded as I am. To preview if your screen can handle the whole nine bards (not a typo, just taking creative license), click on the “Live Data Meter” tab. The screen shot below contains some inspiration as to how to make more room on the screen, if needed:
Now I've done it... I gave away one of the secrets - you can monitor up to 9 sensors at a time. There will be a later discussion on the practical number of meters up, but I will be keeping as few meters active as possible. This test calls for just three meters... perfect. Using the screen shot below, you want to select one sensor for each meter, until the meters look like the second screen shot below that.
You can see the values from my truck in my driveway... I live at about 1000 feet. These values are absolute pressure – this means compared to a perfect vacuum, the air pressure at my home is just over 14 PSI. That's zero for a back pressure gauge and the boost gauge, so you can see how relevant this test is. Here is a [LINK] to see what pressure you should see at your altitude.
***Critical edit: Powering your laptop from the cigarette lighter while using the USB-style OBDII interface has the potential to damage the interface and/or your laptop. Contact AutoEnginuity for input before powering your laptop from the vehicle.***
What's my next session? Setting up the system to record these three values while we go for a drive. There's more to it than just pushing the shiny red button, but I always encourage experimentation... it makes for better questions.
I want to start with a simple reading that is easy to overlook, but can have a profound effect on your fuel economy and performance - the Exhaust Back Pressure sensor, Manifold Air Pressure sensor, and BARO (barometer). These three are akin to a GPS indicating “you are here” for everything that follows, once the truck is started: It does no good to “Turn right here” if the GPS thinks you're someplace you're not. It also does no good if your engine tuning says “Set fuel delivery to X” if the sensors are lying to the PCM.
Before we go on a clicking rampage, you first want to see the screen. Many of you have larger screens than my netbook, but just as many are as crowded as I am. To preview if your screen can handle the whole nine bards (not a typo, just taking creative license), click on the “Live Data Meter” tab. The screen shot below contains some inspiration as to how to make more room on the screen, if needed:
Now I've done it... I gave away one of the secrets - you can monitor up to 9 sensors at a time. There will be a later discussion on the practical number of meters up, but I will be keeping as few meters active as possible. This test calls for just three meters... perfect. Using the screen shot below, you want to select one sensor for each meter, until the meters look like the second screen shot below that.
You can see the values from my truck in my driveway... I live at about 1000 feet. These values are absolute pressure – this means compared to a perfect vacuum, the air pressure at my home is just over 14 PSI. That's zero for a back pressure gauge and the boost gauge, so you can see how relevant this test is. Here is a [LINK] to see what pressure you should see at your altitude.
***Critical edit: Powering your laptop from the cigarette lighter while using the USB-style OBDII interface has the potential to damage the interface and/or your laptop. Contact AutoEnginuity for input before powering your laptop from the vehicle.***
What's my next session? Setting up the system to record these three values while we go for a drive. There's more to it than just pushing the shiny red button, but I always encourage experimentation... it makes for better questions.
#26
#29