PCM Controlled Generator Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Use the following diagnostic table to diagnose the generator F and L circuit.

Use the following scan tool parameters when diagnosing the PCM controlled generator

Generator PWM - Range 0-100%: The generator F terminal is a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) duty cycle or load input to the PCM from the generator. As the generator load increases, the PCM can sense the change and adjust the idle speed accordingly.

Generator L Terminal - Range Inactive/Active: The generator L terminal indicates whether the PCM is allowing the generator to operate. The PCM can disable the generator under certain conditions in order to ease starting. Active indicates that the PCM is allowing generator operation, while inactive indicates that the PCM is not allowing generator operation.

Circuit Description

The generator communicates to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over two lines, the L or Lamp circuit and the F or Field circuit. The PCM uses the L circuit to monitor faults in the charging system. The F circuit is used by the PCM to monitor the duty cycle or load of the generator The PCM will adjust the idle speed according to the generator load.

Diagnostic Aids

^ A Body Function Controller (BFC) DTC may set when a generator malfunction is present. Check for any BFC DTCs and make any necessary repairs.
^ When the engine is not running, the generator duty cycle will be displayed above 5%. If the generator duty cycle reads 0%, then the field circuit is either open or shorted to ground.
^ An Intermittent problem may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation, or a wire that is broken inside the insulation.
^ Any circuitry, that is suspected as causing the intermittent complaint, should be thoroughly checked for the following items:

- Improper mating
- Broken locks
- Poor terminal to wiring connections
- Physical damage to the wiring harness

Test Description

Number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.

1. The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the freeze frame and failure records data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the fault occurred. The information is then stored on the scan tool for later reference.
3. If the volts telltale lamp is not operating, the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) or the BFC is malfunctioning.
6. If no malfunction have been found at this point, refer to Diagnostic Aids for additional checks and information.