precision electronic solutions CODE SCANNER¨ FAVOR DE LEER INSTRUCTCTIVO ANTES DE USAR EL ARTICULO AUDIO ON TO TES U T TPU Domestic Ford, Lincoln, Mercury with EEC-IV or MCU Engine Computer Control Systems S ELF Car Computer Code Reader TEST STO Lector de Códigos de Computadoras de Automóvil TM OFF HOLD Domestic Ford, CP9015 Lincoln & Mercury Ford, Lincoln, Mercury nacionales de EE.UU.
CP9015 ™ CONTENTS Congratulations on purchasing your Actron Code Scanner for accessing engine trouble-codes required for repairing vehicles equipped with computers. Your Actron Code Scanner is made by Actron, the largest and most trusted name in automotive diagnostic equipment for the home mechanic. You can have confidence this product maintains the highest quality in manufacturing, and will provide you years of reliable service. 1 About Codes: Where do they come from and what are they for? ..
General Safety Guidelines to follow when working on vehicles • Always wear approved eye protection. • Always operate the vehicle in a well ventilated area. Do not inhale exhaust gases – they are very poisonous! • Always keep yourself, tools and test equipment away from all moving or hot engine parts. • Always make sure the vehicle is in park (Automatic transmission) or neutral (manual transmission) and that the parking brake is firmly set. Block the drive wheels.
About Codes Where do they come from and what are they for? Engine computers can find problems. other publishers or your local public library. (See manual listing on page 4.) The computer system in today’s vehicles does more than control engine operation – it can help you find problems, too! Special testing abilities are permanently programmed into the computer by factory engineers.
trouble codes are and where they come from, you are well on your way to fixing today’s computer controlled vehicles! Trouble codes give you valuable knowledge – whether you go for professional vehicle servicing or “do-ityourself. ” Now that you know what Vehicle Service Information The following is a list of publishers who have manuals containing trouble code repair procedures and related information. Some manuals may be available at auto parts stores or your local public library.
Scanner Basics When Do You Use it and What Does it Do? When to Use the Code Scanner 2 AUDIO ON • When the “Check Engine” light comes on (if used on vehicle). T TES OU UT TP • When you experience a driveability problem with your vehicle. SELF Use the Code Scanner: ST0 ® 3 • For a routine system check – even on vehicles with a “Check Engine” light.
Code Scanner Power Checking the Battery A 9 volt transistor radio battery (NEDA 1604) is required to power the Code Scanner. Either a regular or alkaline battery may be used. The Code Scanner has an automatic battery shutoff when not in use. There is no “power off” switch because the unit uses no power when the light is off and the tone is quiet. The battery must be installed before use. Do the following: ON T TES OU UT TP AUDIO SELF 1) Put the Hold/Test switch in TEST position.
Connector Location Where the Self-Test connector can be found. Connector Types Connector locations The Code Scanner plugs into the vehicle “Self-Test” connector which is located in the engine compartment. You can tell which computer system is in your vehicle by noting which connector type is installed! • The EEC-IV computer system (most 1984 & up vehicles) uses TWO test connectors. The connectors are located in one of six general areas. – A large six sided connector.
EEC-IV System Using the Code Scanner (EEC-IV Systems). Complete Description for Reading and Using Service Codes. Do This First Self-Test Summary This section shows you how to use the Code Scanner for: The Self-Test procedure (also called “Quick Test”) involves engine off and engine running tests. The entire procedure is summarized in the chart. Each part is fully explained on the following pages. • Running tests of the engine computer system. (Engine off, ignition timing and engine running tests.
Self-Test Part 1: Test Preparation • Inspect wiring for: 1) Safety First! – Contact with sharp edges. (This happens often.) • Set the parking brake. • Put shift lever in PARK (automatic transmission) or NEUTRAL (manual transmission). – Contact with hot surfaces, such as exhaust manifolds. • Block the drive wheels. • Make sure ignition key is in OFF position. – Pinched, burned or chafed insulation. – Proper routing and connections. 2) Perform Visual Inspection.
6) Have a Pencil and Paper Ready. • Turn ignition key to OFF position. WARNING: Always operate vehicle in a well ventilated area. Do NOT inhale exhaust gases – they are very poisonous! • This is for writing down all the codes. 4) Check Code Scanner Battery. 7) Go to SELF-TEST PART 2: Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Self-Test. • Refer to Section 2. • Do Self-Test Part 2 even if engine will not start, stalls or runs rough. The service codes you get may pinpoint the problem.
Self-Test Part 2: Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Self-Test. IMPORTANT: You must complete all steps in Self-Test Part 1 before proceeding to Part 2. electrically operated fans.) Verify good battery in Code Scanner (Section 2). 1) Verify Ignition Key is in OFF Position. ON NOTE: If the light does not flash, go back and repeat SELF-TEST PART 2 starting with Step 1. If the light still does not flash, you have a problem which must be repaired before proceeding.
• Code sequence example with KOEO codes = 21 and 32, Continuous Memory code =14: single flash (called a “separator code”) • The first code group has KOEO (Key On Engine Off) codes – for problems which are present now. Some service manuals call these “hard” or “on demand” codes. ❊❊ PAUSE ❊ FLASH FLASH (pause) FLASH (longer pause). – The KOEO group will always contain at least one code. This will be a “system pass” code (11 or 111) if no problems were seen.
• Write down codes in the order they are sent. 6) Turn Ignition Key to OFF Position. At this point you can either: • Have your vehicle professionally serviced. Codes indicate problems found by the computer. or, • Repair the vehicle yourself using service codes to help pinpoint the problem. Refer to Test Results Chart. Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Test Results KOEO CODES SEPARATOR CODES CONTINUOUS MEMORY CODES ACTION TO TAKE: 11 (or 111) 1 11 (or 111) System pass.
Self-Test Part 3: Check Engine Timing. HVAC/ CRUISE STER GAP EM BRAKE BOOSTER FUEL PRESS REG EGR VAC REG . .. TO TRANS MODE FRONT OF CAR 9RAC2LAB (NOTE: 7.3L Diesel This Part does not apply. Go to Part 4.) manual for troubleshooting charts related to the symptom. AUDIO 4) Put Code Scanner HOLD/TEST CP9015 – Ford, Lincoln & Mercury Switch in Domestic 1981& Newer TEST Position.
For 1992 & Newer Vehicles: 4) Start the Engine. (See page 14 for 1991 & older vehicles.) • Only use the ignition key to start engine – do not use a remote starter. 1) Turn Ignition Key OFF. • Wait 10 seconds before proceeding. • If engine will not start, stalls or runs rough, refer to vehicle service manual for troubleshooting charts related to the symptom. 2) Turn off Electrical Loads. • This includes radio, headlights, blower fans, air conditioner, and the like. 5) Check Engine Timing.
Self-Test Part 4: Key On Engine Running (KOER) Self-Test. IMPORTANT: You must complete all steps in Self-Test Parts 1,2 and 3 before proceeding to Part 4. Verify good battery in Code Scanner (Section 2). 1) Verify Ignition Key is in OFF Position. 7) Get Engine Identification (ID) Code from the Flashing STO Light. NOTE: If the light does not flash, go back and repeat SELF-TEST PART 4 starting with Step 5. If the light still does not flash, you have a problem which must be repaired before proceeding.
• Perform a brief Wide-Open-Throttle (WOT) action right after the Dynamic Response signal. (Completely press and release throttle.) Running) codes are sent as a group. — The KOER group will always contain at least one code. This will be a “system pass” code (11 or 111) if no problems are seen. — The KOER code group is sent twice (so you can double check your code list). • Some vehicles do not use this signal – no throttle action is necessary.
Key On Engine Running (KOER) Test Results DYNAMIC RESPONSE CODE ENGINE RUNNING CODE 2,3,4 or 5 1 11 No problems found by computer during KOER Self(or 111) Test, however… •If Continuous Memory codes were obtained in Self-Test Part 2, go to SELF-TEST PART 5: Evaluate “Continuous Memory” codes. •If Continuous Memory codes were NOT obtained in Self-Test Part 2, BUT other vehicle symptoms are still present, refer to Diagnosis by Symptom Troubleshooting Charts in vehicle service manual.
Self-Test Part 5: Evaluate/Erase Continuous Memory Codes. 4) If any codes remain, refer to vehicle service manual for Continuous Memory code troubleshooting charts and repair procedures. Do this Part if “Continuous Memory” codes (other than an 11 or 111 pass code) were received during SELF-TEST PART 2: Key On Engine Off (KOEO) and, all other Parts of the Self-Test procedure have been completed. 5) Erase Continuous Memory codes after all repairs have been made.
CODE MEANINGS Code Definitions for FORD Engines with EEC-IV Computer System (Electronic Engine Control system, version IV) Code definitions are listed in this section • If more than one definition is listed, consult your vehicle service manual to get the specific meaning for your vehicle. • Code meanings can vary with vehicle, model year, engine type, options and type of test being performed. • Many of the codes listed may not apply to your vehicle.
21 Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor signal voltage: out of range (Key On Engine Off SelfTest), not at normal operating temperature (Engine Run Self-Test) or loss of signal (during normal engine operation). or, Electronic Distributorless Ignition System (EDIS) fault – problems with Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) circuit. 22 Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor or Barometric Pressure (BP) sensor – signal voltage out of specification (engine off) or not at normal vacuum levels (engine running).
Vane AIr Flow (VAF) sensor – voltage signal is too low. or, Transaxle problem – 4x4L switch is closed. Electronic 4-Speed Overdrive Automatic Transaxle (E4OD): Transmission Oil Temperature (TOT) sensor – signal voltage is too high. Vane Air Flow (VAF) sensor – voltage signal too high. or, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) problems: Coil 3 circuit failure, or, Loss of left side TACH signal. or, Exhaust Gas Oxygen (EGO) sensor – signal voltage indicates opposite from fuel.
72 Insufficient manifold vacuum change detected during Dynamic Response portion of Engine Run SelfTest. or, Problem with Message Center Control Assembly (MCCA) – failure in Data Communications Link (DCL). or, Power interrupt detected. 73 Insufficient throttle position change detected during Dynamic Response portion of Engine Run Self-Test. 74 Brake ON/OFF (BOO) switch action not detected during Dynamic Response portion of Engine Run Self-Test. 75 Brake ON/OFF (BOO) switch always closed circuit.
97 Three Digit Codes 98 Certain 1991 and newer vehicles use 3 digit codes to report the results of the system Self-Test procedure. Refer to your vehicle service manual to determine if your system uses 2 or 3 digit codes. Right side Exhaust Gas Oxygen (EGO) sensor – signal voltage indicates “rich” during “lean” air/fuel conditions. or, Overdrive Cancel Indicator Light (OCIL) – circuit failure.
136 Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor – voltage signal not switching during Engine Run SelfTest. Indicates “lean” (Bank #2). 137 Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor – voltage signal not switching during Engine Run SelfTest. Indicates “rich” (Bank #2). 138 Cold Start Injector (CSI) – insufficient flow during Engine Run Self-Test. 139 Exhaust Gas Oxygen (EGO) sensor – no switching detected (Bank #2). 141 Fuel system indicates “lean” with high flow demand.
216 Ignition system (distributorless) problem – Coil #2 primary side circuit failure. 217 Ignition system (distributorless) problem – Coil #3 primary side circuit failure. 218 Ignition system (distributorless) problem – Loss of left side Ignition Diagnostic Monitor (IDM) signal. 219 238 Ignition system (distributorless) problem – Coil #4 primary side circuit failure. 239 Electronic Distributorless Ignition System (EDIS) problem – Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) signal received with engine off.
339 Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor – signal voltage higher than expected. 341 Octane Adjust service pin in use. 381 Air Conditioner (A/C) clutch is cycling frequently. 411 Cannot control RPM during Engine Run Self-Test – low RPM check. 412 Cannot control RPM during Engine Run Self-Test – high RPM check. 413 Idle Speed Control actuator – operating at minimum limit. 414 Idle Speed Control actuator – operating at maximum limit.
574 High Speed Electro-Drive Fan (HEDF) – operation not detected during Key On Engine Off Self-Test. 578 Variable Control Relay Module (VCRM) – Air Conditioner Pressure sensor circuit shorted. 579 Variable Control Relay Module (VCRM) – insufficient Air Conditioner Pressure change. 581 Variable Control Relay Module (VCRM) – excessive current flow in fan circuit. 582 Variable Control Relay Module (VCRM) – open circuit failure in fan circuit.
667 Manual Lever Position (MLP) sensor – signal voltage too low. 668 Manual Lever Position (MLP) sensor – signal voltage too high. 675 Manual Lever Position (MLP) sensor – signal voltage out of range. 676 Transmission problem – mechanical failure in first gear and reverse. 677 Transmission problem – mechanical failure in first gear and second gear. 678 Transmission problem – third gear to second gear downshift error. 679 Transmission problem – second gear to first gear downshift error.
OTHER FEATURES Additional Code Scanner Diagnostic Features. Part 1: Relay and Solenoid Test Service manuals call this the “Output State Check.” You can turn on most of the computer controlled relays and solenoids except the fuel pump relay and fuel injectors. This is helpful for checking voltages, relay operation, etc. The “output state check” is automatically activated at the end of the normal Key On Engine Off Self-Test procedure (explained in Section 4).
• Throttle action may repeated as often as desired to turn the actuators on and off. NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with Integrated Vehicle Speed Control (IVSC), disconnect vacuum supply hose from the Speed Control Servo (to release stored vacuum). Otherwise, the Speed Control Solenoids will energize the first time the throttle is depressed causing the servo to hold the throttle wide open! Reconnect the vacuum hose after testing.
Part 2: Cylinder Balance Test 7) Start the Engine This test is only used on vehicles with Sequential electronic Fuel Injection (SFI) engines. (Where the injectors are fired individually in the same sequence as the spark plug firing sequence.) The test turns each injector on and off and checks for an RPM decrease. Codes indicate cylinders which are weak or not contributing due to problems such as damaged injectors, spark plugs and wiring.
can tell you how weak a bad cylinder is. (The computer alters inspection during retest.) Test results will be different for a good, weak or “dead” cylinder. See charts below using cylinder #7 as an example. 12) Optional Retest - 1987 & Newer • Lightly press and release throttle within 2 minutes after the last code is sent. This will repeat the entire cylinder balance test.
Part 3: Wiggle Test (Sometimes called Continuous Monitor test.) • This test can help locate intermittent faults in SOME circuits (see chart on page 36). 8) Depending upon Vehicle Model Year.... • 1986 & Older: “Wiggle Test” is now activated! Go to Step 9. • When Wiggle test is activated, the Code Scanner STO light and Audio tone will turn on if a problem is detected. • 1987 & Newer: —Without pausing, move HOLD/ TEST switch to TEST then to HOLD and then back to TEST.
Circuits Checked by Continuous Monitor ACT .............. 1984 & up BP ................ 1984 & up ECT ............. 1984 & up EGO ............. 1990 & up EVP ............. 1984 & up IDM .............. 1990 & up (DIS or dual plug DIS only) ITS ............... 1990 & up MAF ............. 1990 & up MAP ............. 1984 & up PFE .............. 1986 & up TP ............... 1984 & up VAF .............. 1985 & up VAT ..............
MCU SYSTEM Using the Code Scanner (MCU Systems) Complete Description for Reading and Using Service Codes Self-Test Summary Do This First Part 1: Test Preparation. This section shows you how to use the Code Scanner for: • Safety First! Follow all safety rules. • Running tests of the engine computer system. • Perform Visual Inspection. This often reveals the problem. • Reading service codes to pinpoint problem causes. • Prepare Vehicle. Check choke voltage and warm-up engine.
not wipe off! Obtain extra grease, if needed, from your vehicle dealer. It is a special type for this purpose. Repair any problems found during the visual inspection and retest the vehicle. If the original symptom is still present, continue the test. Go to Step 3, “Prepare Vehicle.” recently? Sometimes things get reconnected in the wrong place, or not at all. • Don’t take shortcuts.
V-6 and V-8 engines. 4) Plug the Code Scanner into the Vehicle Self-Test Connector. • Refer to Section 3, “Connector Location”. (The Self-Test connector is near the MCU computer module.) Not used in MCU systems TE ST Remove PCV valve from breather cap on valve cover. Be sure to replace PCV valve after testing and servicing is completed! LF TES SE or AU ON DIO TM d, 19 Linc 81 ol & n& Ne M HOL D we er r cu r y UT UTP TO • Connect the Code Scanner to the 6sided test connector only.
4.2L and 5.8L engines with a vacuum delay valve. There is a tee with a restrictor in the Thermactor Vacuum control line. The restrictor must be uncapped during the test. Replace the cap after testing. Refer to drawing for location of restrictor on the TAD vacuum line (4.2L engines) or the TAB vacuum line (5.8L engines). 6) Have a Pencil and Paper Ready. • This is for writing down all the codes. 7) Go to SELF-TEST PART 2: Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Self-Test.
Self-Test Part 2: Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Self-Test. IMPORTANT: You must complete all steps in Self-Test Part 1 before proceeding to Part 2. 1) Verify: • All codes are 2 digits long. Ignition Key is in OFF Position and Code Scanner is Connected. • The pause between each digit is 2 seconds. 2) Put Code Scanner HOLD/TEST Switch in TEST Position. • Optional: Turn the AUDIO switch ON to hear “beeps” when the codes are sent. 3) Turn Ignition Key to ON Position but DO NOT START THE ENGINE.
• Have your vehicle professionally serviced. Codes indicate problems found by the computer. or, • Repair the vehicle yourself using service codes to help pinpoint the problem. Refer to Test Results Chart. Key On Engine Off (KOEO) Test Results KOEO CODES ACTION TO TAKE: 11* (all except high altitude) System pass. No problem found by computer during KOEO SelfTest. Go to SELF-TEST PART 3: Key On Engine Running (KOER) Self-Test. 62* (high altitude V-6 or V-8 ONLY) System pass.
Self-Test Part 3: Key On Engine Running (KOER) Self-Test. IMPORTANT: You must complete all steps in Self-Test Parts 1 and 2 before proceeding to Part 3. For Vehicles With I-4 & I-6 Engines: • Count flashes on the STO light. (Ignore any flashes lasting longer than 1 second.) (Refer to page 44 for V-6 & V-8 engines.) – 4 cylinder: 2 Flashes. – 6 cylinder: 3 Flashes. 1) Verify: Note: If the light does not flash or flashes the wrong number, go back and repeat SELF-TEST PART 3 starting with Step 1.
Example of code series 12 and 42: • Block the drive wheels. ❊ PAUSE ❊❊ • Stay away from moving engine parts. FLASH (pause) FLASH FLASH (longer pause) 2) Start the Engine. ❊❊❊❊ PAUSE ❊❊ 3) Warm-Up Engine. FLASH FLASH FLASH FLASH (pause) FLASH FLASH • Allow engine to idle until it reaches normal operating temperature. Then... (longer pause) ❊ PAUSE ❊❊ • Run engine at 2000 RPM for 2 minutes. FLASH (pause) FLASH FLASH 4) Turn Engine Off, Then Immediately Restart Engine and Allow to Idle.
– Tap on end of extension with a light (4 oz.) hammer for 15 seconds. 8) Turn Ignition Key to OFF Position. 9) Remove Code Scanner. At this point you can either: • Have your vehicle professionally serviced. Codes indicate problems found by the computer. – DO NOT TAP SENSOR! or, 7) Get Service Codes From the Flashing STO Light. • Repair the vehicle yourself using service codes to help pinpoint the problem. Refer to Test Results Chart. Code definitions are listed in Section 8, “Code Meanings (MCU system).
Key On Engine Running (KOER) Test Results KOER CODES ACTION TO TAKE: 11* (all except high altitude) System pass. No problem found by computer during KOER SelfTest. The Self-Test Diagnostic Procedure is complete. If vehicle symptoms are still present, they are probably not related to the computer system. 62* (high altitude V-6 or V-8 ONLY) System pass. No problem found by computer during KOER SelfTest. The Self-Test Diagnostic Procedure is complete.
CODE MEANINGS Code Definitions for FORD Engines with MCU Computer System (Microprocessor Control Unit) Code definitions are listed in this section • Many of the codes listed may not apply to your vehicle. • Use the definition that applies to your engine type: In-Line 4 or 6 cylinder (I-4, I-6) or V-6 or V-8. • Follow vehicle service manual procedures to find the cause of the code.
V-6: Mid Vacuum Switch circuit is always open. V-8: Mid Vacuum Switch circuit is always open. 56 I-6: Closed Throttle Vacuum Switch circuit is always open. 61 V-6: Hi/Low Vacuum Switch circuit is always closed. V-8: Hi/Low Vacuum Switch circuit is always closed. 62 Note: “High Altitude” refers to vehicles with computer adjusted for operation at high elevations such as in Denver, Colorado. I-4 (car): Idle Tracking Switch (ITS) circuit is closed at idle.
COMPUTER BASICS What does the Engine Control Computer do? EEC-IV and MCU What has NOT changed? This section explains the EEC-IV engine computer control system, the types of sensors and how the computer controls fuel delivery, idle speed, spark timing and emission devices. The MCU system is described later, but this entire section must still be read for complete understanding. A computer controlled engine is basically the same as earlier types.
ECA BRAINS OF THE COMPUTER O AC UT TU P AT UT OR S UT INP SORS SEN (oil pressure, fuel level, etc.) Signals running into the computer are referred to as “inputs.” Sensors monitor such things as: • Engine temperature OFF (no voltage signal to the computer). Switches connect to two wires and tell the computer simple things, such as whether or not the air conditioner is running.
amount of fuel delivered and the computer would not know it. is. Sensors used: coolant temperature, throttle position, manifold absolute pressure, mass air flow, RPM. Hot engine cruise condition • ...how much air is coming into the engine. Sensors used: mass air flow or a combination of manifold absolute pressure, manifold air temperature, RPM. “Closed Loop” operation The computer watches the coolant temperature and throttle position sensors to tell when the engine is all warmed up and cruising.
How the computer controls Idle Speed Throttle position and RPM sensors tell the computer when the vehicle is idling. (Sometimes an idle position switch on the throttle is used.) The computer merely watches RPM and adjusts an idle speed control device on the vehicle to maintain the desired idle condition. Note that this is another example of “closed loop” operation.
More information How MCU measures Throttle Position The Reference Glossary describes the various sensors and actuators used in the EEC-IV and MCU systems. You can learn more by reading these definitions. • Some MCU systems use an Idle Tracking Switch. This is an electrical switch mounted near the throttle linkage on the carburetor. The switch is open when the throttle is resting in idle position. The switch closes as soon as the throttle is moved off idle.
mixture to deliver. an electric motor (“Feedback Carburetor Actuator”) to position this rod. MCU idle speed adjustment • Another method uses a fuel metering rod positioned by vacuum. The computer controls vacuum to this rod by using a “Vacuum Regulator Solenoid”. The computer sends a duty cycle signal (see definition in Reference Glossary) to the solenoid to vary vacuum. The MCU system does not control idle speed – a standard mechanical idle cam mechanism is used.
REFERENCE GLOSSARY A/C Air conditioner ACC Air Conditioner Clutch signal. This tells the ECA that either the A/C compressor is running or that A/C operation is being requested (depends upon vehicle). ACT Air Charge Temperature sensor. This sensor is a thermistor – a resistor whose resistance decreases with temperature. It is threaded into the intake manifold so the ECA can determine the temperature of the incoming air. This is used for fuel delivery calculations.
information when controlling fuel delivery, Thermactor Air System, spark retard, throttle kicker and canister purge. CPS Crankshaft Position Sensor. This crankshaft mounted sensor sends a frequency signal to the ECA. (See PIP signal definition.) It is used to reference fuel injector operation and synchronize spark plug firing on distributorless ignitions. CS Clutch switch. Cylinder Balance Test A diagnostic Self-Test only used on Sequential Electronic Fuel Injector (SEFI) engines.
EDF Electro-Drive Fan relay. The ECA energizes this relay to apply power to the Electro-Drive Fan (mounted in front of the radiator) for engine cooling purposes. The fan is only turned on when the ECA determines cooling is necessary. EDIS Electronic Distributorless Ignition System. Ford technical manuals use EDIS when referring to a particular distributorless ignition system where a separate module (EDIS module) directly controls spark firing and synchronization.
FBC Feedback Carburetor. This is used on early versions of computer controlled engines. It is a carburetor which can have its air/fuel delivery modified by an electronic signal from the ECA. Three versions are used. See definitions for FBCA, FCS and VRS. FBCA Feedback Carburetor Actuator. Used on feedback carburetors – those where the engine computer controls the air/ fuel ratio. The FBCA is a stepper motor (see Stepper Motor definition).
ISC Idle Speed Control. This refers to a small electric stepper motor mounted on the throttle body and controlled by the ECA. (See Stepper Motor definition.) The ISC motor moves a spindle back and forth. When the throttle is released during idle, it rests on this spindle. The ECA can control idle speed by adjusting this spindle position. The ECA determines the desired idle speed by looking at coolant temperature, engine load and RPM.
NDS Neutral Drive Switch. Used on vehicles with automatic transmissions. The ECA uses this switch to determine when the transmission is in or out of gear. The ECA can adjust idle speed to compensate for increased engine loading due to engaged transmission. NGS Neutral Gear Switch. Used on vehicles with manual transmissions. The ECA uses this switch to determine when the transmission is in or out of gear. NPS Neutral Pressure Switch. Located in automatic transaxle.
Self-Test Connector The connector that the Code Scanner plugs into for testing purposes. The connector is wired to the ECA, and is located in the engine compartment. Tests are run and codes are read with the Code Scanner connected. Sometimes this connector is called VIP (Vehicle in Process). Self-Test Input (STI) A wire between the ECA and either the Self-Test connector (MCU systems) or a separate connector (EEC-IV systems). The wire is used to activate the Self-Test procedures.
TFI-IV Thick Film Ignition system, version 4. An ignition system consisting of a distributor, ignition coil and TFI-IV module. The ECA controls the spark advance timing. A camshaft position sensor in the distributor sends a reference signal (called PIP) to the ECA. The ECA sends a spark advance signal (called SPOUT) to the TFI-IV module which fires the spark coil. The distributor mechanically switches the spark voltage to the various plugs in the usual manner.
VCRM Variable Control Relay Module. Contains electronic switches to control power to A/C clutch, engine cooling fan, fuel pump, etc. ECA controls module. A 2-wire DCL circuit carries ECA instruction signals to a computer circuit inside VCRM. Power delivered by VCRM can be adjusted so that, for example, engine fan can be slowly turned on or run at various speeds. WAC Wide-open-throttle Air conditioner Cut-off relay. Used by the ECA to turn off the A/C clutch and thus reduce engine loading.
ONE (1) YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY Actron Manufacturing Company (“Actron”) warrants to the original purchaser that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase. Any unit that fails within this period will be replaced or repaired at Actron’s discretion without charge. If you need to return product, please follow the instructions below.
