Check engine self test 3126

[cgapauto]

Our 97 winnebego vectra grand tour flashed the check engine light, on for 5 seconds off,. then on again for 5 and repeat. The engine goes low on power, developes a miss which is even noticible at idle. After cool down overnight it will start and run fine for about 1/2 hour of drive time then do it again. Changed the filter and water seperator and re primed but still the same. I suspect an injector.

Does any one have a way to check the codes by self test. This is a 3126 with a freightliner chassi. I haven't gotten a direct answer from freaightliner or Cat.

Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks

[OneRVer]

I had the same problem with my 97 Triple E, same engine as yours. My problem was with the Injection Actuation Pressure Control valve and sensor. This will show up on the computer print out. If I remember right the cost was around $900.00 with parts, labor and tax. Also you should have your head valves adjusted if you are around or over 35,000 miles. I think that cost was $250.00.

[Martind4]

Silverleaf has a computer program called VmSpc that will read engine diagnostic codes. The laptop program is a free download, but it takes a special cable interface to make it work. It plugs into the round diagnostic port under the dash near the steering wheel and probably has a gray dust cap cover.

The interface is available from one of our sponsors RV Upgrades for just over $300. You'll need to know whether you have a 6 or 9 pin connector when you order.

VmSpc does a lot more than just read diagnostic codes, it's a complete engine monitoring system that allows you to design your own display screen. Check it out at: SilverLeaf Electronics, Inc. | Knowledge is Horsepower

[cgapauto]

So far I found out that you need to have a cruise control with a seperate on / off switch. Keep it off then hit the resume 2 times then hold for 4 seconds, this will get the CE light to go through it's flash codes. I don't have that sys so i brought it to Cat...they found a code for #3 missfire and will be checking in to it tomorrow...I'll keep you posted.

Thanks,

Dan

[OneRVer]

I will have to try that. This is the first time I have heard of it. Thank you for the info.

[cgapauto]

#3 missfire code 133 times ends up being a injector harness to that cylinder. $21.00 part..........787.00 total fix..Guess it takes about 4 - 5 hours to get 'er done,,FYI..Upgrading from 275 hp to 300 hp costs $675.00 through CAT.

Thanks,

Dan

[OneRVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by cgapauto #3 missfire code 133 times ends up being a injector harness to that cylinder. $21.00 part..........787.00 total fix..Guess it takes about 4 - 5 hours to get 'er done,,FYI..Upgrading from 275 hp to 300 hp costs $675.00 through CAT. Thanks, Dan

Did you do the Allison test first to make sure it would handle the extra horse power?

[cgapauto]

Allison Test?....Never new about that, but i didn't op for the upgrade at this time. How do you perform the allison test to see if it can handle the extra power...wouldn't CAT have advised against it if it wouldn't handle it?

Thanks for the help!

Dan

[OneRVer]

I was talking with an Allison man about heating problems. Somehow we got on the topic about increasing my hp and he said to have ( I do not remember the name of the test) the allison test done first. Cat was charging $300. for the increase. I ask them about have the allison test done and they wanted $200. more for that test. I do not think CAT really cared if I had it done or not.

I will find the name of the test and will report back.

[OneRVer]

I just received an email from the Allison tech that I deal with. I guess there is no name for this test. What he did say was that the transmission is match to your Hp. Before you increase the Hp you should verify that the transmission can take the extra Hp. CAT should know what I am talking about. If not, contact Allison and confirm with them. Sorry I could not provide anymore information this. Lets us know what you do.