Bluefire Problem, (I think)

[lawjohnson]

We have a 1998 Holiday Rambler with a 5.9 Cummins and an Allision MD3060 Transmission. Here is the issue that we are having:

The transmission up to the point of installing the Bluefire worked fine. Since installing it the trans has gone into service mode four times. The first was on a drive to the RV shop to have the tow set-up worked on in preparation to a trip we were planning. The trans shifted fine but the service light was on. I got to the store and went inside to let them know I was there. I was told it would be about a 30 minute wait so I decided to go get the codes off the trans. When I turned the ignition on the service light was off. There was one code but I do not remember the number but the description was (lost communication with the engine). Since the service light was off and it was shifting perfect I decided to continue with the trip. On the first day of the trip we pulled into our destination but had to go back out to fill the fresh water tank, (where we were staying their water was off for a repair issue). On the way to Camping World to re-fill the service light came on and the trans went into limp mode, (would only shift to 2nd gear). Got to CW and filled up, started up the coach and no light and it was back to shifting perfectly.
This is where the Bluefire comes in. The third time it happened I noticed that just before the service light comes on the Bluefire stops working and it says it "lost connection". Again, same as before, I cycle the ignition and all is fine, no light...shifts great and the Bluefire is working again. This happened exactly the same the next day.
When it did it the last time, I removed the Bluefire and continued the rest of the trip, (400 miles) and no light!
So, what I have been wondering, could the Bluefire be requesting so much info in this very old system that when the trans askes for info the system is so busy that is kicks on the service light and stops the Bluefire. When this happens, there is no check engine light that comes on but this is the first year of the computer controlled engine so I'm not sure if a communication issue would trigger the light.

Any ideas folks? I know that Mark monitors this forum when he has the time so perhaps there is an answer out there.

Thanks!!

[Ljwt330]

As a layman regarding these issues, I would agree that there may be an issue with the BlueFire and your ECM. A lengthy, trouble free period, without the BF installed, followed by a reinstallation and subsequent problem should confirm it.

The ECM of your vintage probably had some software upgrades over the years and it’s possible it needs one or more updates now. Mark might know for certain, or you could contact Cummins and ask.