3178

Case IH 3178 – Engine Control Module (EDC / Engine ECU): Timeout of CAN Message BC2EDC1

Issue description

This is a communication error on the machine's Controller Area Network (CAN bus). Specifically, the Engine Control Module is expecting to receive a continuous data message (BC2EDC1) from the Body Computer (BC) or Vehicle Control Module (VCM), but the message is not arriving within the required time limit.

Applies to these machines

  • Magnum 235 - 340 (Series 4)
  • Steiger series
  • Puma series
  • Maxxum series
  • Axial-Flow Combines
  • 621C
  • 721F
  • 821F
  • 921F

Check the cause

  1. Verify the Body Computer (BC) / Vehicle Control Module (VCM) is physically present and securely connected to the network

  2. Test the voltage supply and ground circuits to the Body Computer to rule out an undervoltage condition causing the CAN controller to drop offline

  3. Inspect the CAN bus communication lines (CAN High and CAN Low) between the Body Computer and the Engine Control Module for open circuits, short circuits to ground, or short circuits to battery voltage

  4. Inspect the harness connectors at both the Body Computer and the EDC for pushed pins, corrosion, or moisture intrusion

Repair steps

  1. Power Down

    Turn off the machine and disconnect the battery to prevent electrical spikes during testing.

  2. Visual Inspection

    Locate the Body Computer and the Engine Control Module. Disconnect the wiring harnesses and inspect the pins. Clean any corrosion with electrical contact cleaner.

  3. Continuity Testing

    Using a digital multimeter, measure the resistance of the CAN lines between the Body Computer and the EDC. Repair any broken wires or chafed insulation causing a short circuit.

  4. Voltage Testing

    Reconnect the battery and turn the key to the ON position. Verify that the Body Computer is receiving the correct operating voltage (typically 12V) on its supply pins.

  5. Component Replacement

    If the wiring harness is intact, the connectors are clean, and the Body Computer is receiving proper voltage but still failing to broadcast the BC2EDC1 message, the Body Computer's internal CAN controller is likely defective. Replace the Body Computer.

  6. System Reset

    After repairing the wiring or replacing the module, clear the fault codes using a diagnostic service tool (such as Jaltest or CNH EST) and cycle the key to verify the code does not return.

Parts you might need

(4)
  • CAN-Bus Wire Harness

    87550664

    Fitment varies heavily by specific tractor/combine model and chassis configuration

  • CAN-Bus Wire Harness

    87390674

    Fitment varies heavily by specific tractor/combine model and chassis configuration

  • Body Computer / Vehicle Control Module (VCM)

    5802808173

    Part numbers are highly specific to the machine's options and cab configuration. A replacement Body Computer will likely require dealer programming/flashing to match the machine's dataset.

  • Engine Control Module (EDC)

    Only replace if the EDC is proven to have a faulty CAN receiver, which is rare for this specific code.

Get help to fix this fault by requesting a quote

Browse other Case IH codes