Case IH 3338 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): CAN Message Not Received From Vehicle Controller - TSC1_VE Message Passive

There is a Controller Area Network (CAN) communication failure or timeout between the main Vehicle Controller and the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU expects to receive a continuous data broadcast known as the TSC1_VE (Torque Speed Control 1 - Vehicle Engine) message. When this message is missing, corrupted, or times out, the system flags it as 'Passive' and logs code 3338.

• Farmall
• skid steer
• Magnum Tractors
• Puma Tractors
• Steiger Tractors
• Farmall Tractors
• 240 Series Combines
• Skid Steer Loaders (SSL)
• Compact Track Loaders (CTL)

1. 1

   Verify if other CAN timeout codes are present (such as 3339 for TSC1-VE Active, or 3358 for Primary Vehicle CAN Bus Failure) to rule out a broader network failure.

2. 2

   Inspect the CAN Node A Bus wiring between the Vehicle Controller and the ECU.

3. 3

   Check the wiring harness connectors at both the Engine Controller and the Vehicle Controller for moisture, corrosion, or backed-out pins.

4. 4

   Use a multimeter to test the CAN High and CAN Low wires for continuity, short-to-ground, or short-to-power.

1. 1

   Power Down

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

2. 2

   Locate Modules

   Locate the Engine Control Unit (ECU) on the engine block and the main Vehicle Controller (usually located in the cab or under the side console, depending on the model).

3. 3

   Disconnect and Inspect

   Disconnect the harness connectors from both modules. Inspect the terminals for fretting, corrosion, or damage. Clean the contacts with an approved electrical contact cleaner.

4. 4

   Test the Harness

   Perform a pin-to-pin continuity test on the CAN communication wires (twisted pair) running between the Vehicle Controller and the ECU.

5. 5

   Repair Wiring

   If high resistance, an open circuit, or a short is found, repair the damaged section of the CAN bus wiring harness or replace the affected harness segment. Ensure any repaired CAN wires remain twisted to prevent electromagnetic interference.

6. 6

   Reassemble and Clear Codes

   Reconnect all modules, restore battery power, and use a diagnostic service tool to clear the fault codes.

7. 7

   Test Operation

   Start the engine and verify communication. If the wiring is fully intact and the code returns, the Engine Controller or Vehicle Controller may be experiencing an internal hardware failure or require a software re-flash by an authorized dealer.