John Deere 101.16 – ECU: Crankcase Pressure Moderately High

This code indicates that the pressure within the engine's crankcase is registering as moderately high. This condition is typically caused by a restricted crankcase ventilation system (clogged blow-by filter) or excessive engine blow-by due to internal wear (such as worn piston rings or cylinders).

• 5085E
• 5090E
• 5090EL
• 5100E
• 5085M
• 5100M
• 5100MH
• 5100ML
• 5115ML
• 5090M
• 5115M
• 6110M
• 6120M
• 6130M
• 6145M
• 6155M
• 6175M
• 6195M
• 6110R
• 6120R
• 6130R
• 6145R
• 6155R
• 6175R
• 6195R
• 6215R
• 6105D
• 6170R
• 7200R
• 7230R
• 310K
• 310L
• 410K
• 450K
• 550K
• 650K
• 130G
• 160GLC
• 210GLC
• 344K
• 524K
• 624K

1. 1

   Inspect the crankcase ventilation filter (blow-by filter) for heavy oil saturation, clogs, or blockages (most common cause)

2. 2

   Check all hoses and pathways in the crankcase ventilation system to ensure they are not kinked, blocked, or malfunctioning

3. 3

   Measure the actual crankcase pressure with a mechanical gauge to confirm if the pressure is genuinely high or if the Crankcase Pressure Sensor is providing a false reading

4. 4

   Evaluate internal engine wear for signs of excessive engine blow-by (points to worn piston rings or cylinder wear) if the ventilation system is clear and the sensor is accurate

1. 1

   Replace the Blow-By Filter

   If the filter is clogged (or if the machine has reached the recommended service interval, often around 1,500 hours), remove the valve cover housing or filter housing and replace the crankcase vent filter element.

2. 2

   Clear Ventilation Lines

   Clean out any sludge or blockages in the crankcase breather hoses.

3. 3

   Replace the Sensor

   If manual pressure tests show normal crankcase pressure but the ECU still reads high, replace the Crankcase Pressure Sensor.

4. 4

   Engine Overhaul

   If diagnostics prove that excessive blow-by is caused by internal wear, the engine will require a teardown to replace piston rings and/or machine the cylinders.

5. 5

   Reset and Test

   After repairs, cycle the tractor's power, reset the engine control system codes, and run the machine under load to monitor if the crankcase pressure returns to normal levels.