John Deere 168.04 – CCU: Unswitched Supply Voltage Low
Issue description
The control unit has detected that the unswitched battery power supply voltage has dropped below the normal operational threshold (typically less than 9.0 Volts). This low voltage condition can impair the functionality of electronic components, causing the module to disable functions or enter a safety mode to protect the system's integrity.
Applies to these machines
26 machines- 6110M
- 6120M
- 6130M
- 6145M
- 6155M
- 6175M
- 6195M
- 6110R
- 6120R
- 6130R
- 6145R
- 6155R
- 6175R
- 6195R
- 6215R
- 8245R through 8400R
- 9230
- 9330
- 9430
- 9530
- 9630
- 9470RT
- 9520RT
- 9570RT
- 4930
- R4038
Check the cause
Attempt vehicle recovery by reducing the electrical load (turn off non-essential cab accessories/lights) or increasing engine RPM to see if the alternator can catch up and clear the low-voltage state
Visually inspect the area around the batteries and alternator for obvious signs of damage, loose belts, or accumulated debris
Power down the machine and check the CCU unswitched power fuses (e.g., F28 in the cab load center or the 70-amp CCU fuse in the rear cab fuse block)
Test the battery's health and state of charge, and check the alternator and voltage regulator to ensure they are outputting proper voltage (typically 13.5V - 14.2V while running)
Inspect the wiring harness and connectors supplying unswitched power to the CCU for chafed wires, corrosion, or loose ground connections
Measure the voltage directly at the CCU input pins. If the voltage is below 9.0V but the battery tests at 12V+, the issue is isolated to the wiring harness or a bad ground
Repair steps
Cycle Power
Turn off the tractor, wait a few moments, and cycle the key switch. Sometimes a temporary voltage dip during a heavy load will trigger the code, and a restart will clear it.
Clean Connections
Disconnect the negative and positive battery cables. Clean the battery terminals, cable ends, and chassis ground points with a wire brush to ensure solid electrical contact. Reconnect and tighten.
Replace Blown Fuses
If the CCU fuse is blown, inspect the harness for a short to ground before replacing the fuse. Replace with the exact OEM amperage rating.
Repair Wiring
If a voltage drop is found between the battery and the CCU, repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness or the corroded connector.
Replace Charging Components
If the battery fails a load test, replace it. If the alternator fails to maintain voltage under load, replace the alternator.
Clear Codes
After repairs, turn the key on, clear the fault codes via the CommandCenter display, and start the engine to verify the code does not return.
Parts you might need
(6)Alternator (12V, 250A/330A)
DZ124336Fitment: 8R, 8RT, 8RX, 9R, 9RT, 9RX series and late-model sprayers
Alternator (12V, 250A/330A)
DZ124395Fitment: 8R, 8RT, 8RX, 9R, 9RT, 9RX series and late-model sprayers
Alternator (12V, 250A/330A)
DZ110279Fitment: 8R, 8RT, 8RX, 9R, 9RT, 9RX series and late-model sprayers
CCU Unswitched Power Fuse
Generic 70-Amp Maxi Fuse or standard blade fuse (depending on the specific load center location)
Battery
Generic John Deere StrongBox battery (Group size depends on tractor model)
Wiring Harness / Connectors
Generic OEM pigtails or main chassis harness (Requires specific machine serial number to source)
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