John Deere 186.17 – RPT or BCU: Rear PTO Speed Sensor, Speed Too Low / Rear PTO Speed Sensor No Signal

Triggered when the control unit detects that the rear PTO has been switched on, but the rear PTO speed sensor (B06) fails to transmit a valid speed signal (typically >100 RPM) within a set timeframe (e.g., 20 seconds). This indicates that either the sensor is failing to detect motion, the PTO clutch is slipping excessively, or the PTO was turned on without a speed setting being properly engaged.

• 6110M
• 6120M
• 6130M
• 6145M
• 6155M
• 6175M
• 6195M
• 6110R
• 6120R
• 6130R
• 6145R
• 6155R
• 6175R
• 6195R
• 6215R
• 6120 to 6520
• 6110M to 6195M
• 6230
• 6330
• 6430 Premium
• 7130
• 7430
• 7530 Premium
• 7600
• 7700
• 7800
• 7610
• 7710
• 7810
• 6135J
• 6140J
• 6150J
• 6155J
• 6170J
• 6190J
• 6210J

1. 1

   Verify PTO Engagement: Ensure the PTO is physically engaging and that a speed setting (e.g., 540 or 1000 RPM) is properly selected.

2. 2

   Implement Check: Ensure the connected implement is not jammed or causing the PTO to run at an artificially low speed due to excessive drag.

3. 3

   Wiring and Connector Inspection: Inspect the wiring harness leading to the Rear PTO Speed Sensor (B06). Look for abrasions, cuts, or corrosion at the connector pins. A broken wire is a highly common cause for a no signal condition.

4. 4

   Sensor Continuity Test: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the sensor circuit to rule out an open circuit between the BCU/RPT and the sensor.

5. 5

   Clutch Inspection: Check the rear PTO clutch for signs of excessive slip. If the clutch is slipping, the tone wheel will not spin fast enough to generate the expected signal.

1. 1

   Power Down

   Turn off the tractor, remove the key, and engage the parking brake.

2. 2

   Locate the Sensor

   Locate the Rear PTO Speed Sensor (B06) on the rear PTO housing.

3. 3

   Disconnect Harness

   Unplug the wiring harness connector from the sensor.

4. 4

   Remove the Sensor

   Unbolt and remove the speed sensor from the PTO housing.

5. 5

   Inspect the Tone Wheel

   Look through the sensor port into the housing. Verify that the internal tone wheel/gear is intact and not damaged or loose.

6. 6

   Install New Sensor

   Insert the replacement PTO speed sensor into the housing.

7. 7

   Torque to Spec

   Tighten the sensor retaining bolt. (Note: OEM torque spec for models like the 6150J is 13 N·m or 10 lb.-ft).

8. 8

   Reconnect and Clear

   Reconnect the wiring harness. Turn the key on, access the BCU or RPT diagnostic menu on the cab display, and clear the stored 000186.17 fault code.

9. 9

   Test Operation

   Start the tractor and engage the rear PTO to verify the speed registers correctly and the code does not return.