1877.31

John Deere 1877.31 – BLC (Basic Load Center): Hitch Control Fault

Issue description

Secondary or informational fault indicating an operational failure in the rear hitch system, likely disabling the hitch for safety. The root cause is tied to a different, specific component failure (such as a position sensor, draft sensor, or hitch valve).

Applies to these machines

  • 6110M
  • 6120M
  • 6130M
  • 6145M
  • 6155M
  • 6175M
  • 6195M
  • 6110R
  • 6120R
  • 6130R
  • 6145R
  • 6155R
  • 6175R
  • 6195R
  • 6215R
  • 6090MC
  • 6100MC
  • 6110MC
  • 6090RC
  • 6100RC
  • 6110RC
  • 6105M
  • 6115M
  • 6125M
  • 6135M
  • 6140M
  • 6150M
  • 6170M

Check the cause

  1. Check for Primary Codes: Connect a diagnostic tool (like John Deere Service ADVISOR or Jaltest) and pull all active/stored codes in the BLC and HCC (Hitch Control) modules. Address any specific sensor or solenoid codes first.

  2. Visual Inspection: Inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors going to the rear hitch position sensor (rockshaft sensor) and the draft pins/sensors. Look for pinched wires, corrosion, or moisture intrusion.

  3. Live Data Monitoring: Use the diagnostic tool to monitor the live voltage/values of the hitch position sensor and draft sensors while manually attempting to raise/lower the hitch. Look for erratic jumps or dead spots in the sensor readings.

  4. Valve Check: Verify that the hitch control valve solenoids are receiving voltage and have proper ground.

Repair steps

  1. Power Down

    Turn off the tractor and disconnect the negative battery cable.

  2. Locate the Component

    Locate the faulty component identified by the primary error code (e.g., the hitch position sensor located on the rear rockshaft).

  3. Removal

    Disconnect the electrical harness connector from the sensor. Remove the retaining bolts/screws and carefully extract the sensor from the housing.

  4. Installation

    Install the new sensor, ensuring any O-rings or seals are properly seated. Tighten the retaining hardware and reconnect the electrical harness.

  5. Calibration

    Reconnect the battery. Turn the key to the ON position. You must perform a rear hitch calibration using the diagnostic tool or the tractor's onboard command center so the BLC can learn the new sensor's minimum and maximum travel limits.

  6. Clear Codes

    Clear the BLC 001877.31 code and any primary codes.

  7. Test

    Start the tractor and cycle the rear hitch through its full range of motion to verify proper operation.

Parts you might need

(5)
  • Hitch Position Sensor (Potentiometer / Rockshaft Sensor)

    AL232444

    Fits various 6M and 6000 series tractors

  • Hitch Position Sensor (Potentiometer / Rockshaft Sensor)

    AL175214

    Fits various 6M and 6000 series tractors

  • Hitch Draft Sensor

    RE43738
  • Hitch Draft Sensor

    AL226252
  • BLC Control Module (Basic Load Center)

    Generic part name; exact OEM part number varies heavily by specific chassis VIN and cab options. Must be ordered to spec if the module itself has failed internally.

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