John Deere 3673.03 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): Exhaust Throttle Actuator Position Signal Out Of Range High

The controller is receiving a position signal from the Exhaust Throttle Actuator (ETA) that is higher than the component's acceptable limit. This typically indicates an open input wire, an open ground wire, or a signal wire that is shorted to a higher voltage.

• 5085E
• 5090E
• 5090EL
• 5100E
• 5090M
• 5100M
• 5100MH
• 5100ML
• 5115M
• 160GLC
• 210G
• 210GLC
• 250GLC
• 290GLC
• 5045E
• 6105E
• 6090MC
• 6090RC
• 6100MC
• 6100RC
• 6110MC
• 6110RC

1. 1

   Inspect the Exhaust Throttle Actuator wiring harness and connectors for physical damage, melted wires, corrosion, or backed-out pins.

2. 2

   Test the sensor supply voltage and ground circuits at the actuator connector, specifically looking for a broken/open ground wire or a signal wire shorted to a 12V/24V power source.

3. 3

   Look for accompanying ECU codes that might indicate a shared circuit issue, such as 003509.03 (Sensor Supply Voltage Out of Range High) or 003465.xx series codes.

4. 4

   Connect John Deere Service ADVISOR and attempt to run an Exhaust Throttle Actuator test or calibration. If the ECU cannot communicate with the position sensor or the voltage remains pegged high, the internal sensor has likely failed.

1. 1

   Preparation

   Turn off the machine, remove the key, and disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts or accidental actuation.

2. 2

   Drain Coolant

   On liquid-cooled models, place a drain pan under the engine and drain the coolant.

3. 3

   Disconnect Lines

   Disconnect the Exhaust Throttle Actuator coolant supply and return lines.

4. 4

   Remove Actuator

   Disconnect the electrical harness from the actuator. Unbolt the actuator assembly from the exhaust/intake piping linkage.

5. 5

   Install New Part

   Mount the new Exhaust Throttle Actuator. Reconnect the linkage, coolant lines, and electrical connector.

6. 6

   Refill Fluids

   Refill the engine with approved coolant (e.g., John Deere Cool-Gard II) and bleed the cooling system of air.

7. 7

   Calibration

   Reconnect the battery. You must use John Deere Service ADVISOR to clear the fault codes and perform the 'Exhaust Throttle Actuator Learn/Calibration' procedure so the ECU can learn the new actuator's end-stops.