John Deere 3720.15 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): Calculated Ash Level Slightly High

The DPF Ash Level Is High. The calculated ash level has risen slightly higher than expected, reducing the capacity for soot storage and increasing exhaust backpressure. It serves as an advisory that the DPF will soon require maintenance.

• 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
• 5095M
• 5105M
• 7210R
• 7230R
• 7250R
• 7270R
• 7290R
• 7310R
• 8235R
• 8260R
• 8285R
• 8310R
• 8335R
• 8360R
• 7760

1. 1

   Check for active prompts on the CommandCenter or engine settings page requesting a parked filter cleaning (manual regeneration).

2. 2

   Verify engine operating conditions to ensure efficient running, as poor fuel quality, incomplete combustion, or excessive oil consumption can accelerate ash production.

3. 3

   Use John Deere Service Advisor to check for other active codes (such as air throttle valve or EGR codes) that might be preventing an automatic regeneration.

4. 4

   Monitor the three DPF soot load readings using Service Advisor to determine if the filter is genuinely full of ash or if it simply failed to complete a recent regeneration.

1. 1

   Attempt Parked Regeneration

   First, initiate a parked filter cleaning via the engine settings page as per the Operator's Manual to burn off any accumulated soot that might be contributing to the restriction.

2. 2

   Remove the DPF

   If the code persists and the ash level is confirmed high, the DPF must be removed from the machine.

3. 3

   Professional Ash Removal / Exchange

   Do NOT attempt to clean the DPF using water or chemicals, as this will destroy the internal matting and void the emissions warranty. The DPF must be placed into specialized pneumatic/thermal cleaning equipment. Alternatively, John Deere offers a DPF exchange program where you can swap your full filter for a professionally cleaned, remanufactured unit.

4. 4

   Reset the ECU

   Once the cleaned or replacement DPF is installed, use Service Advisor to reset the ECU's ash accumulator data. If this data is not reset, the ECU will still believe the filter is restricted and will keep the engine in a derated state.

5. 5

   Verify Operation

   Run the machine and monitor the exhaust system to ensure ash and soot levels remain manageable and the fault code does not return.