John Deere 523951.1 – SFA (Suspended Front Axle) Control Unit: SFA Not Reached The Required Position
Issue description
This code indicates that the Suspended Front Axle (SFA) did not reach its expected or commanded position during operation or during a calibration routine. The position sensor failed to detect the required upward or downward movement within the expected timeframe (usually 10 seconds).
Applies to these machines
21 machines- 6110M
- 6120M
- 6130M
- 6145M
- 6155M
- 6175M
- 6195M
- 6110R
- 6120R
- 6130R
- 6145R
- 6155R
- 6175R
- 6195R
- 6215R
- 6090MC
- 6090RC
- 6100MC
- 6100RC
- 6110MC
- 6110RC
Check the cause
Check the transmission/hydraulic fluid levels and ensure there are no leaks. Inspect the hydraulic pump and lines for proper operation.
Inspect the front suspension system for any mechanical obstructions, accumulated debris, or physical damage that might prevent the axle from moving up or down.
Test the SFA position sensor (right/left) to ensure it is receiving the correct power supply voltage and that the wiring harness is free of corrosion or disconnections.
Check the raise/lower command solenoids (Level 1 and Level 2 solenoid valves) for proper operation and ensure they are receiving the correct signals from the SFA module.
Ensure the tractor is in PARK. Check that the suspension cylinders are not fully extended. If they are fully extended, the SFA module will not detect movement and will fail the calibration.
Repair steps
Clear Obstructions
Remove any debris or mechanical obstructions found around the front axle suspension.
Correct Fluid Levels
Top up the hydraulic oil reservoir if the level is low.
Replace Defective Components
If diagnostic tests isolate a failure, replace the faulty SFA position sensor, damaged wiring harness, or defective solenoid valve.
Prepare for Calibration
If the suspension cylinders are fully extended, manually adjust them: with the engine OFF, disconnect the axle position feedback sensor link from the lower pivot pin. Push the link all the way up to its stop (tape it if necessary). Start the engine to allow the cylinders to retract, then reconnect the link.
Recalibrate the SFA
Initiate the SFA calibration procedure via the tractor's CommandCenter display.
Verify Repair
Allow the calibration to run. Successful calibration is confirmed when the display shows 'END' without throwing any active error codes.
Parts you might need
(8)SFA Position Sensor (Front Axle Position Sensor)
L76217Older models
SFA Position Sensor (Front Axle Position Sensor)
L76248Older models
SFA Position Sensor (Front Axle Position Sensor)
AL110352Older models
SFA Solenoid Valve (Raise/Lower Solenoid)
Level 1 / Level 2 Solenoid Valve
SFA Control Unit (Front Chassis Module)
AL119257Older generation example
SFA Control Unit (Front Chassis Module)
AL113367Older generation example
SFA Control Unit (Front Chassis Module)
AL118389Older generation example
John Deere Hy-Gard Transmission/Hydraulic Oil
For topping up the reservoir
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