John Deere E201 – BaleTrak™ Pro: Twine Actuator Disconnected

The electronic control system has detected a loss of connection to the twine actuator. This is an electrical fault indicating an open circuit, a disconnected harness, or a complete failure of the actuator's internal motor windings, which prevents the system from controlling the twine wrap function.

• 335
• 375
• 385
• 446
• 447
• 448
• 449
• 456
• 457
• 458
• 459
• 466
• 467
• 468
• 469
• 546
• 547
• 550M
• 556
• 557
• 558
• 559
• 560M
• 560R
• 565
• 566
• 567
• 568
• 569
• 570
• 572
• 575
• 578
• 580
• 582
• 590
• 592
• 842
• 852
• 854
• 862
• F440M
• F440R
• V451R
• V461R

1. 1

   Visually inspect the entire wiring harness running to the twine actuator for chafed, pinched, or broken wires.

2. 2

   Check electrical connectors at the actuator and control module (especially the 2-pin Metri-Pack plug) for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture.

3. 3

   Measure voltage at the actuator's electrical connector when the twine wrap function is activated (ensure tractor power supply is 13.8–14.4V).

4. 4

   Use BaleTrak™ monitor diagnostics: Check Channel 19 for system voltage and Channel 18 for actuator current draw (expect 0-1 static, 1-8 operating).

5. 5

   Measure resistance across the two motor terminals with the actuator disconnected to check for an open or short circuit.

1. 1

   Prepare machine for service

   Turn off the tractor engine, remove the key, and disconnect the power cord to the baler's monitor-controller. Keep hands clear of twine arms as they can move unexpectedly.

2. 2

   Repair wiring harness

   If diagnostic checks revealed damaged wires or corroded connectors, repair or replace the faulty section of the harness.

3. 3

   Replace twine actuator

   If wiring is intact but the actuator failed resistance or voltage tests, remove any necessary guards or curtains, disconnect the electrical connector, remove mounting hardware, and install the new actuator.

4. 4

   Adjust actuator and linkage

   Set the home position, check the twine cutter overlap, and ensure cutter strap tension is correct according to the service manual specifications. This typically involves moving washers on the cutter strap and adjusting the actuator's pivot position.

5. 5

   Clear fault code

   Turn the tractor and monitor-controller back on. Press the 'Minus' key while the actuator is in its off/home state to clear the E201 code from the display.

6. 6

   Test operation

   Cycle the twine wrap system using the monitor-controller's EXTEND and RETRACT keys to confirm the new actuator functions correctly through its full range of motion.