John Deere E202 – BaleTrak Pro: Twine Actuator Faulty or Jammed

The baler's control system has detected a problem with the electric twine actuator. This code is triggered if the actuator fails to move as commanded or draws abnormal electrical current, which can be caused by a mechanical obstruction, wiring issues, or an internal motor failure.

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1. 1

   Thoroughly inspect the twine actuator, twine arms, and linkage for foreign objects, hay buildup, or debris restricting movement (mechanical jam).

2. 2

   Check for a twine arm caught on a compressor rod or wedged against the knife, ensuring all mechanical components are free to move and properly lubricated.

3. 3

   Inspect the wiring harness and connectors between the monitor-controller and the twine actuator for loose, disconnected, corroded, or damaged wires and pins.

4. 4

   Perform an Actuator Electrical Test using diagnostic Channel 018 on the monitor to check current draw. Turn the tractor key to the ON position (engine off), hold the COUNTER key while turning the monitor on, and press the PLUS key until 'CH018' appears. Use EXTEND and RETRACT keys to operate. Mid-stroke (no load) should be 1-8 amps; fully stalled should be 22-30 amps. Spikes indicate mechanical obstruction, low readings indicate poor connections, and high/out-of-range readings indicate binding or a shorted motor.

1. 1

   Remove and replace actuator

   If diagnostics indicate a faulty actuator, turn off all power to the baler and tractor. Disconnect the electrical connector, remove the mounting hardware securing the actuator to the frame and twine arm, install the new actuator, and reconnect the electrical connector.

2. 2

   Perform mechanical adjustments

   After installation, perform initial mechanical adjustments of the twine cutter strap and related components to the specific dimensions and clearances detailed in your model's operator's manual.

3. 3

   Calibrate actuator (Channel 029)

   Enter Channel 29 on the monitor. With the baler gate open and secured, use the EXTEND and RETRACT keys to fully retract the actuator (monitor displays '0'), then fully extend it. Press the PLUS and MINUS keys simultaneously to save the calibrated positions.

4. 4

   Verify and clear code

   Power the monitor off and on, then perform a manual tying cycle to verify the twine arm travels to the correct positions. Adjust values in Channel 29 as needed to fine-tune the stop points. Turn the actuator off and press the 'Minus' key on the monitor-controller to clear the E202 code.