Massey Ferguson U 2860 - U 2871 – Engine Control Module (ECM / EEM3) and Dosing Control Unit (DCU): CAN Frame Error / CAN Frame Time Date Error
Issue description
Communication failure on the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus where expected data messages are either timing out, being overridden, or reporting out-of-range values.
Applies to these machines
3 machines- Massey Ferguson 8600 Series
- Massey Ferguson 7600 Series
- Massey Ferguson 5700 SL Series
Check the cause
Use a diagnostic scanner (like AGCO EDT or Jaltest) to identify which specific module (e.g., DCU, EGR valve, or instrument panel) has dropped off the network
With the key off and battery disconnected, measure the resistance across the CAN bus (a healthy CAN bus should read approximately 60 ohms)
Verify battery voltage and check the main relays (low voltage or a failing main relay can cause modules to power down, resulting in CAN timeout errors)
Visually inspect the wiring harness along the entire bus path between the EEM3 controller and the instrument panel/DCU for rub points or disconnected plugs
Disconnect modules one by one to isolate the fault and see if a specific shorted module is pulling down the entire CAN network
Repair steps
Power Down
Turn off the tractor and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical spikes.
Access the Harness
Locate the main engine-to-cab CAN wiring harness, focusing on the connections at the EEM3 (Engine ECU) and the DCU/SCR module.
Inspect and Clean Connectors
Disconnect the harness plugs. Look for pushed-back pins, corrosion, or moisture intrusion. Clean the contacts with electrical contact cleaner and ensure the pins have proper tension.
Repair Wiring
If you find chafed wires (a common issue where the harness routes near the engine block or transmission housing), cut out the damaged section, solder in new wire, and seal it with heat-shrink tubing.
Replace Faulty Components
If the wiring tests perfectly but a specific module (like the NOx sensor or DCU) is internally shorted and corrupting the CAN signal, replace the offending module.
Reassemble and Clear Codes
Reconnect all modules and the battery. Turn the key to the ON position. Connect your AGCO EDT or compatible diagnostic tool and clear the inactive fault codes.
Test Run
Start the tractor and monitor the live CAN voltage and dashboard to ensure the communication is restored and the codes do not return.
Parts you might need
(6)Engine / Cab CAN Wiring Harness
ACW005780Applies to the 5700 SL series with Tier 4F engines; exact part numbers will vary by tractor model. Must match the specific cab and engine emissions tier.
Engine / Cab CAN Wiring Harness
ACW005784Applies to the 5700 SL series with Tier 4F engines; exact part numbers will vary by tractor model. Must match the specific cab and engine emissions tier.
Engine / Cab CAN Wiring Harness
4392642Applies to the 5700 SL series with Tier 4F engines; exact part numbers will vary by tractor model. Must match the specific cab and engine emissions tier.
Main Relay (12V)
Often responsible for powering the EEM3/DCU; if it fails, it triggers CAN timeouts.
Dosing Control Unit (DCU)
Required only if the module itself has suffered an internal hardware failure and cannot communicate on the bus.
Engine Control Module (EEM3)
Required only if the module itself has suffered an internal hardware failure and cannot communicate on the bus.
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