New Holland 3873 – ECU: Timeout of CAN message TSC1-TE passive

This code indicates a Controller Area Network (CAN) communication failure where the Engine Control Unit has timed out while waiting to receive the 'TSC1-TE' (Torque/Speed Control 1 - Traction to Engine / Transmission to Engine) message. As a result, the engine is no longer receiving the expected torque or speed synchronization commands from the transmission or traction control system.

• New Holland T6000 Series
• T6010
• T6020
• T6050
• New Holland T7 Series
• New Holland T8 Series

1. 1

   Check for companion CAN timeout codes (such as 3874 TSC1-AR, 3875 TSC1-DR, or 3876 TSC1-TR) to determine if the entire CAN bus network is down rather than a single module failing.

2. 2

   Verify the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) is receiving proper power and ground, as it cannot broadcast the TSC1-TE message if it does not power on.

3. 3

   Perform a CAN Bus Resistance Test at the diagnostic port with batteries disconnected. A healthy CAN bus should read approximately 60 ohms (120 ohms indicates an open circuit or failed terminating resistor; 0 ohms indicates a short).

4. 4

   Visually inspect the wiring harness running between the Engine ECU and the Transmission/Vehicle Control Module for chafing, rodent damage, or melted insulation.

1. 1

   Disconnect power

   Disconnect the negative battery cable before servicing the CAN network.

2. 2

   Inspect connectors

   Disconnect the main harness connectors at both the Engine ECU and the TCU. Inspect for pushed-out pins, corrosion, or moisture intrusion. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if necessary.

3. 3

   Repair wiring

   If the resistance test indicated a short or an open circuit, trace the CAN High and CAN Low wires between the ECU and TCU. Repair any broken wires using an approved CAN bus repair kit (twisted pair wiring is required to prevent electromagnetic interference).

4. 4

   Replace terminating resistor

   If the bus resistance measured 120 ohms and the wiring is intact, locate and replace the failed 120-ohm CAN terminating resistor.

5. 5

   Reprogram or replace module

   If the wiring harness, connectors, and resistors all test perfectly, the fault lies internally within either the TCU (failing to send) or the ECU (failing to receive). The suspect module will need to be reflashed with the New Holland Electronic Service Tool (EST) or replaced entirely.

6. 6

   Clear codes

   Reconnect the batteries, turn the key to the ON position, and use a diagnostic tool to clear the inactive 3873 fault code. Run the machine to verify the code does not return.