Road Test - Step 9
RECREATING THE SYMPTOM/CONTINUOUS MEMORY DTCIn order to diagnose a driveability concern, information must be collected on how the EEC system is operating. After visual/mechanical checks are completed and satisfied, the EEC portion of the symptom or continuous memory DTC chart must be diagnosed. Through the use of monitor and recorder, these signal lines can be inspected for shorts, opens, component failures, or erratic behavior. In addition, the information from the monitor and recorder can reveal the presence of mechanical problems.
ROAD TEST SET-UP
1. Place monitor (recorder also, if installed) in convenient location inside the vehicle. Secure cables away from moving engine parts.
2. Check to see if the proper overlay card is inserted on monitor.
3. Copy list of EEC sensors and actuators in order given by symptom or continuous memory DTC charts. These signals will be monitored during the road test.
4. If a recorder is used, then select the first 8 signals listed in the symptom or continuous memory DTC charts for channels 1 to 8. Connect the jumpers from the I/O jacks to the appropriate channels.
5. Select the proper typical diagnostic reference value sheet. This sheet lists EEC sensor and actuator values at various operating conditions. The values given on these sheets are only an approximation.
6. In order for a road test to be performed, it is required that another person accompany the driver. That person can select signals, observe changes, and record notes.
USE OF PERIPHERAL INPUTS
Some useful signals which are listed in the symptom or continuous memory DTC charts may require the use of certain peripherals. These devices can be inserted into the AUX input jacks of the monitor or the ADAPT 1/ADAPT 2 input jacks of the recorder. Listed below are two types of peripherals and examples of the signals they receive.
Multi-Point Auxiliary Adapter -- A/C, Fuel Pump
Electronic Fuel Pressure/Vacuum Adapter -- Fuel Pressure, Vacuum
ROAD TEST REMINDERS
The purpose of the road test is to recreate the drive symptom or continuous memory DTC by duplicating the conditions that caused it to occur. The road test is a suggested, but optional, part of diagnosis. It is important that the road test is performed safely. Use seat belts and operate the vehicle in a safe manner.
ROAD TEST OBSERVATIONS
During the road test, various EEC signals are chosen and their values shown. In addition to this data, certain observations can be made as the road test is performed:
EEC Values. Compare road test values at various operating conditions with those listed in the typical diagnostic reference values.
Monitor Lights. Observation of the monitor lights give quick information about the condition of many EEC signals. For example, these lights can quickly reveal the general status of many signals and tell whether a solenoid or switch is activated. Optional signals are printed in yellow labels.
Wiggle Testing. By using the monitor wiggle test in KOER, often an intermittent device or wire will trigger the beeper. The DCV wiggle mode is sensitive to sudden, erratic changes in an EEC harness or component.
ROAD TEST PROCEDURE
1. Using the appropriate symptom or continuous memory DTC chart, select the first listed EEC device on monitor PIN SELECTOR A.
2. Turn on monitor and recorder, if used. Start and drive vehicle.
3. If recorder is installed, put FUNCTION switch in RECORD mode and press START RECORD button.
4. Drive vehicle to create conditions in which the symptom occurs.
5. When the symptom occurs, the passenger should observe changes in selected EEC signal. Information should be recorded with other specific notes about the symptom, device, or operating conditions. If the recorder is used, the CAPTURE button should be pressed.
6. Record information about the symptom, operating condition, and value of the EEC signal from the monitor or recorder (in PLAYBACK mode).
7. If necessary, select other EEC signals from the symptom or continuous memory DTC chart and attempt to recreate the symptom or DTC again. Observe and record the results. Continue to STEP 10 and analyze the data collected during the road test. Analyzing Data - Step 10