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Engine Controls - 6.0L - Alternative Fuels (Troubleshooting): Overview Chevrolet Silverado 3500

Symptoms - Engine Controls

Important Preliminary ChecksAction
Before performing Symptom diagnosisBefore performing Symptom based diagnosis you must perform the Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls) . The System Check will determine the following: The FICM, PCM and the MIL are operating correctly. There are no DTCs stored. Scan tool data is within normal operating range. Several of the Symptom diagnostic tables require that a Visual and Physical Check be performed. Always perform a Visual and Physical Check before using a Symptom diagnostic table.
Visual and Physical ChecksInspect the FICM and PCM ground connections for being clean, tight and in the correct location. Inspect the PCM for the correct CNG calibration. Program the PCM if necessary. Inspect the vacuum hoses for leaks, restrictions and proper connection as shown on the vehicle emission control information (VECI) label. Inspect for any type of fuel leak or fuel line restriction. Inspect for air leaks at all areas of the intake manifold sealing surfaces. Inspect the ignition wires for the following conditions: Cracking Hardness Proper routing Carbon tracking Inspect vehicle wiring for the following: Proper connection Pinches Cuts
SymptomsVerify the customer concern. Locate the Symptom table that indicates the customers concern. Test or Inspect for the items indicated for that symptom. The following Symptom tables are located in this section: Intermittent Conditions Hard Start Surges/Chuggles Lack of Power, Sluggishness, or Sponginess Hesitation, Sag, Stumble Cuts Out, Misses Poor Fuel Economy Poor Fuel Fill Quality Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling Dieseling, Run-On Backfire

Important Preliminary Checks

System Description

The powertrain control module (PCM) controls the fuel system while the vehicle is operating on CNG. The PCM receives signals from various engine sensors and determines the correct amount of fuel required by the engine. The fuel is stored in a cylindrical fuel tank. A full tank can contain fuel at 24,820 kPa (3,600 psi). A high pressure lock-off (HPL) solenoid in the tank and a low pressure lock-off (LPL) solenoid in the fuel line prevent fuel flow. The PCM commands ONLY the HPL open for 1 second at every ignition ON for a CNG prime pulse. The CNG prime pulse is performed in order to charge the fuel line and also allows the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor to monitor the amount of fuel pressure in the tank. The PCM commands BOTH the HPL and the LPL open when engine RPM indicates the engine is cranking or running on CNG.

This fuel delivery system utilizes two different pressure stages in order to lower the fuel pressure from tank pressure down to an injector delivery pressure.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 2: This step verifies that the HPL solenoid and the FTP sensor are functioning. If the HPL solenoid is not functioning or if the manual tank valve is closed the dispensing station will charge only the fuel lines with pressure. Cranking or starting the engine will cause this pressure to decrease rapidly.
  2. 3: This step verifies the fuel rail pressure (FRP) sensor is displaying the correct fuel pressure.
  3. 4: This step tests for a leak in the fuel system between the LPL, and the fuel injectors. The fuel pressure should remain constant during the test.
  4. 5: This step tests the HPR output pressure. If the fuel pressure is within the specified values, then the HPR, fuel lines, and filters are OK.
  5. 6: This step tests the operation of the HPL.
  6. 8: This step tests the operation of the LPL.
  7. 15: This step verifies that a fuel filter is not the cause of the condition. If the fuel pressure is within the specified range after the fuel filter replacement, then a plugged filter was the cause of the condition.
StepActionValue(s)YesNo
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics
1Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check Alternative Fuels - Engine Controls?Go to Step 2Go to Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls)
2Connect the vehicle to a CNG dispensing station and verify that the CNG fuel tank is at least 1/3 full. Fill CNG fuel tank if necessary. Observe the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor data display with a scan tool. Attempt to start and idle the engine. Does the FTP sensor display a steady pressure at or above the specified value?8,274 kPa (1,200 psi)Go to Step 3Go to Step 6
3Attempt to start and idle the engine. Idle the engine until normal operating temperature is obtained. IMPORTANT: If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question. Observe and record the fuel rail pressure (FRP) sensor display with a scan tool. Compare the recorded scan tool display pressure values to the value range specified. Is the FRP sensor value within the specified range?276-345 kPa (40-50 psi)Go to Step 4Go to Step 8
4Turn OFF the ignition. Turn ON the ignition with the engine OFF. Monitor the FRP for 5 minutes. Does the FRP drop more than the specified value?21 kPa (3 psi)Go to Step 12Go to Step 5
5Turn OFF the ignition. Remove the dust cap from the intermediate pressure regulator (IPR) pressure test port. Using the components available within the J 39970 CNG Electronic Pressure Gage kit, install the transducer to the IPR test port. Connect the J 39970 to the J 39970-100 Fuel Test Port Adapter. Connect the J 39200 DMM to the J 39970 . Zero the J 39200 DMM using the procedure included with the J 39970 . IMPORTANT: If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question. Observe the fuel pressure with the DMM while cranking the engine. Idle the engine until normal operating temperature is obtained. IMPORTANT: Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective high pressure regulator (HPR) is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive. Observe and record the pressure indicated by the DMM at engine idle. Observe and record the pressure indicated by the DMM during engine load by performing the following steps: Apply the parking brake. Firmly apply and hold the brake pedal. Place the vehicle in forward gear. Observe the pressure while depressing the throttle to 75 percent or greater for a maximum of 10 seconds. Allow the engine to idle for a minimum of two minutes in order to cool the transmission. Compare the recorded pressure values to the value range specified. Are all of the fuel pressure values within the specified range?758-1,448 kPa (110-210 psi)Go to Intermittent ConditionsGo to Step 14
6Turn ON the ignition with the engine OFF. Command the high pressure lock-off (HPL) ON and OFF with a scan tool. Listen for operation of the HPL. Can operation of the HPL be heard?Go to Step 7Go to DTC P0005
7Remove the fuel tank cover. Refer to Fuel Tank Cover Replacement . Ensure the manual tank valve is fully open by turning the screw fully counter clockwise. Did you have to open the manual tank valve?Go to Step 2Go to Step 16
8Turn the ignition ON with the engine OFF. Command the low pressure lock-off (LPL) ON and OFF with a scan tool. Listen for operation of the LPL. Can operation of the LPL be heard?Go to Step 9Go to DTC P2665
9Turn OFF the ignition. Remove the dust cap from the IPR pressure test port. Using the components available within the J 39970 , install the transducer to the pressure test port. Connect the J 39970 to the J 39970-100 . Connect the J 39200 DMM to the J 39970 . Zero the J 39200 DMM using the procedure included with the J 39970 . IMPORTANT: If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question. Observe the fuel pressure with the DMM while cranking the engine. Idle the engine until normal operating temperature is obtained. IMPORTANT: Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective HPR is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive. Observe and record the pressure indicated by the DMM at engine idle. Compare the recorded pressure value to the value range specified. Is the pressure value within the specified range?758-1,448 kPa (110-210 psi)Go to Step 11Go to Step 10
10Is the fuel pressure greater than the specified value?1,448 kPa (210 psi)Go to Step 18Go to Step 14
11Turn the ignition ON with the engine OFF. Replace the FRP sensor. Refer to Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) Sensor Replacement . Attempt to start and idle the engine. Idle the engine until normal operating temperature is obtained. IMPORTANT: If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question. Observe and record the FRP sensor display with a scan tool. Compare the recorded scan tool display pressure values to the value range specified. Is the FRP sensor voltage within the specified value range?276-345 kPa (40-50 psi)Go to Step 19Go to Step 17
12Inspect for a fuel system leak between the LPL solenoid and the CNG fuel injectors. Replace any leaking components as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 19Go to Step 13
13Raise the CNG fuel rails, lines and injectors as an assembly. Refer to Fuel Rail Assembly Replacement (KL6) or Fuel Rail Assembly Replacement (KL8) . Command the LPL ON with a scan tool. Locate and replace the leaking CNG fuel injector. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 19
14Inspect the fuel line between the HPL and the HPR and the fuel line between the HPR and the LPL for the following: Kinks Bends Damage Obstruction-An obstructed fuel line may be cool or frosted near the obstruction when fuel flows through the line. Repair or replace components as necessary. Did you find and correct the condition?Go to Step 19Go to Step 15
15Relieve the CNG fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure . Replace the CNG in-line filter. Refer to Fuel Filter Replacement . Replace the HPR filter. Refer to High Pressure Regulator (HPR) Filter Replacement . IMPORTANT: If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question. Observe the fuel pressure with the DMM while cranking the engine. Idle the engine until normal operating temperature is obtained. IMPORTANT: Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective HPR is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive. Observe and record the pressure indicated by the DMM at engine idle. Observe and record the pressure indicated by the DMM during engine load by performing the following steps: Apply the parking brake. Firmly depress and hold the brake pedal. Place the vehicle in forward gear. Observe the pressure while depressing the throttle to 75 percent or greater for a maximum of 10 seconds. Allow the engine to idle for a minimum of two minutes in order to cool the transmission. Compare the recorded pressure values to the value range specified. Are all fuel pressure values within the specified range?758-1,448 kPa (110-210 psi)Go to Step 19Go to Step 18
16Replace the FTP sensor. Refer to Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 19
17Replace the IPR. Refer to Intermediate Pressure Regulator (IPR) Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 19
18Replace the HPR. Refer to High Pressure Regulator (HPR) Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 19
19Relieve the CNG fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure . Turn OFF the ignition. Remove all remaining test equipment. Install the IPR test port dust cap. Start and idle the engine. Inspect for CNG fuel system leaks with the J 45878 Combustible Gas Detector. Repair any leaks as necessary. Clear DTC information with a scan tool from the PCM. Turn the ignition OFF and wait 30 seconds. Start the engine and operate the vehicle. Observe the MIL. Observe vehicle performance and driveability. Does the vehicle operate on CNG with normal driveability and no MIL illumination?System OKGo to Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls)
IMPORTANT
If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question.
IMPORTANT
If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question.
IMPORTANT
Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective high pressure regulator (HPR) is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive.
IMPORTANT
If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question.
IMPORTANT
Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective HPR is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive.
IMPORTANT
If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question.
IMPORTANT
If the engine will not start on CNG use the pressure values observed during cranking and proceed directly to the Step question.
IMPORTANT
Rhythmic pressure fluctuation of 10-20 psi is normal. A defective HPR is not indicated unless the fluctuations become excessive.

Fuel System Diagnosis

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 3: This step tests each fuel injector resistance within a specific temperature range. If any of the fuel injectors display a resistance outside of the specified value, replace the fuel injector.
  2. 4: This step determines if all of the fuel injectors are within 0.5 ohms of each other. If the highest resistance value is within 0.5 ohms of the lowest resistance value, then all of the fuel injector coil windings are OK.
  3. 5: This step determines which fuel injector is faulty. After subtracting the highest and lowest resistance values from the average value, replace the fuel injector that has the greatest resistance difference from the average.
StepActionValuesYesNo
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics Connector End View Reference: Engine Controls Connector End Views
1Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check Alternative Fuels - Engine Controls?Go to Step 2Go to Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls)
2Observe the engine coolant temperature (ECT) with a scan tool. Is the ECT value within the specified range?10-32° C (50-90° F)Go to Step 3Go to Step 4
3NOTE: Use care in removing the fuel injectors in order to prevent damage to the fuel injector electrical connector pins or the fuel injector nozzles. Do not immerse the fuel injector in any type of cleaner. The fuel injector is an electrical component and may be damaged by this cleaning method. IMPORTANT: Calibrate the DMM and test leads to 0 Ohms in order to prevent misdiagnosis. Measure the resistance of each CNG fuel injector with a DMM. Refer to Testing for Continuity in Wiring Systems in the C/K Truck Service Manual.Do any of the fuel injectors display a resistance outside the specified range?1-2 ohmGo to Step 6Go to Diagnostic Aids
4NOTE: Use care in removing the fuel injectors in order to prevent damage to the fuel injector electrical connector pins or the fuel injector nozzles. Do not immerse the fuel injector in any type of cleaner. The fuel injector is an electrical component and may be damaged by this cleaning method. Measure the resistance of each CNG fuel injector with a DMM. Refer to Testing for Continuity in Wiring Systems in the C/K Truck Service Manual. Record each fuel injector value. Subtract the lowest resistance value from the highest resistance value. Is the difference equal to, or less than, the specified value?0.5 ohmGo to Diagnostic AidsGo to Step 5
5Add all of the CNG fuel injector resistance values, to obtain a total resistance value. Divide the total resistance value by the number of fuel injectors, to obtain an average resistance value. Subtract the lowest, and the highest, individual fuel injector resistance values from the average resistance value. Replace the CNG fuel injector that displays the greatest resistance difference, above or below the average. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 7
6Replace the fuel injector or fuel injectors that are out of the specified range. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 7
7Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition?System OKGo to Step 2
NOTE
Use care in removing the fuel injectors in order to prevent damage to the fuel injector electrical connector pins or the fuel injector nozzles. Do not immerse the fuel injector in any type of cleaner. The fuel injector is an electrical component and may be damaged by this cleaning method.
IMPORTANT
Calibrate the DMM and test leads to 0 Ohms in order to prevent misdiagnosis.
NOTE
Use care in removing the fuel injectors in order to prevent damage to the fuel injector electrical connector pins or the fuel injector nozzles. Do not immerse the fuel injector in any type of cleaner. The fuel injector is an electrical component and may be damaged by this cleaning method.

Fuel Injector Coil Test

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 3: The fuel pressure should be within the specified range. Refer to «Fuel System Diagnosis»(ref-184503-S02829456732005082300000) if the fuel pressure is not within the specified range.
  2. 5: If the pressure drop value for each fuel injector is within 14 kPa (2.0 psi) of the average pressure drop value, the fuel injectors are flowing properly. Calculate the pressure drop value for each fuel injector by subtracting the second pressure reading from the first pressure reading.
StepActionValuesYesNo
1Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check Alternative Fuels - Engine Controls?Go to Step 2Go to Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls)
2Did you perform the Fuel Injector Coil Test?Go to Step 3Go to Fuel Injector Coil Test
3Start and idle the engine. Observe the fuel rail pressure sensor parameter with a scan tool. Is the fuel pressure within the specified range?275-345 kPa (40-50 psiGo to Step 4Go to Fuel System Diagnosis
4Turn OFF the ignition. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. Monitor the fuel rail pressure sensor parameter with a scan tool. Does the fuel rail pressure remain constant?Go to Step 5Go to Fuel System Diagnosis
5NOTE: Do Not repeat any portion of this test before running the engine in order to prevent the engine from flooding. Turn OFF the ignition. Connect the J 39021 Fuel Injector Tester to a fuel injector. Set the amperage supply selector switch on the fuel injector tester to the Balance Test 0.5-2.5 amp position. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. Record the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel rail pressure sensor after the fuel pressure stabilizes. This is the first pressure reading. IMPORTANT: Record the fuel pressure value immediately after the CNG fuel injector stops pulsing. The fuel pressure may rise after the fuel injector stops pulsing. Do not record the higher fuel pressure value. Energize the CNG fuel injector by depressing the Push to Start Test button on the fuel injector tester. Record the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel rail pressure sensor. This is the second fuel pressure reading. Repeat steps 1 through 6 for each fuel injector. Subtract the second pressure reading from the first pressure reading for one fuel injector. The result is the pressure drop value. Obtain a pressure drop value for each fuel injector. Add all of the individual pressure drop values. This is the total pressure drop. Divide the total pressure drop by the number of fuel injectors. This is the average pressure drop. Does any fuel injector have a pressure drop value that is more than the average pressure drop or less than the average pressure drop by the specified value?14 kPa (2.0 psi)Go to Step 6Go to Symptoms - Engine Controls
6Replace the affected CNG fuel injector. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 7
7Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Does a driveability condition still exist?Go to Symptoms - Engine ControlsSystem OK
NOTE
Do Not repeat any portion of this test before running the engine in order to prevent the engine from flooding.
IMPORTANT
Record the fuel pressure value immediately after the CNG fuel injector stops pulsing. The fuel pressure may rise after the fuel injector stops pulsing. Do not record the higher fuel pressure value.

Fuel Injector Balance Test Procedure

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 3: The fuel pressure should be within the specified range. Refer to «Fuel System Diagnosis»(ref-184503-S02829456732005082300000) if the fuel pressure is not within the specified range.
  2. 4: The fuel pressure should reach a steady value. Refer to «Fuel System Diagnosis»(ref-184503-S02829456732005082300000) if the fuel pressure does not stabilize.
  3. 5: If the pressure drop value for each fuel injector is within 14 kPa (2.0 psi) of the average pressure drop value, the fuel injectors are flowing properly. Calculate the pressure drop value for each fuel injector by subtracting the second pressure reading from the first pressure reading.
StepActionValuesYesNo
1Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check Alternative Fuels - Engine Controls?Go to Step 2Go to Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls)
2Did you perform the Fuel Injector Coil Test?Go to Step 3Go to Fuel Injector Coil Test
3Start and idle the engine. Observe the fuel rail pressure sensor parameter with a scan tool. Is the fuel pressure within the specified range?275-345 kPa (40-50 psiGo to Step 4Go to Fuel System Diagnosis
4Turn OFF the ignition. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. Monitor the fuel rail pressure sensor parameter with a scan tool. Does the fuel rail pressure remain constant?Go to Step 5Go to Fuel System Diagnosis
5NOTE: Do Not repeat any portion of this test before running the engine in order to prevent the engine from flooding. With a scan tool, select the Fuel Injector Balance Test function, within the Special Functions menu. Select an injector to be tested. Press Enter. This will prime the fuel system. Record the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel pressure sensor after the fuel rail pressure stabilizes. This is the 1st pressure reading. IMPORTANT: Record the fuel pressure value immediately after the fuel injector stops pulsing. The fuel pressure may rise after the fuel injector stops pulsing. Do not record the higher fuel pressure value. Energize the fuel injector by depressing the Pulse Injector button on the scan tool. This will energize the injector and decrease the fuel pressure. Record the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel rail pressure sensor after the fuel injector has stopped pulsing. This is the 2nd pressure reading. Press Enter again to bring you back to the Select Injector screen. Repeat for each fuel injector. Subtract the 2nd pressure reading from the 1st pressure reading for one fuel injector. The result is the pressure drop value. Obtain a pressure drop value for each fuel injector. Add all of the individual pressure drop values. This is the total pressure drop. Divide the total pressure drop by the number of fuel injectors. This is the average pressure drop. Does any fuel injector have a pressure drop value that is either higher than the average pressure drop or lower than the average pressure drop by the specified value?14 kPa (2.0 psi)Go to Step 6Go to Symptoms - Engine Controls
6Replace the affected fuel injector. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?Go to Step 7
7Operate the vehicle in order to verify the repair. Does a driveability condition still exist?Go to Symptoms - Engine ControlsSystem OK
NOTE
Do Not repeat any portion of this test before running the engine in order to prevent the engine from flooding.
IMPORTANT
Record the fuel pressure value immediately after the fuel injector stops pulsing. The fuel pressure may rise after the fuel injector stops pulsing. Do not record the higher fuel pressure value.

Fuel Injector Balance Test Procedure