Broken DEF Header and possible workaround

[Jim]

Didn’t you also have a SPN 3363? I’ve lost track at this point but that is the common code for this problem.
Edit - I clicked the link and 1713 is the Cummins code for SPN 3363 FMI 16. I’m a little slow this morning….So for those using the LBCU or typical code readers to view fault codes, you’ll see SPN 3363 and one of several possible FMI codes depending on the specifics.

Yes, Fault Code: 1713 PID: SPN: 3363 Aftertreatment Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Tank Heater

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

Excellent thread, Jim. I think I know what I'll be doing tomorrow.

 

[flyboy013]

“Obviously the right answer is to replace the OEM valve just in case you will be driving in freezing temperatures”

You can’t just replace the OEM valve because its part of the DEF header.

While I'm not an expert here, from what I understand the DEF heater valve is upstream of the DEF head. It's not internal to the DEF head.

 

[flyboy013]

@Jim - Here's the Cummins QuickServe document for the fault code. It talks about the valve that's upsteam of the DEF Header.

The diesel exhaust fluid tank heater control valve is located near the diesel exhaust fluid tank. Specific location will vary depending on the OEM. The tank heating coil is internal to the diesel exhaust fluid tank.

 

[Jim]

@Jim - Here's the Cummins QuickServe document for the fault code. It talks about the valve that's upsteam of the DEF Header.

I'm not sure where it would be if it isn't part of the DEF header itself. But even if it wasn't, keeping the heated engine coolant from entering the DEF header, and thus not heating the DEF, is what we're trying to achieve. And bypassing the DEF header altogether achieves that.

Or am I not understanding the question?

 

[flyboy013]

No. You're on the right track. Was sort of answering an earlier post about the location of the control valve.

 

[Rich W.]

@Jim - Here's the Cummins QuickServe document for the fault code. It talks about the valve that's upsteam of the DEF Header.

Right - could be either and they are typically remotely located on trucks. Maybe on 2016 and later emissions system coaches as well? And of course Spartan and FL systems are different. I don’t know - learn something new every day, or at least try to. Thanks for pointing that out.

The shop that diagnosed Jim’s wanted to sell him a complete DEF header job - maybe they could have just replaced the $40 valve but there wasn’t enough money in doing it that way? Or maybe they wanted to replace both? I don’t know but the valve is prone to failure and that leads to derating (and thus potentially being stranded again with all that entails) and a new one wouldn’t be any less prone to failure, so I lean towards a manual valve or bypass.

If I were transiting the Dakotas or similar this time of year I’d want it operating as delivered (and for trucks it makes perfect sense) with both “maintenance” and “defrost” modes functional. My plan is to avoid colder climes so a manual valve doesn’t even seem necessary, and Jim’s version of the mod would do just fine. I’ve also enclosed the compartment where my tank is located so its less prone to freezing.

 

[Jim]

It's been 3 months since I made this modification, so I figured I should update the outcome. Since the modification, I have driven across Florida, through Georgia, and up into North Carolina. All with -0- issues.

I'll probably install a gate valve so that I can direct the heated coolant through the DEF Header in those few cases I might be driving in colder weather. But at this time, I have no intentions of spending a couple grand to replace the DEF header just to repair the internal broken valve.

 

[Rich W.]

It's been 3 months since I made this modification, so I figured I should update the outcome. Since the modification, I have driven across Florida, through Georgia, and up into North Carolina. All with -0- issues.

I'll probably install a gate valve so that I can direct the heated coolant through the DEF Header in those few cases I might be driving in colder weather. But at this time, I have no intentions of spending a couple grand to replace the DEF header just to repair the internal broken valve.

Good to hear. It’s always nice to see one of these situations resolved sensibly and economically. And I somehow doubt you’ll do much driving below 12°F.

 

[MemoriesByTheMile]

Neal, I guess this means you can count Jim as a non-participant in next winter’s wonderland tour.

 

[Neal]

Neal, I guess this means you can count Jim as a non-participant in next winter’s wonderland tour.

That's a shame as you know my "frozen" RV tours book up fast. How's my marketing doing so far? Raise pant legs...

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

That's a shame as you know my "frozen" RV tours book up fast. How's my marketing doing so far? Raise pant legs...

I'm sorry to have to inform you, we won't be able to make it this winter. I signed up before mentioning it to my wife, do I need to say anything further? Move someone off the waitlist. I'm just heartbroken knowing I won't be able to show off my driving skills on ice-covered roads.

 

[sheridany]

 

[Texas Clodhopper]

I wonder how many sled dogs would I need?

 

[Neal]

I wonder how many sled dogs would I need?

You’re not handling the change of plans well. I’ll pencil you in for next year. FOMO is real.