MAN 650314:D
29
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
This is a list of some problems and their solutions which may be encountered when installing your
instrumentation system. If you cannot determine what the problem is or how to solve it, please call our
technical assistance line (605) 332-6513 or email dakotasupport@dakotadigital.com.
* A note on vehicle grounding *
The most common cause of problems with electric gauges and other sensitive vehicle electronics
is poor ground connections. The engine block has the highest ground currents of any point in the vehicle.
The ignition system, electric gauge senders, starter, alternator, etc. all use the engine block for a ground
point. Since the alternator is grounded directly to the engine block, all ground currents in the entire vehicle
must pass through the engine block while the engine is running. A weak or loose connection can cause
many unexpected problems that may be difficult to track down. The engine block should have heavy
ground straps to both the chassis and the body. The main negative cable from the battery should be
connected directly to the engine block.
Symptom
Possible Problem
Solution
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System does not turn on
Control box may not be getting
Check if the control box always has
and status LED is off.
power.
12 volts connected to it’s constant
power terminal and 12v to ACC power
terminal when the key is on.
Control box may not be getting
Check if the control box has
a ground.
a proper ground connection.
Do not use a battery charger to
power the system.
The control box may have
Contact Dakota Digital’s service
an internal problem
department with a description of
the problem.
System does not turn on
Constant power connected but
Check connection at ACC power
and LED flashes once
no ignition signal at ACC power
terminal. There should be 12v when
every 4 seconds.
terminal.
key is on, and 0v when key is off.
System does not turn on
Control box may be getting too
Check if power to control box is
and LED is on steady.
low of a voltage.
at least 11 volts.
Do not use a battery charger to
power the system.
System does not turn on
The display system may not be
Check the patch cable between
the
and LED is flashing.
getting power.
display system and control box.
Be sure the connectors are plugged in
control box and display securely.
Check the display system wiring
harness for broken or cut wires.
The tachometer will not
The control box is not connected
Make sure the control box is
show a reading.
to the engine properly
connected to your particular
ignition system properly.
The tachometer signal wire is
Check the connections at both
loose or broken.
ends of the wire.
The engine cylinder setting is
Refer to the tach setup section
incorrect.
of the installation manual.
The tach signal setting is
Refer to the tach setup section
incorrect.
of the installation manual.
Summary of Contents for VHX-66C-NOV
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