Detroit Diesel Electronic Control System Operation

Detroit™ Gen 5 Heavy Duty engines are equipped with Detroit Diesel Electronic Control® (DDEC®) software. This software assures optimal engine performance. The installation of software upgrades may cause minor changes in features and engine performance.

During normal operation the DDEC ® system requires 12 volts to operate. However, in the event of a power supply malfunction, the system will continue to operate at reduced voltage. When this occurs, the Check Engine Indicator will be activated. The engine will only operate at reduced rpm until the battery voltage reaches a point where DDEC ® will no longer function and the engine shuts down.

The engine and powertrain operation is monitored and controlled via a series of sensors, electronic valves, solenoids and switches. The system has three to four control modules; four if equipped with a Detroit Transmission:

• Common Powertrain Controller (CPC)

• Motor Control Module (MCM)

• Aftertreatment Control Module (ACM)

• Transmission Control Module (TCM)

The four control modules are connected by a proprietary datalink through which all necessary data and information can be exchanged.