GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The transfer case encoder motor has a bi-directional, permanent magnet, D.C. motor. When energized, (through Motor Control A or Motor Control B, the ground is provided by the opposing motor control circuit and then grounded through the transfer case shift control module ground circuit), the motor, through a series of gears, rotates a shaft which moves the mode and range forks to shift the transfer case between 4H, 2HI, and 4L ranges.

This DTC detects a short or open in the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 1640), ground circuit, an internal short in the motor windings and related circuitry, or an internal transfer case shift control module failure.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

In the event that one of the motor control circuits is energized (battery voltage is applied) the transfer case shift control module will energize the other motor control circuit to keep the motor from running. All switch indicator lamps will flash continuously to prompt the driver that service is required. The transfer case system will be disabled and the transfer case shift control module will remain energized even with the ignition in the OFF position.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The condition for setting the DTC is no longer present and a momentary loss of battery power at the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 40).

Diagnostic Aids

When the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission the clutch pedal must be depressed and working correctly in order for the transfer case to shift to the 4 low position. In order to confirm that it is operating correctly go the engine data 1 screen under the engine data display and observe the clutch pedal switch parameter.

Test Description

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

  1. This step tests the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 1640) for an open or high resistance.

  2. This step inspects the ATC fuse for an open.

  3. This step tests the ground circuit.

  4. This step tests the Motor Control A and B circuits.

DTC 3 -- TCCM Motor Circuit

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Important: Check the transfer case shift control module for DTCs. The transfer case shift control module is not a class 2 device. DTCs are displayed on the transfer case shift control switch. Use the following four steps to obtain DTCs.

  1. Turn OFF the ignition for 10 seconds.
  2. Connect PIN 13 on the data link cable (DLC) to a ground. The DLC is located in the cab under the instrument panel on the driver's side.
  3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  4. Observe the transfer case shift control switch select buttons for flashing codes.

Did you perform A Diagnostic System Check - Transfer Case?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check

2

  1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  2. Backprobe and measure battery positive voltage (CKT 1640) at the transfer case shift control module.

Does the voltage measure near the specified value?

B+

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 3

3

Inspect the ATC Fuse 20A.

Is the fuse blown?

--

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

Repair the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 1640) for an open or high resistance. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Step 11

--

5

Repair the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 1640) for a short to voltage or short to ground. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Replace the ATC Fuse.

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Step 11

--

6

Connect a test lamp from the battery positive voltage circuit (CKT 1640) to the ground circuit at the transfer case shift control module.

Does the test lamp illuminate?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

7

Repair the ground circuit for an open or high resistance. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Step 11

--

8

  1. Backprobe and measure voltage at the transfer case shift control module between the transfer case motor control A circuit and the transfer case motor control B circuit.
  2. Press the 4HI then 4LO on the shift control switch.
  3. The DMM should read +12V in one direction and -12V in the other direction.

Does the voltage measure near the specified value?

+12V/-12V

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 10

9

Repair the open or high resistance in the transfer case motor control A or B circuits. Refer to General Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. If OK, replace the transfer case encoder motor. Refer to Motor/Encoder Replacement .

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Step 11

--

10

Replace the transfer case shift control module. Refer to Transfer Case Shift Control Module Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 11

--

11

  1. Clear all DTCs from memory. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Clearing .
  2. Operate the vehicle while pressing each of the buttons on the transfer case shift control switch.

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK