NGS Basics

 
 

The Ranger EV uses two module communication networks.


  1. 1. J1850 (SCP) network (two-way communication during normal vehicle operation) used by the Battery Controller Module (BCM), Interface Adapter Assembly (IAA) module, and Traction Inverter Module (TIM).

  2. 2. International Standards Organization (ISO) 9141 network communication used by the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module, central timer module (CTM), and electronic crash sensor (ECS) module operates air bag system.


The SCP network is the one we’re primarily interested in here.

Ranger EV Data Links

Using the NGS tester is easy, using it correctly in a systematic fashion to  successfully diagnose and test your Ranger EV to solve a problem takes a little more discipline.

The Ranger EV Student Guide Diagnostic section begins, “New Generation STAR (NGS) Tester is essential to Ranger EV diagnosis. While technicians are familiar with NGS tester use on conventional vehicles, the Program Card for the Ranger EV has unique features....” and requires a systematic approach to use it successfully to evaluate and troubleshoot problems.

Before starting to collect Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), read Section 100-07-XX of the Workshop Manual.  (If you haven’t read the part about how your truck can KILL YOU.....stop and go read the manual again!)

NGS Tester and DTC Code Retrieval Intro

Using the NGS tester to collect DTCs involves 6 steps in this order:

  1. 1.Test the Diagnostic Link

  2. 2.Check IAA for Continuous DTCs

  3. 3.Check IAA with the Self-Test for On-Demand DTCs

  4. 4.Check TIM for Continuous DTCs

  5. 5.Check BCM for Continuous DTCs

  6. 6.Check BCM with the Self-Test for On-Demand DTCs

  7. Note: The TIM does not have a Self-Test feature.


Look at Work Shop Manual Section 100-07 pages 4 and 5 for details. See NGS Testing Procedure for the sample sequence I use.

NGS Testing of the SCP Network/ DTC Retrieval

The NGS tester can perform a number of tests, but just to get started, it can test your Ranger EVs Data Links to make sure they’re working properly, and then allow you to get:


  1. BulletParameter Identification Data (PIDs) - The PIDs are how you check or monitor to see if your traction battery is fully charged (BAT_SOC), what operating mode the battery control module is in (BCM_OP), or what the voltage is on a particular battery module (BAT_MV), etc.

  2. BulletActive Command Modes - The ACM menu will enable you to activate certain components of a vehicle system. This can save time by determining if the source of the problem is in the component, or in the signaling system that activates it. For example, the Central Timing Unit Active Command Menu allows you to command on the windshield wiper. If the NGS can activate the wiper, the problem is likely in the wiper switch or circuits. If not, the wiper motor may need repair.

  3. BulletDiagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) - DTCs identify problems that occur in systems monitored and controlled by the IAA, BCM or TIM. They aid in identifying and correcting a wide range of problems specific to the Ranger EV. A complete listing of DTCs and diagnostic procedures associated with each are in the Ranger EV Workshop Manual.

NGS Tester Basics