P260C: PTO Control Circuit High

What it means

Voltage on the PTO engagement control line is above the expected window. Typical causes are a short to battery or an open solenoid coil.

At a glance

• Usually lights the check-engine light

How it works

The PTO engagement control circuit operates a solenoid that connects an engine-driven accessory on equipped commercial vehicles. The controller monitors the line voltage and sets P260C when it is higher than expected, which can result from a short to battery voltage or an open solenoid coil. The PTO may not engage, and the indicator may not show its state correctly.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Control wire shorted to a B+ supply
2. Open solenoid coil
3. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance

Symptoms

• Check-engine light
• PTO may not engage
• PTO indicator may not reflect PTO operation

How to diagnose it

1. Check scan-tool PTO command and status data to establish whether the high reading occurs during a PTO engagement request.
2. With the vehicle secured, inspect the control wire and solenoid connector for contact with a battery feed, damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
3. Following the manufacturer's isolation procedure, test the control wire for a short to B+.
4. Check the PTO solenoid coil for an open circuit using the manufacturer's test procedure.
5. If the wire and coil pass, test the control circuit during a command to locate the source of the high voltage.

Common fixes

• Repair the control wire if it is shorted to a battery supply.
• Clean and secure corroded or loose PTO circuit connections.
• Replace the PTO solenoid if its coil is open.
• Repair the circuit fault identified by the manufacturer's electrical tests.

Can I keep driving?

You can usually drive if the PTO is not needed and the vehicle operates normally, but do not depend on PTO equipment. Confirm the PTO is disengaged before driving or servicing attached equipment.