TOPICS

Cummins

Before late 2005, Cummins engines did not contain an EDR unless the aftermarket RoadRelay system was added. However, after late 2005, Cummins engines for “over the road” trucks can contain event data. By 2006, most of these engines contain EDR capability. Cummins engines for “over the road” trucks include the ISM and ISX/Signature motors.

Cummins ISX and ISM engines made between 2001 and 2005 can be re-calibrated by an authorized service center using the Cummins INCAL program. After re-calibration, it is possible that these older engines will be updated to contain an EDR.

Smaller Cummins engines (ISL, ISC, ISB) can also contain an EDR if they were built or calibrated after late 2007. When dealing with a crash or mishap involving a late model Cummins engine, the safest course of action is to download the ECM. This is the only sure method of determining whether or not an EDR function is present.

The Cummins ECM contains the three most recent “Sudden Deceleration Events.” These events are triggered when the wheel speed changes, either decelerating or accelerating by 9 miles per hour in one second. Each event contains one minute of data before the incident and 15 seconds of data after the incident.

The Cummins ECM captures the following data elements in one-second intervals:

• Wheel speed (mph)
• Engine speed (rpm)
• Engine load (percent)
• Throttle position (percent)
• Brake status (on/off)
• Clutch status (on/off)
• Cruise control status (on/off)
• Lamp status (on/off)

• Sample Sudden Deceleration Event (PDF)
• Example index of available Cummins data (PDF)

It is important to note that Cummins engines require two separate software packages to extract all the electronic data in the ECM. These are Insite, which downloads engine settings, vehicle parameters, audit and maintenance data; and PowerSpec, which downloads Sudden Deceleration data and vehicle parameters.

« Previous Topic | Next Topic »