What is Hitachi ZX210LC-5G-HCMC Fault Code 14107-2?

Fault Code 14107-2 indicates a malfunction in the Engine Control Module (ECM) communication circuit, specifically related to CAN (Controller Area Network) bus communication errors or data transmission failures between the engine ECM and the machine's main controller. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is triggered when the excavator's electronic control systems detect abnormal or interrupted signal transmission on the CAN network.

In the Hitachi ZX210LC-5G-HCMC excavator, the CAN bus serves as the critical communication backbone connecting the engine ECM, hydraulic controller, monitor display, and various sensors throughout the machine. When Code 14107-2 appears, it means the ECM cannot properly send or receive data packets, which compromises the integrated control system's ability to optimize engine performance, monitor emissions, and coordinate hydraulic functions. This is particularly critical for Tier 4 Final/Stage V compliant engines like those in the ZX210LC-5G series, where precise ECM communication is essential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) operation.

Common Symptoms

• Warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster, often accompanied by a "Check Engine" or communication error icon
• Reduced engine power or derate mode activation, limiting maximum RPM to protect the engine
• Erratic or frozen monitor display readings, with incorrect temperature, pressure, or hour meter data
• Intermittent loss of hydraulic responsiveness due to disrupted coordination between engine and hydraulic controllers
• Inability to perform DPF regeneration or SCR system malfunctions, potentially triggering additional fault codes

Potential Causes

The most common technical causes for Code 14107-2 on used Hitachi ZX210LC-5G-HCMC excavators include:

• Damaged or corroded CAN bus wiring harness, particularly at known rub points near the engine mounting brackets and along the right-hand chassis rail
• Loose or oxidized connector pins at the ECM harness connector (C101) or the main machine controller connector
• Failed termination resistors (120-ohm) at either end of the CAN network, causing signal reflection and communication errors
• ECM internal circuit failure, more common in machines with high operating hours (>8,000 hours) or exposure to moisture intrusion
• Voltage supply issues to the ECM, including poor grounding at the engine block ground point or battery connection problems
• Aftermarket component interference, such as improperly installed monitoring systems or non-OEM accessories tapping into the CAN network

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Code 14107-2

Step 1: Visual Inspection and Connector Check Begin by thoroughly inspecting the main engine wiring harness from the ECM (located on the right side of the engine) to the machine controller under the operator's cab. On used excavators, pay special attention to harness routing near the engine mounts and hydraulic pump area where vibration-induced chafing commonly occurs. Disconnect the ECM connector (C101) and inspect all pins for corrosion, bent contacts, or moisture intrusion—clean with electronic contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease before reconnecting.

Step 2: CAN Bus Electrical Testing Using a digital multimeter (DMM), measure the resistance between CAN-High and CAN-Low terminals at the ECM connector with all power off and connectors disconnected. You should read approximately 60 ohms, indicating both 120-ohm termination resistors are present and functional. Next, with the key switch on (engine off), measure voltage on the CAN-High line (typically 2.5-3.5V) and CAN-Low line (typically 1.5-2.5V). Significant deviation suggests termination resistor failure or short circuits in the harness.

Step 3: Advanced Diagnostics with Factory Software Connect Hitachi Dr.EX diagnostic software (or equivalent dealer-level tool) to the machine's diagnostic port. Monitor live CAN bus traffic and check for message error rates. Error rates above 5% indicate communication instability. Use the software to perform an ECM reset and clear adaptive parameters, as corrupted memory in used machines can sometimes cause persistent communication faults. If errors persist, perform a harness continuity test using the software's guided diagnostics, which will isolate whether the fault lies in wiring, connectors, or the ECM itself.

Step 4: Component Replacement Protocol For used excavators, always verify harness integrity before replacing the ECM, as the engine wiring harness (part number varies by serial number) fails more frequently than the controller itself. If harness testing confirms integrity and termination resistors test correctly, ECM replacement may be necessary—ensure the replacement unit is programmed with the correct software calibration matching your machine's serial number and emissions specification. After any repairs, perform a CAN bus communication test using diagnostic software to confirm error-free operation before returning the machine to service.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general troubleshooting information for experienced technicians. Always consult the official Hitachi service manual for your specific machine serial number, and consider engaging a certified Hitachi dealer for complex electrical diagnostics. Improper repairs to electronic control systems can result in further damage or safety hazards.