What is John Deere E240LC Fault Code 000107.31?

Fault Code 000107.31 indicates a voltage irregularity (below normal or shorted to ground) in the swing motor brake solenoid circuit on the John Deere E240LC excavator. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is triggered when the Electronic Control Module (ECM) detects an electrical signal outside the expected range for the swing brake solenoid valve, which controls the engagement and disengagement of the swing motor brake system.

The swing motor brake is critical for safe upper structure positioning and operator control. When this circuit malfunctions, the ECM may limit machine functionality to prevent unsafe operation. On used excavators, this code often points to wiring harness deterioration, connector corrosion, or solenoid coil failure—issues common in machines with extensive operating hours in harsh environments.

Common Symptoms

Operators may experience the following when Code 000107.31 is active:

• Swing function warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster or monitor display
• Reduced swing speed or complete loss of swing motor operation as the ECM enters protective mode
• Abnormal swing brake engagement, causing jerky or uncontrolled stopping of the upper structure
• Intermittent swing function, particularly when the machine is cold or after extended operation
• Master warning alarm accompanied by the fault code display on compatible diagnostic screens

Potential Causes

The most common technical reasons for this fault code on used John Deere E240LC excavators include:

• Damaged wiring harness near the swing motor assembly, where cables experience repeated flexing and abrasion against the rotating platform
• Corroded or loose electrical connectors at the swing brake solenoid valve due to moisture infiltration
• Failed swing brake solenoid coil, resulting from thermal stress or internal short circuits
• Chafed wires at known rub points near the center joint and hydraulic lines
• ECM internal fault (rare) or poor grounding connections at the swing motor mounting bracket
• Voltage supply issues from the main power harness or blown fuses protecting the solenoid circuit

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Code 000107.31

Step 1: Visual Inspection Begin by thoroughly inspecting the wiring harness from the ECM to the swing brake solenoid valve. On used excavators, pay special attention to areas where the harness passes through the center joint and along the swing motor housing. Look for frayed insulation, exposed copper, or signs of harness contact with moving parts or hot surfaces.

Step 2: Connector and Ground Testing Disconnect the solenoid connector and inspect pins for corrosion, bent contacts, or moisture. Clean with electrical contact cleaner if necessary. Using a digital multimeter (DMM), verify ground continuity by measuring resistance between the solenoid mounting bracket and chassis ground—readings should be below 1 ohm.

Step 3: Solenoid Resistance Check With the connector disconnected, measure the solenoid coil resistance across its terminals. Typical specifications range from 8-15 ohms (consult your service manual for exact values). Readings significantly outside this range indicate a failed solenoid requiring replacement.

Step 4: Circuit Voltage Testing Reconnect the solenoid and back-probe the connector using your DMM. With the ignition on and the swing function activated, verify the supply voltage reaches approximately 12-14 volts. No voltage indicates an upstream wiring issue or ECM fault; fluctuating voltage suggests intermittent connection problems.

Step 5: Advanced Diagnostics Connect John Deere Service Advisor or compatible diagnostic software to monitor real-time solenoid command signals and actual circuit response. This helps distinguish between ECM command failures and physical circuit problems. Clear codes after repairs and perform operational tests under load.

For used machines, always replace worn harness sections with proper loom protection and apply dielectric grease to connectors to prevent future corrosion.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general troubleshooting information. Always consult the official John Deere service manual for your specific machine serial number and seek professional assistance from certified technicians for complex electrical diagnostics and repairs.