Kobelco SK200-8 Fault Code P0335: Complete Diagnostic Guide

What is Kobelco SK200-8 Fault Code P0335?

Fault Code P0335 indicates a Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit malfunction in the Kobelco SK200-8 excavator's engine control system. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) means the Engine Control Module (ECM) is not receiving a proper signal from the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor, which monitors engine speed and crankshaft rotation timing.

The CKP sensor is critical for the SK200-8's Hino J05E engine performance. It provides essential data that the ECM uses to control fuel injection timing, ignition timing, and overall engine synchronization. Without accurate crankshaft position data, the engine cannot operate efficiently or may fail to start entirely. This code is particularly concerning in used excavators where sensor degradation and wiring harness wear are common failure points.

Common Symptoms

When P0335 is active on your Kobelco SK200-8, you may experience:

• Engine cranks but fails to start or has extremely difficult starting conditions
• Check Engine Light (CEL) or malfunction indicator lamp illuminated on the dashboard
• Rough idling or unexpected engine stalling during operation
• Loss of engine power or hesitation during acceleration under load
• Intermittent engine shutdown without warning, especially when the machine is hot

Potential Causes

Several factors can trigger P0335 in used SK200-8 excavators:

• Faulty crankshaft position sensor due to heat exposure, oil contamination, or internal component failure
• Damaged or corroded wiring harness between the CKP sensor and ECM—common rub points exist near the engine block mounting brackets
• Loose or corroded electrical connectors at the sensor or ECM terminals
• Broken or stretched timing belt affecting the sensor's magnetic pickup alignment
• ECM internal fault or corrupted calibration data (rare but possible in older machines)
• Metal debris accumulation on the magnetic sensor tip from engine wear
• Incorrect sensor air gap due to improper installation or engine component wear

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Code P0335

Step 1: Visual Inspection Begin by inspecting the CKP sensor location on the engine block near the crankshaft pulley. Check for physical damage, oil leaks contaminating the sensor, or metal shavings on the sensor tip. Examine the wiring harness from sensor to ECM for chafing, cuts, or heat damage—pay special attention to areas where the harness contacts the engine block or frame.

Step 2: Electrical Testing Using a digital multimeter, disconnect the CKP sensor connector and measure sensor resistance (typically 200-900 ohms for Hino engines; consult service manual for exact specifications). Test harness continuity from sensor connector to ECM pins. Check for short circuits to ground on both signal wires. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or bent pins.

Step 3: Sensor Air Gap and Signal Testing Verify the air gap between the CKP sensor and reluctor wheel is within specification (usually 0.5-1.2mm). Use Kobelco diagnostic software or compatible scan tool to monitor the CKP sensor signal pattern while cranking. An erratic or absent waveform confirms sensor failure.

Step 4: Component Replacement If testing confirms sensor failure, replace the crankshaft position sensor with OEM or quality aftermarket parts. For used excavators, always replace the connector pigtail if corrosion is present. Clear codes using diagnostic software and perform a crankshaft relearn procedure if required by the ECM.

Crucial for Used Equipment: Before replacing expensive components, thoroughly clean all connectors with electrical contact cleaner and inspect for harness wear from vibration—these account for 60% of P0335 codes in high-hour machines.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general diagnostic information. Always consult the official Kobelco service manual for your specific machine serial number and seek professional assistance if you're unfamiliar with electrical diagnostics or ECM programming.