What is Komatsu PC110-8M0 Fault Code E-13?

Fault Code E-13 on the Komatsu PC110-8M0 indicates a hydraulic pump delivery pressure sensor malfunction or abnormal signal output. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) specifically monitors the main hydraulic pump pressure sensor circuit, which provides critical feedback to the machine's Electronic Control Module (ECM) regarding system pressure levels.

This code is particularly important for the PC110-8M0 because the hydraulic pressure sensor directly influences pump output control, attachment responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. When the ECM cannot accurately read hydraulic pressure, it may limit machine performance or enter a protective derate mode to prevent catastrophic pump or system damage. For used excavators, this sensor circuit is vulnerable to wear, contamination, and connector corrosion common in high-hour machines.

Common Symptoms

When Code E-13 is active on your Komatsu PC110-8M0, operators typically experience:

• Warning light illumination on the monitor panel with error code display
• Reduced hydraulic response or sluggish attachment movement (bucket, boom, arm)
• Intermittent power loss during digging or lifting operations
• Erratic hydraulic function where machine operates normally then suddenly loses power
• Pump over-revving or unusual whining sounds during operation due to improper pressure regulation

Potential Causes

The most common technical reasons for E-13 appearing on used PC110-8M0 excavators include:

• Faulty hydraulic pressure sensor (common failure point after 5,000+ hours)
• Damaged or corroded wiring harness between the sensor and ECM, especially at flex points near the pump
• Contaminated electrical connectors due to hydraulic oil mist or water intrusion
• Poor ground connection at the sensor mounting location causing voltage reference issues
• ECM software glitches or internal ECM fault (less common but possible in older machines)
• Hydraulic oil contamination affecting sensor accuracy through particulate buildup

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Code E-13

Step 1: Visual Inspection Begin by inspecting the hydraulic pump pressure sensor located on the main pump assembly. Check for physical damage, oil leaks around the sensor body, and corrosion on the electrical connector. On used excavators, examine the wiring harness from sensor to ECM for chafing, cuts, or heat damage—common at routing points near hot engine components.

Step 2: Electrical Testing Using a digital multimeter, perform continuity and resistance checks on the sensor circuit. Disconnect the sensor connector and measure resistance across sensor terminals (typical specification: 100-300 ohms at 20°C, consult service manual). Check for short circuits to ground and verify supply voltage (typically 5V reference from ECM). Corroded connectors are extremely common on high-hour machines—clean with electrical contact cleaner and inspect for pushed-back pins.

Step 3: Sensor Signal Testing With the machine running (if safe to do so), backprobe the sensor connector using Komatsu KOMTRAX diagnostic software or equivalent scan tool to monitor real-time pressure values. Compare readings to actual hydraulic pressure gauge measurements. Erratic voltage signals (outside 0.5-4.5V range) indicate sensor failure.

Step 4: Component Replacement If testing confirms sensor failure, replace with a genuine Komatsu hydraulic pressure sensor (OEM part recommended for reliability). For used machines, always replace the connector pigtail if corrosion is present—avoid simply cleaning badly corroded connectors. After installation, clear codes, run the machine through full hydraulic cycles, and verify Code E-13 does not return.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general troubleshooting information. Always consult the official Komatsu PC110-8M0 service manual and qualified heavy equipment technicians for diagnosis and repair. Improper repairs may cause safety hazards or additional machine damage.