PB400, Cummins QSL9, SPN 157

[admin]

We've been experiencing intermittent power loss and occasional hard starts on our 6,000hr 2011 PB400. Spits the old useless 501 code at us, but on the engine diagnostic screen, it shows an active code of FMI 18 SPN 157 during the power loss situations. According to Cummins, that means " Injector Metering Rail 1 Pressure - Data Valid but Below Normal Operational Range - Moderately Severe". Obviously we're looking at unhealthy low pressure on the common rail. We've tried the simple stuff, like filters, draining the tank, repriming the system, etc.

But before we go to the (expensive) extent of replacing the high pressure fuel pump, is this something others have seen, and if so, what did you find? Any magic solutions or ideas to cut down our troubleshooting time?

Thanks!

[PB400Fan]

Did you get a batch of bad diesel? For whatever reason all the cummins powered cats i've ever dealt with have always seemed to be more susceptible to fuel related issues than CAT or Mercedes motors.... ive only ever seen the 501 code with bad diesel, changing the filters and getting good fuel corrected it and in extreme cold without the fuel line heater on.... hopefully it ends up being something minor!

[admin]

Did you get a batch of bad diesel? For whatever reason all the cummins powered cats i've ever dealt with have always seemed to be more susceptible to fuel related issues than CAT or Mercedes motors.... ive only ever seen the 501 code with bad diesel, changing the filters and getting good fuel corrected it and in extreme cold without the fuel line heater on.... hopefully it ends up being something minor!

Nah, our tank is small, and this has been happening sporadically for a few weeks, so we've had at least 3 separate fuel deliveries.

We're leaning toward a bad relief/drain valve on the common rail that's bleeding pressure when it shouldn't. We're also scrutinizing the lift pump. Will let you know what we find out!

[ward-o]

Good one, I don't know if this helps but,almost all of our 400s' 501codes were due to the little prefilter screen and float bowl. the preheater can come unscrewed as the bowl is removed for cleaning or replacing. Make SURE its TIGHT, before the bowl goes back on. Gluck