Experiencing limp mode and a flashing check engine light on your 2000 UD 1400 can be frustrating, especially when diagnostic information seems scarce. Many owners may initially look for the OBD2 port location to pull error codes, hoping for a quick fix. If you’re facing a code 35, indicating a turbo actuator problem, you’re not alone. This guide shares a hands-on experience in diagnosing and resolving a turbo actuator issue on a 2000 UD 1400 Vortex H.A.T. truck, offering a potential DIY solution when professional support is lacking.
Initially, encountering limp mode with the check engine light flashing code 35 pointed towards the turbo actuator. Suspecting a simple mechanical issue, a weekend investigation began. With the help of a young assistant cycling the ignition (key on, engine off), the turbo actuator’s movement was observed. It moved, but could be easily stopped manually. Closer inspection revealed a missing “C” clip on the push rod, causing binding. A quick fix involving sanding, grease, and a new clip seemed to resolve the problem temporarily.
Initial Turbo Actuator Inspection
However, this repair was short-lived, lasting only six months before the dreaded code 35 and limp mode returned. Another weekend was dedicated to a deeper diagnosis. The C-clip was still in place and well-greased, but the actuator movement was again restricted – barely moving half an inch and easily stopped by hand. Based on information from other forums suggesting actuator issues are more common than turbo failures themselves on these trucks, the focus shifted to the actuator itself.
Actuator Removal for Inspection
Removing the actuator and opening its housing revealed a burned pin on the internal connector, indicating electrical stress. Further investigation into the electric motor within the actuator uncovered the root cause. The motor was extremely stiff, barely movable even with pliers.
Opening the Actuator Motor
Upon opening the motor itself, a significant problem was immediately apparent. Metal shavings had accumulated inside, jamming the armature. It appeared the armature was rubbing against the magnets, generating these shavings over time and eventually seizing the motor.
Metal Shavings Inside the Actuator Motor
The solution was surprisingly simple: cleaning out all the metal shavings and reassembling the motor. There was no need for precise alignment or gear positioning, suggesting the truck’s computer recalibrates to the actuator’s new parameters. After reassembly and reconnection, the difference was immediately noticeable. The actuator now moved forcefully, impossible to stop by hand.
Cleaned and Reassembled Actuator Motor
Since this repair, the 2000 UD 1400 has run without any turbo actuator issues for over a year and a half. This experience highlights that a code 35 and turbo actuator problems on these trucks can often be resolved with a DIY approach, focusing on cleaning the electric motor within the actuator itself. Hopefully, this detailed account will assist other UD truck owners facing similar challenges in diagnosing and repairing their turbo systems.
