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Table Of Contents
Introduction
Purchasing
Requirements
Translator Devices
Support
Updates
Allison TCM Reflash

Click here to view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  

Refer to the User Guide (GN3433EN) (Click HERE to order) supplied with Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool for more information

  • Refer to the Allison DOC® For PC (AED) User Guide (GN3727EN) (Click HERE to order) for more information 
  • Refer to the Help File in the diagnostic tool
  • Click HERE and scroll to the bottom of the page for a table depicting translator devices, cables, supported protocols, and a diagram for connecting Allison DOC® For PC to a vehicle
  • For Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool installation questions or for PC to Vehicle connection questions, registered users may call: 1-866-621-2128 (US/Canada) or 1-507-455-7223/1-800-345-2233 (International)
  • Laminated tri-fold Job Aid Card (JA3434EN)
  • For Allison Transmission diagnostic tool application training, please contact your nearest Allison Transmission Distributor.

 

 Allison DOC® For Fleets Support

  • Refer to the Allison DOC® For Fleets Quick Reference Guide for more information
  • Refer to the Help File in the diagnostic tool
  • For Allison DOC® For Fleets installation questions or for PC to Vehicle connection questions, registered users may call their IT Managers or their installation CD provider.  

Basic Connectivity Troubleshooting

  • Make sure the ignition is ON.
  • Make sure all the cables and connectors are in good condition.
  • Make sure that you have selected the correct transmission type. 
  • Make sure that your PC meets all the platform requirements to run Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool.
  • Disconnect the translator device from both the PC and the diagnostic connector and reconnect it in order to recycle power on the translator device. 
  • Before attempting to connect, disable any virus scan software or any other active application that could be delaying the data going in/out of the PC.
  • Make sure you have the correct translator device driver version installed on your PC.
  • Close the application, disconnect the translator device from the PC, reboot the PC and try to reconnect.

NOTE: For INSTALLATION or CONNECTIVITY problems, please contact SPX Service Solutions at 1-866-621-2128 (US/Canada) or 1-507-455-7223/1-800-345-2233 (International)

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: My copy of the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool cannot reprogram CMCs via the J1587/J1708 databus communications link on vehicles utilizing WTECIII/CEC2 control systems while I’m using the DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device (with firmware version 60.003), why?
A:  This issue is related to a problem with the firmware version of the DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device. This issue can be corrected by downloading/installing the latest DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device firmware version (60.005).  Refer to the following link => http://www.dgtech.com/product/dpa/firmware/WriteFlashDPA4Plus.EXE

NOTE:  Refer to the following steps to verify the firmware version on your DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device.  End-users only need to download/install the latest firmware if it is not version 60.005 (or greater). 

Steps to Determine the Firmware Version on your DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device:  Run the CheckDR1210 debugging application.  The CheckDR1210 is an application that comes with the DR121032 software which allows you to verify that the PC can effectively communicate with the DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device via the DR121032 drivers.  To run this application, follow these steps: a) Select Start -> Programs -> Dearborn Group -> CheckDR1210 b) Type in 150 (or 151) for the Device ID and press Enter. c) If the PC-to-DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device communication is successful, information about the DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device will be displayed (e.g. driver version, firmware version, etc.).  Make sure the driver version is V2.13 (or greater) and the firmware version is 60.005 (or greater).

Q: Sometimes when I connect to a vehicle while using a DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device (with the version 2.12 driver) and Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v7.3.0 (or earlier), the Allison DOC® application may intermittently shut-down (application will close) while trying to obtain PC-to-vehicle connection for diagnostics, why?
A: This error can be corrected by downloading/installing the latest DPA4 Plus USB Translator Device driver version (2.13).  This new driver can be downloaded from the Allison Transmission web site.  Refer to the following => www.allisontransmission.com | Service | Electronic Tools | Translator Devices

Q: A new parameter called 'Engine Coolant Temperature' was recently added to DOC v6.0.0.  This parameter never changes (DOC always shows 0 deg F for Engine Coolant Temperature) when DOC is connected to a vehicle, why?
A: This issue is related to a problem within the calibration.  If DOC is connected to a TCM with any calibration that has a CC level less than '48', DOC will not display the correct Engine Coolant Temperature.  However, if DOC is connected to a TCM with any calibration with a CC level equal to or greater than '48', the correct Engine Coolant Temperature will be displayed.

Q: Why can't I place the Allison DOC® applications on a server and connect to the vehicle from there?
A: The current state of PC-based diagnostic applications requires a translator device to be connected to the vehicle and in turn, logically connect the diagnostic application to the Allison TCM/ECU.  The translator device itself carries a robust computing requirement (processor speed, RAM, Operation System) which is in conflict with the concept of using a low power computer terminal, truck-side.  In addition, the inherent timing latency associated with moving dynamically acquired data from the vehicle to the translator device through a local PC and up to a server, drives significant complexity into a powerful diagnostic tool such as the Allison DOC® For Fleets applications.

Q: Why can't I download any of the Allison DOC® applications from the Allison server?
A: The Allison DOC® For Fleets applications are configured for "CD-based" distribution.  As a reminder, these applications include embedded Allison Troubleshooting Manuals.  These Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® PDF® versions of the Allison Troubleshooting Manuals carry both Diagnostic Troublecode (DTC) guidance as well as a wide range of graphical components to support the technicians in their troubleshooting activities.  These troubleshooting manuals contribute to the relatively significant size of the application which, in most commercial venues, does not support the concept of online purchases for download.

Q: Can I get a "volume-based" discount on the purchase of translator devices?
A: While Allison continues to find ways to reduce the cost of our diagnostic software, we have no control over pricing of the third party translator devices.

Q: Why doesn't Allison "brand" a translator device?
A: We recognize that in an effort to reduce connection issues and associated support burden, some OEMs or component suppliers will require the use of proprietary or "branded" translation devices to support their diagnostic software.  Allison is a proponent of TMC RP 1210 (Technology and Maintenance Council Recommeded Practice for a standardized interface between on-vehicle communication links and windows-based diagnostics) and has historically maintained a position of working with commercially available RP 1210 devices rather than forcing a consumer to purchase a specific "Allison-branded" or proprietary device.

This strategy increases the range of translator devices the software will communicate with.  However, Allison has identified a specific, commercially-available device, as "essential" for the Allison Service Channel.  That translator device has been fully tested to ensure all levels of functionality within the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool (diagnostic and reprogramming functions) are supported .

Q: Why can't "dash-mounted" DTC display devices read and view Allison DTCs?
A: Allison does broadcast a limited range of J1939-73 (DM1) SPN/FMI Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) which are typically used as a "trigger" for a 'Check Transmission' indicator.  This indicator should be sufficient to cause an operator to seek further transmission troubleshooting using one of the Allison DOC® family diagnostic tools.

Q: If a "dash-mounted" DTC display device doesn't read (or view) Allison DTCs, what needs to be done to add that capability?
A: The industry standard J1939-73 DM1 message structure should be recognizable by  "dash-mounted" DTC display devices.  Allison does provide a limited number of J1939-73 DM1 messages which can be read by DTC display devices.

Q: Why do I receive the following error message when I try to save a TRANSHEALTHTM report?  "Run-time error '75': Path/File access error"
A: This error occurs when the tool tries to create a folder or save a file (i.e. TRANSHEALTHTM report) in a specific directory (defaulted to C:/Program Files/Allison Transmission/Allison DOC For PC - Service Tools/Reports), and the user does not have the required 'administrator privileges' to save files or create folders in that directory.  Users can eliminate this error by contacting their local IT personnel and have the 'administrator settings' modified accordingly.

Q: When trying to connect the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool to MY06 GM-platform vehicles (i.e. GMT560, GM Pickup Trucks, and Work Horse Custom Chassis - WCC) equipped with Allison 4th Generation Controls, why doesn't the Service Tool connect via the Deutsch 9-pin connector?  Why is it necessary to connect through the 16-pin/OBD II connector for the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool even though the Allison TCM Reflash application will connect via both the 9-pin and 16-pin/OBD II connectors?
A: This Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool connection issue is specifically found on vehicles that utilize MY06 GM calibrations and will corrected for MY07 (and later) GM calibrations.  As a note, this issue is not found on MY06 generic (non-GM) calibrations.  When connecting Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool via the 16-pin/OBD II connector, using the J-47943 - DPA4 USB Translator Device Kit, it is necessary to use the GMLAN Cable (SPX P/N: J-47949).  Refer to SIL 11-1K2K-06 for more information.

Q: Why do I lose my PC-to-vehicle connection after just a few seconds of being connected using the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool?
A: This issue is a result of the following: Processor Speed => It is important that your processor speed to be sufficient enough in order for communications to be maintained between your PC and the TCM/ECU.  In order to check your processor speed, you will need to right-click on the My Computer icon, select properties, and look within this window for the processor speed.  It is recommended that the processor speed be at least 1.0GHz.  Power Scheme =>  If your Power Scheme is set to "Max Battery", your CPU capacity will be greatly reduced to maximize battery power and the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool might not be capable of maintaining vehicle connection.  In order to correct this, the Power Scheme needs to be changed from "Max Battery" to "Portable/Laptop".  Access to change the Power Scheme can be obtained via the following: Start => Control Panel => Power Options.  Enabled Virus Protection Software => If your PC has a Virus Protection Software application installed and operating, it is essentially looking at all data moving into and out of the PC.  This monitoring process by the Virus Protection Software slows down the communication to a point where Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool or the TCM/ECU times-out.  If this should occur, the user must disable the Virus Protection Software while using the All

Q: My DPA4 USB Translator Device (J-47943) was working, now it does not respond, why?
A: Try recycling power to the DPA4 USB Translator Device. This can be done by disconnecting and reconnecting it to the vehicle. All LEDs will come ON when power is restored. The 'Power' LED should stay ON. If recycling power does not correct the problem, you will need to replace the USB cable. This is a standard, commercially available, USB cable that can be purchased at any electronic retail store.

Q: Can I use the SPX J1850-VPW translator device with an USB-To-Serial adapter?
A: Yes. The SPX J1850-VPW translator device has been successfully tested with an "USB-To-Serial" cable adapter. The USB-To-Serial cable adapter is available for purchase from RadioShack® (Model # & Catalog #: 26-183). In order to use this cable adapter with the SPX J1850-VPW device, the user needs to install the cable adapter driver (included) and assign it COM1 or COM2. Please consult your IT manager for details on how to re-assign this device to COM1 or COM2.

Q: Why do I receive the following error when I try to launch Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® files (i.e. Troubleshooting Manuals) from the 'Help' menu of Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v5.0.0?   "Error: Could not retrieve Adobe Information from the Registry"
A: The required files for enabling the linking of Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® files to such applications as Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v5.0.0 are no longer installed. In order to correct this issue, users will need to 'uninstall' all versions of Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® using 'Add/Remove Prgrams' in Windows®, reboot the PC, and 'reinstall' V7.0.0 and then V7.0.1 of Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®. The addition of V7.0.1 enables the linking of Microsoft® applications to Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®. Refer to the following URL for more information => http://www.adobe.com/support/

Q: Why are all the hyperlinks from Microsoft® PowerPoint® presentations that I have on my PC not working after I have installed Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v5.0.0?
A: This is the result of some bugs within Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® v7.0.  Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® v7.0 is installed during the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v5.0.0 installation.  A patch exists correcting the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® v7.0 bug via the following URL. => http://www.adobe.com/support/techdocs/331197.html

Q: Why doesn't the 1000/2000 Allison 4th Generation Controls Troubleshooting Manual (TS3977EN) and the 3000/4000 Allison 4th Generation Controls Troubleshooting Manual (TS3989EN) appear in the "Help" menu of Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool?
A: Both Troubleshooting Manuals have been installed but links to the manuals do not exist from the "Help" menu. The Troubleshooting Manuals can be accessed via DTCs or by doing a search for the manuals via Windows Explorer.  This issue only existed in Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool v5.0.0 and was corrected in the v5.0.1 update.

Q: Why can't I see the Trouble Code Window when I connect to a transmission after I have installed DOC v4.0?
A: This issue has only been seen on PCs with the Windows XP® operating system. Follow these steps for resolution:
1) Install DOC v4.0
2) Left Mouse Click on the Start Icon (lower left on your monitor).
3) Left Mouse click on 'Run...' (second column)
4) Type 'regsvr32 "c:\Windows\system32\dxdbgrid.dll" (type everything between the single quotation marks, make sure that the double quotation marks are correct and that the slashes are going in the correct direction).
5) Acknowledge the message box that appears for RegSvr32.
*DOC v4.0 should operate correctly once these steps have been completed.

Q: How do I complete my installation of DOC v4.0 when I receive an "unhandled exception" error window with the following content: "Error Number: 0x80040707, Description: Dll function call, Crashed: ISRT.VerGetFileVersion, Setup will now terminate"?
A: This error message is the result of a conflict between Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® and Allison DOC® For PC. The resolution to this error is to uninstall Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® completely (uninstall using 'Add/Remove Programs' in windows, then manually delete the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® folder). Once Acrobat® has been deleted, reboot the computer and reinstall DOC v4.0. (A copy of Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® is included on the DOC v4.0 CD and will be installed during the DOC For PC installation.)

Q: How can I install DOC v4.0 when I receive the following error message window: "Invalid Creator Id. The Palm Desktop and DOC (TM) (WTEC) For PDA may need to be reinstalled"?
A: This message is created because DOC is looking for the conduit manager that allows transfer of files from the PDA to the PC during installation. If any Snapshot files exist, these will be copied from the PDA over to the corresponding DOC For PC folder via the HotSync function. If the HotSync Version has changed, the Palm Desktop removed, DOC For PDA has been removed, or a different PDA is being used, the error message will be generated. In order to fix the problem, DOC For PDA will need to be uninstalled, then DOC v4.0 will need to be installed, and DOC For PDA reinstalled in that order.

Q: What is the driver version of my translator device?
A: Depending on each adapter (or translator device) there are different files that contain the driver version information that is currently installed on your PC.

  1. Dearborn DPA4 USB:
    • Go to Start -> Find -> Files or Folders? and type: dr121032.dll
    • Right-click on this file and go to Properties 
    • Click on the Version Tab and find the File Version which shows the driver version.
  2. MagiKey PDM: 
    • Go to Start -> Find -> Files or Folders? and type: dx121032.ini
    •  Double-click on this file, it will open up with Notepad or Wordpad
    • On line 15, find PDMSWVER which indicates the driver version, or look for [version]; number=. 
  3. Noregon Systems DLA:
    • Go to Start -> Find -> Files or Folders? and type: pcsrp32.dll
    • Right Click on this file and go to Properties
    • Click on the Version Tab and find the File Version which shows the driver version

NOTE: PDA Based Applications use translator devices that do not require drivers.

Q: Can I use Allison DOC® For PC without being connected?
A: Yes. The DEMO mode, located on the first (warning) window, enables you to use all the display features of the application. There is one demo for each controller.  Essentially, the DEMO mode will help first-time users to familiarize themselves with the various functions of the application off-line.

Q: How do I get the latest Adapter's driver version?
A: Here are the web sites of each adapter to download the latest version of the drivers:
1. Dearborn DPA4 USB Latest Driver
2. MagiKey (PDM) Latest Driver
3. Noregon DLA Latest Driver

NOTE:
The PDA Based Applications use translator devices that do not require drivers.

Q: What can I do if I'm having communication problems with the Adapter?
A: Here are some useful links that will direct you to the product support web for each particular adapter:
1. Dearborn DPA4 USB Support
2. MagiKey PDM Support
3. Noregon DLA Support
4. B&B J1708D15
5. B&B HDV100A1 (For the PDA Based Application).

You can also contact the manufacturer directly. Click here to get the contact information for each adapter.

Q: Can I playback Snapshots with Allison DOC® For PDA?
A: No. You will need to have Allison DOC® For PC in order to playback the Snapshots recorded with the PDA application. Additionally, these Snapshot files can be sent via e-mail for the corresponding analysis.

Q: Where do I get the password(s) that I need?
A: All new users will need to register their software within a period of 30 days. New users need to call SPX Corporation at 1-866-621-2128.  For those users wishing to enable the reprogram function, they will need to call the same phone number being prepared to provide the appropriate training certificate as proof. Click here to have more information on the available courses.

Q: What do I need in order to use the B&B J1708D15 device?
A: You will need to install the Noregon's RP1210A drivers. These drivers will be automatically installed when executing the Setup.exe file on the Noregon Standalone RP1210A API folder, located on the Allison DOC® For PC CD.

Q: I don't see, in Allison DOC® For PC, the Snapshot files that I just transfered from my Palm. Is it lost?
A: No. Once you are on the Open Playback file window, you just need to change the Files of Type to 1.0 and 1.1 Log Files (*log) on the pull down menu. You will need to do this the first time only as the application will automatically transform these files into zip files.

Q: What information is captured in a Snapshot?
A: Independent of what screens, functions, or parameters you used/selected during the recording phase of a Snapshot, all the data will be saved in this file. This means that during a playback, you can select different parameters/screens (e.g. in the Strip Chart) from the ones that you used while connected. However, it is very important to note that the only data that will not be available is the information on the Data Bus Viewer. This data must be saved during connection using the corresponding SAVE command button.

Q: How does the Snapshot function work?
A: The Snapshot function is used to save real-time transmission data during connection sessions. In order to completely understand how this function works, you need to keep in mind the following facts:

  • Once you decide to start a recording session, the application will save the monitoring data from the moment of connection.
  • During playback you can't modify any aspect of the file (trigger position, bookmarks locations, etc).

There are 3 different ways or routes you can use to start recording a Snapshot:

1. Click on F6-Fire Trigger button, or hit F6 on the keyboard. As soon as you click on this button, the application will place a Trigger Flag at this point in time (remember that the reference or beginning of the file will be the connection time). During playback, this Trigger position allows Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool to go to the specific moment at which you clicked the F6-Fire Trigger button. After clicking F6, the accelerator button will change its definition to F6- Bookmark #1 which basically tells you that the tool is ready to place a bookmark whenever you need it.

2. Click on the F4-Snapshot button, or hit F4 on the keyboard. This will show a selection window which allows you to select Start Recording or Stop Recording. Select Start Recording. A different window will be shown to select the following:

  • When this Trouble Code appears, remember this session. In this option, you need to select a specific DTC that you          might be interested in. After clicking OK, the application will place the trigger Flag as soon as the specified DTC is logged in the ECU/TCM. From this moment, the F6 button will function as F6- Bookmark #x (x=1,2,3?).
  • When any Trouble Code appears, remember this session. This option is very similar to the previous with the only difference that the Trigger Flag will be placed when any DTC is logged in the ECU/TCM.
  • Remember this session. This last option is equivalent to clicking on F6-Fire Trigger in the first place. This means that the Trigger Flag will be placed at that specific moment.

3. Click on Snapshot (menu bar) -> Record -> Record options (F11). This will show the option windows explained previously.

In order to stop recording a Snapshot, you can do any of the following options:
1. Hit F7 button on the keyboard.
2. Click on F4-Snapshot -> Stop Recording.
3. Click on Snapshot (menu bar) -> Record -> Stop Recording (F7)
4. Click on F5-Disconnect -> Disconnect. This route will save the Snapshot file and will disconnect the application.

Q: I can't synchronize the Allison DOC® For PDA application from my PC to my Palm.
A: Right after installing Allison DOC® For PDA on your PC (and before PC-PDA synch), you should be able to see the DOC XX.prc file on the Install Tool function available from your Palm Desktop application. If this file is not on that window, you can always add it to the list of items to be transferred, from PC to the Palm, on the next synchronization. The DOC XX.prc file is on ...\Program Files\Allison Transmission\Allison DOC XX For PDA\. 

Q: Why can't I install Allison DOC® For Fleets on the same PC that already has Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool installed?
A: The Allison DOC® For Fleets diagnostic applications and Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool diagnostic application can be installed on the same PC.  Due to registry conflicts, the Allison DOC® For Fleets diagnostic applications (either the Allison DOC® For Fleets - 1000/2000 and/or the Allison DOC® For Fleets - 3000/4000 applications) must be installed before the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool application is installed.  As a note, Allison DOC® For Fleets cannot be installed on PCs that already have Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool installed. 

Q: When printed, my Adobe® Acrobat Reader® files (e.g. Troubleshooting Manuals from the Allison DOC® For PC-Service Tool diagnostic application) are "cluttered" with random characters.  How can this be corrected?
A: This can be corrected by selecting 'File' in the main menu of Adobe® Acrobat Reader®, then selecting 'Print'.  While on the 'Print' window, select 'Advanced'.  On the 'Advanced' window find and check "Print as image".