Troubleshooting the E-61 Communication Error Code

Overview

The E-61 error occurs when one or more of the controls fail to communicate over the RS-485 communication cable for 60 seconds or more. This error can disrupt filtering and top-off operations.

Error Display

The error clears when acknowledged but will return after 4 hours if the issue persists.

• E-61A/B/C: One specific control is not communicating (A = Control #1, B = Control #2, C = Control #3).

• E-61M: Multiple controls are not communicating.

Call Avoidance

To help the end user resolve the issue without a service call:

• Power off all fryer vats for 30 seconds and power back on.

• Verify power to all vats – a powered-off vat will not communicate.

• Acknowledge the error on the display to resume operation temporarily.

Field Troubleshooting

Recommended Parts:

• Harness - Control to Control Comm

• Control board

Recommended Tools:

• Multimeter

• Basic hand tools

Troubleshooting

1. Check Error Code Display

   • If E-61A/B/C: One control is missing.

   • If E-61M: Multiple controls are missing.

2. Verify Power to All Vats

   • If a vat is not powering on, check its power supply.

   • If powered off, restore power and recheck communication.

3. Inspect and Test Communication Cables

   • If cables are loose or damaged, reconnect or replace.

   • If cables are secure, continue to Step 4.

4. Check Communication at Each Control

   • Use a multimeter to test the Control Communication RS-485 harness signal (typically 2.5V DC idle).

   • If no signal, continue to Step 5.

5. Swap Communication Cable Between Controls

   • If the error moves with the cable, replace the cable.

   • If the error remains, continue to Step 6.

6. Check “Number of Wells” Setting in Tech Mode (T-4)

   • If a 2-well fryer is set to 3-well, it may show E-61C or E-61M.

   • Correct the setting: Menu > Prog > Tech Mode > Step T-4 > Set correct number of wells.

   NOTE: A 2-well fryer should never show E-61C or E-61M. 

7. Replace Faulty Control

   • If communication and settings are correct but error persists, replace the control board.

Other Information

False E-61 Errors can be caused by incorrect “Number of Wells” setting. Always verify this in Tech Mode.

• Two-Well Fryers: If both controls show E-61A and E-61B, they are not communicating with each other.

• Three-Well Fryers: If one control is not communicating, the other two will agree and show the same error (E-61 A/B/C). The non-communicating control will show E-61M.