GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P061C: Control Module Engine Speed Performance

Circuit/System Description

The power take-off (PTO) is an upfitter integrated system that allows the user to create an auxiliary power source. The PTO system specifically controls engine speed to values higher than normal base idle, PTO load relay engagement, and remote starting and shutdown of the engine. When the operator requests PTO using either the PTO switch or PTO remote, the engine RPM will increase to a default standby speed. The engine control module (ECM) converts the data from the engine speed sensor to a 2 pulses/engine revolution signal. When PTO is engaged, the power take-off module (PTOM) sends a serial data message to the ECM requesting engine speeds, in accordance with the depressed switches from the PTO switch or remote.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The PTOM detects that the requested RPM and the actual engine RPM do not match.
    • The above condition is present for greater than a predetermined time threshold.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The PTOM stores the DTC information into memory when this diagnostic runs and fails.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A last test failed, or the current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
    • A history DTC clears after 100 consecutive warm-up cycles, if failure is no longer present.

Diagnostic Aids

    • When not in mobile PTO mode, heavy engine load may cause this code to be set.
    • Use a scan tool to observe the PTO inhibit and disengage history.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Power Take-Off (PTO) Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Power Take-Off (PTO) Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Important: 

   • Repair any ECM related DTCs or symptoms before using this diagnostic.
   • This DTC may be stored as a history DTC without affecting the operation of the ECM or PTOM. Do not replace the ECM or PTOM if this DTC is stored only as a history DTC and is not retrieved as a current DTC.

  1. Engine ON, press 1 on the PTO switch to engage PTO. The engine RPM should increase to the default engine speed within a few seconds. Press RES + to increase the engine speed and SET - to decrease the engine speed accordingly.
  2. Engine ON, clear codes in the PTOM and then engage PTO. Verify that DTC P061C does not reset as current in the PTOM.
  3. If the specified code sets as current, replace the ECM. Do not replace the PTOM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for ECM replacement, setup, and programming