In 2013, Volvo introduced a new diagnostic connector style for Volvo chassis equipped with Volvo engines. This shift presented a change from the traditional J1939 9-pin Deutsch connector, which Volvo continues to use for chassis with Cummins engines. The new interface, adopting an OBD2 style format, incorporates two distinct CAN channels: ISO15765 on CAN channel 1 and J1939 on CAN channel 2. Additionally, it retains J1708 within the connector. This evolution in diagnostic connectors necessitates specialized solutions for technicians and vehicle operators accustomed to standard J1939 equipment.
To address this compatibility challenge, the J1939 Connector To Obd2 adapter emerges as an essential tool. This adapter is designed to bridge the gap, enabling seamless connection between standard J1939 testers and the new Volvo connector style. By tapping into Channel 2, the adapter ensures reliable communication with the J1939 network. Furthermore, it facilitates the integration of standard GPS units or other J1939 heavy equipment accessories with the latest Volvo connector interface.
Understanding the pinout of the new Volvo diagnostic connector is crucial for proper adapter utilization. Below is a detailed pin assignment for the new style Volvo diagnostic connector:
| Pin Number | Signal |
|---|---|
| 3 | J1939+ |
| 5 | GND |
| 6 | ISO15765+ |
| 11 | J1939- |
| 12 | J1708+ |
| 13 | J1708- |
| 14 | ISO15765- |
| 16 | BATTERY |
The adapter’s wiring configuration ensures correct signal routing between the Volvo connector and standard J1939 connections. The wiring connections for the J1939 connector to OBD2 adapter are detailed as follows:
| Volvo | Signal | J1939 |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Ground | A |
| 16 | Battery | B |
| 3 | J1939-H | C |
| 11 | J1939-L | D |
| 12 | J1708+ | F |
| 13 | J1708- | G |
Beyond the Volvo specific adapter, a range of similar adapters cater to various J1939 and OBD2 interface scenarios. These include:
J1939 Female to OBD2 Female Adapter: This adapter is designed to connect a vehicle equipped with a J1939 connector to an OBD2 style tester. It efficiently bridges the J1939 data lines to the CAN lines of the OBD2 interface, along with power and ground connections. A common use case is connecting OBD2-compatible GPS trackers to vehicles utilizing the 9-pin round Deutsch connector.
J1939 Male to OBD2 Male Adapter: This adapter cable facilitates the use of a J1939 scan tool, typically designed for the round 9-pin Deutsch connector, with J1939-equipped vehicles that utilize a standard OBD2 style connector.
Volvo M-M Adapter: Specifically for Volvo’s new OBD2 style diagnostic connector introduced in 2013 for Volvo chassis with Volvo engines. This adapter allows the use of standard J1939 testers.
GMC Top Kick M-M Adapter: Addressing GMC Top Kick trucks, this adapter accommodates both Cummins (J1708 data with OBD2 style connector) and CAT engines (J1939 Data). It enables connection of a standard J1939/J1708 tester with a 9-pin connector.
Hino Truck M-M Adapter: This adapter serves Hino trucks with OBD2 style connectors, allowing connection to a J1939 tester with a standard 9-pin connector.
Allison to J1939 Adapter: Specifically for Allison (and some Detroit Diesel) vehicles where the 16-pin OBD2 style diagnostic connector uses pin 4 for Ground instead of pin 5. This adapter ensures compatibility with standard J1939 accessories using the 9-pin plug.
In conclusion, the J1939 connector to OBD2 adapter is a vital component for maintaining diagnostic and accessory compatibility with Volvo vehicles featuring the updated OBD2 style J1939 connector. Alongside a variety of similar adapters, it ensures that professionals and vehicle owners can effectively interface with diverse heavy-duty vehicle diagnostic systems. For specialized needs, custom cable configurations are also available, offering solutions for virtually any connection requirement.
