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Install DataLogger on a heavy-duty vehicle

Step 5 of 6 — Install on a heavy-duty vehicle (Class 7–8) Install the DataLogger on a Class 7–8 vehicle using the correct cable for the vehicle’s manufacturer and model year. Most heavy-duty vehicles require a 6-pin or 9-pin cable rather than a direct OBDII connection.

Before you start

  • Confirm your vehicle is a Class 7–8 heavy-duty vehicle.
  • Identify the vehicle’s manufacturer and model year before ordering or installing — these determine which cable type is required (see the compatibility table below).
  • Have the DataLogger device and the cable from your shipment ready.
  • The vehicle must be turned off before you begin.
  • If you have not yet received and inspected your shipment, complete Receive and inspect your device shipment first.

Cable compatibility table

Use this table to confirm the correct cable type for your vehicle. When two cable options are listed, visual inspection is required to determine which port is actually installed on the vehicle.
ManufacturerModel YearCable TypeVisual Verification Required
Freightliner / Western Star / DTNA1996–20016 Pin
Freightliner / Western Star / DTNA2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Freightliner / Western Star / DTNA2007+9 Pin Type 2
International1996–20016 Pin
International2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
International2007+9 Pin Type 2
Mack1996–20016 Pin
Mack2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Mack2007–20139 Pin Type 2
Mack2014+OBDII OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Volvo1996–20016 Pin
Volvo2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Volvo2007–20139 Pin Type 2
Volvo2014+OBDII OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Peterbilt1996–20016 Pin
Peterbilt2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Peterbilt2007+9 Pin Type 2
Kenworth1996–20016 Pin
Kenworth2002–20066 Pin OR 9 Pin Type 2Yes
Kenworth2007+9 Pin Type 2
Cable connector note: 9 Pin Type 2 (green connector) is backwards-compatible with Type 1 (black) vehicle-side diagnostic ports — a Type 2 green cable can plug into a Type 1 black port. The reverse is not possible: a Type 1 black cable connector cannot plug into a Type 2 green port.

Steps

  1. Turn the vehicle off.
  2. Identify the vehicle manufacturer and model year. Use the compatibility table above to determine the expected cable type.
  3. Locate and inspect the diagnostic port. If the table indicates visual verification is required, inspect the port directly to determine whether it is a 6-pin or 9-pin port.
  4. Determine which port to use:
    • Only certain heavy-duty vehicles have an OBDII port. If the OBDII port is the only port available, use it.
    • If the vehicle has both an OBDII port and a 6-pin or 9-pin port, the 6-pin or 9-pin port is the preferred installation choice.
    • Otherwise, use the 6-pin or 9-pin port.
  5. Install the device based on port type:
    • OBDII port: Firmly install the device directly into the OBDII port. No cable required.
    • 6-pin or 9-pin port: Use the supplied cable.
      1. Firmly connect the device to the 16-pin end of the cable.
      2. Connect the 6-pin or 9-pin end to the vehicle diagnostic port. For 9-pin twist-lock connectors, rotate the locking ring clockwise to secure.
  6. Check the LED indicators. LEDs should illuminate, confirming the device is receiving power. LEDs may extinguish after a period of time — this is normal.
  7. Secure the device and cable. Tuck the assembly out of the way behind vehicle paneling. Use zip ties, double-sided tape, or Velcro to secure it so it remains stationary and cannot move freely.

Y-cable installations

If the device must be hidden from view while keeping the vehicle-side diagnostic port unobstructed, a Y-cable is required. Y-cable installations on heavy-duty vehicles may require tools and panel removal. Contact Servinix support if this configuration is needed.

Result / verify

The device LEDs illuminate (or illuminate briefly) after connecting, confirming it has power. Proceed to Verify device connection to confirm data is flowing to Servinix.

Troubleshooting

  • Cable connector does not fit the vehicle port: Do not force the connection. Check the compatibility table and confirm the cable shipped matches the port on your vehicle. Contact Servinix support if the cable type is wrong. See Device install cable mismatch.
  • Unsure whether the 9-pin port is Type 1 or Type 2: Visually compare the connector on your vehicle to the cable ends. The Type 2 green connector is backwards-compatible and will fit Type 1 black ports. Attempt the Type 2 cable first if available.
  • LEDs do not illuminate: Confirm both cable ends are firmly connected. Re-seat the device and the vehicle-side connector. See Device LEDs off after install if the issue persists.