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Install DataLogger on a medium-duty vehicle

Step 4 of 6 — Install on a medium-duty vehicle (Class 4–6) Install the DataLogger on a Class 4–6 vehicle by identifying the available diagnostic port and connecting the device directly or with the correct cable. Medium-duty vehicles can have an OBDII port, a 6-pin port, a 9-pin port, or multiple port types.

Before you start

  • Confirm your vehicle is a Class 4–6 medium-duty vehicle.
  • Inspect the vehicle to identify which diagnostic port(s) are present before you begin (see Step 2 below).
  • Have the DataLogger device and any cables 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.

Steps

  1. Turn the vehicle off.
  2. Locate and identify the diagnostic port(s). Medium-duty vehicles can have an OBDII port, a 6-pin port, a 9-pin port, or a combination. It is common to find multiple port types, especially on vehicles from manufacturers who also produce light-duty vehicles.
  3. Determine which port to use:
    • If only one port is present, use that port.
    • If the vehicle has an OBDII port and comes from a manufacturer who also builds light-duty vehicles, the OBDII port is the preferred choice for installation.
    • If no OBDII port is present, or if the vehicle is from a manufacturer that does not build light-duty vehicles, use the 6-pin or 9-pin port.
  4. 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 of the cable to the vehicle diagnostic port.
  5. Check the LED indicators. The LEDs should illuminate, confirming the device is receiving power. LEDs may extinguish after a period of time — this is normal.
  6. Secure the device and cable. Tuck the assembly behind vehicle paneling. Use zip ties, double-sided tape, or Velcro to secure it in place. The device must remain stationary and must not be able to move freely — movement can cause rattling, rubbing, or connector wear.

Extension and Y-cable situations

Extension cables and Y-cables are available for OBDII, 6-pin, and 9-pin ports:
  • Extension cable: Use when the diagnostic port is in an inconvenient location and the device or cable assembly would interfere with the driver or safe vehicle operation.
  • Y-cable: Use when the diagnostic port must remain accessible for other tools while the device is installed.
Contact Servinix support to request extension or Y-cables.

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

  • Unsure whether to use the OBDII or 6/9-pin port when both are present: Default to OBDII if the vehicle manufacturer also builds light-duty vehicles. Otherwise, use the 6-pin or 9-pin port.
  • Cable connector does not fit the vehicle port: Do not force the connection. Contact Servinix support — you may have received the wrong cable type. See Device install cable mismatch.
  • LEDs do not illuminate: Confirm the cable is firmly connected at both ends. Try re-seating. If LEDs still do not light, see Device LEDs off after install.