Outrigger Not Deployed or Pin Switch Fault
The ALLMAND-13 (COMMANDER controller) diesel fault code means: Outrigger Not Deployed or Pin Switch Fault. This is a serious severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $20-$150 DIY for switch replacement and wiring repair. Pro shop diagnosis and repair typically $150-$400 depending on harness damage and labor rate.
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Common Symptoms
- COMMANDER controller display shows fault code 13 on the side panel
- Mast raise function is completely locked out, tower will not extend
- Outrigger deployed indicator light does not illuminate even after outriggers are set
- Audible alarm sounds when operator attempts to raise the mast
- Generator and lights may still run but all mast controls are disabled
- One or more outrigger pin indicator LEDs remain unlit on the operator panel
- Unit appears fully set up visually but the controller does not confirm outrigger position
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Outrigger deploy pin not fully inserted or missing on one or more legs Very Likely
- Outrigger limit switch or pin-detection switch dirty, corroded, or misaligned so it cannot confirm pin engagement Very Likely
- Broken or chafed wiring harness lead between the outrigger switch and the COMMANDER controller, open circuit in that leg Likely
- Outrigger pin-detection switch failed internally, contacts stuck open Likely
- Outrigger leg not fully extended to its locked travel position so the switch never reaches trip point Possible
- Corrosion or mud packed into the switch housing preventing plunger movement Possible
- COMMANDER controller input channel fault requiring controller reset or service Less Likely
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
Walk all four outrigger legs and visually confirm each safety pin is fully inserted through the outrigger foot bracket and the hole is aligned. A pin that is only partially through will not trip the switch. Push each pin firmly until you feel it seat.
With pins confirmed in, check that each outrigger leg is extended to its full travel stop. The limit switch trip point is near the end of travel. If a leg is short by even a few inches, the switch may not actuate.
Locate the outrigger pin-detection switches, one per leg, typically a small plunger-style or magnetic reed switch mounted on the outrigger bracket near the pin hole. Inspect each switch housing for packed mud, rust, or physical damage. Clean with contact cleaner and verify the plunger moves freely.
With the pin inserted, manually press the switch plunger by hand and watch the COMMANDER display. If fault code 13 clears momentarily when you depress the plunger, the switch is good but the pin or bracket alignment is off. If the code does not clear, the switch or wiring is the problem.
Disconnect the suspect switch connector and measure resistance across the switch terminals with a multimeter. With the plunger depressed (pin installed), a normally-open switch should read near zero ohms closed. An open reading (OL) with the plunger depressed confirms a failed switch.
Trace the wiring harness from each outrigger switch back toward the COMMANDER controller junction box. Look for chafed insulation, pinched wires at hinge points, or pulled-apart connectors. Measure continuity from the switch connector pin back to the controller input terminal. An open or high-resistance reading means a broken wire.
If all four switches test good and wiring is intact but the code persists, power cycle the unit completely. Turn the operator panel to OFF, wait 30 seconds, and restart. If code 13 returns immediately with all pins confirmed in and switches verified, the COMMANDER controller input may need inspection or replacement by a qualified service technician.
Do not attempt to bypass or jumper the outrigger interlock to force the mast to raise. This safety circuit exists to prevent tip-over. Resolve the root cause before mast operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Allmand code 13 mean?
Code 13 means the COMMANDER controller cannot confirm that all outriggers are pinned in the fully deployed position. The controller reads one or more outrigger pin-detection switches as open, so it blocks the mast from raising as a tip-over safety measure.
Can the light tower still run with code 13 active?
The generator and lights can still operate with code 13 active, but the mast is fully locked out. You cannot raise or lower the tower until the fault is cleared. Plan to resolve the outrigger switch issue before you need to reposition the tower.
How much does it cost to fix code 13?
If the fix is just fully seating a pin or cleaning a dirty switch, your cost is essentially zero. A replacement outrigger limit switch runs $20-$80 in parts and is a straightforward swap. If a wiring harness section needs repair or replacement, expect $150-$400 at a rental equipment service shop including labor.
Is it safe to bypass the outrigger interlock so I can raise the mast?
No. Never jumper or bypass the outrigger safety circuit. That interlock is the primary tip-over prevention system. Raising a mast on an improperly deployed outrigger can topple a tower weighing hundreds of pounds. Fix the root cause first.