39

Phase V Fault

Allen-Bradley · 160

What does 39 mean?

This fault indicates a phase-to-ground fault has been detected specifically on the 'V' phase wiring between the controller and the motor. This could be due to damaged insulation or a direct short. Such a fault poses an electrical safety hazard and can damage both the controller and motor if unresolved.

Common Causes

  • Insulation breakdown of the motor cable for phase V, causing a short circuit to ground (e.g., conduit, motor frame).
  • Moisture ingress or contamination at motor terminal V, leading to a conductive path to ground.
  • Internal short circuit in the motor winding connected to phase V, specifically to the motor frame.
  • Damaged output terminal block for phase V on the controller, creating a path to the controller's chassis ground.
  • Loose or frayed strand of phase V wire touching exposed ground metalwork within the terminal box.

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    1. Immediately disconnect the motor cable for phase V from the controller's V terminal.

  2. 2

    2. Measure insulation resistance from the controller's V terminal (with motor cable disconnected) to ground using a megohmmeter (e.g., 500V DC). It should be >1 MOhm.

  3. 3

    3. Measure insulation resistance of the motor cable (V phase conductor) from the controller's V terminal end to ground (e.g., cable shield or conduit ground) using a megohmmeter.

  4. 4

    4. Perform an insulation resistance test on the motor winding from the V terminal to the motor frame ground using a megohmmeter.

  5. 5

    5. Visually inspect the motor cable for phase V along its entire length for any cuts, abrasions, or signs of damage.

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Verified technical data. Last updated: March 2026

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