Pcs Paddle Shifter User Guide V3.0
Pcs Paddle Shifter User Guide V3.0
2.1 Locate and Connect the Receiver Module to the Existing Horn Circuit ................................................................................................... 2 - 3
2.2a Connect the Receiver Module to CAN for TCU communication .................................................................................................................... 4
2.2b Connect the Receiever Module to Discrete Outputs for TCU Communication ....................................................................................... 5 - 6
3.1 Locate and Connect the Paddle Shifter Module to the Existing Horn Circuit ................................................................................................. 7
4.1 TCU Configuration using CAN for Shifting and Communication ........................................................................................................... 10 - 11
Revision History
11-30-2016: Section 1.2c: Connect the Receiver Module to a GM Mechatronic and Section 6.2: Pairing & Advanced Options added.
11-27-2017: Parts list updated to indicate the 6 - #10-32 x 2” Flat Head Cap Screws are for 5-6 bolt paddle shifters only.
Powertrain Control Solutions
1 Introduction
• 1 - Receiver Module
• 1 - Receiver Module Harness (5’ Length)
• 1 - Paddle Shifter Module
• 1 - Paddle Shifter Module Harness
• 1 - 1/2” Spacer
• 1 - 1/4” Spacer
• 6 - #10-32 x 2” Flat Head Cap Screws (5/6 Bolt Only)
• 1 - Optional Multi-Function Display Installed on Paddle Shifter
1.3 Overview
The Powertrain Control Solutions (PCS) Paddle Shifter is used to manually shift an electronic automatic transmission.
The paddle shifter kit includes a receiver module and a paddle shifter. Optionally, the paddle shifter may include a multi-
function display. The paddle shifter commands a shift from the receiver module to the transmission controller using either
a high-speed CAN connection or discrete outputs. The CAN connection is recommended if using a PCS transmission
controller and required if using the multi-function display. The communication from the paddle shifter to the receiver
module is wireless, however, power is required at the paddle shifter. To easily accommodate this requirement, PCS
recommends installation using the existing horn wire as described further in this manual.
NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS NOT DESIGNED FOR VEHICLES WITH A STEERING WHEEL MOUNTED AIRBAG.
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2.1 Locate and Connect the Receiver Module to the Existing Horn Circuit
The receiver module should be mounted in a location near the paddle shifter with access to power (switched +12V),
ground, the horn circuit, and either the TCU CAN circuit or TCU digital inputs. This is typically behind the dash or in the
driver’s kick panel. Before permanently mounting the receiver, it is advised to verify operation of the complete system. It is
possible that certain locations may result in low wireless signal quality to the paddle shifter module resulting in degraded
performance. The receiver module should be securely mounted using the two bolt holes or with high strength Velcro.
The paddle shifter module mounted to the steering wheel requires power. This kit was designed to use the existing horn
wire to simplify the installation. Figure 2.1-1 shows a typical stock horn circuit. Also note the wire that will need to be
located and cut.
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PCS Paddle Shifter User Guide
Figure 2.1-2 shows the installation of the receiver module into the existing horn circuit. Cut the OEM horn wire before
the steering column. Connect the horn relay side to the white wire on the receiver module harness (Pin 6). Connect the
horn button side to the orange wire on the receiver module harness (Pin 5). Connect the red wire (Pin 1) to a switched
+12V power source. Connect the black wire (Pin 2) to a chassis ground. Butt crimp connectors and heat shrink have been
provided for this operation.
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The PCS Quick Connect harness should be used to connect the Paddle Shifter to a PCS device with the option connector.
To connect, simply connect the harness into the option connector as shown into figure X. If this is the first device on the
CAN network a “Y” connector and resistor must also plug in as shown. Reference Figure 2.2-1.
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PCS Paddle Shifter User Guide
2.2b Connect the Receiver Module to Discrete Outputs for TCU Communication
If using CAN for communication and shifting, proceed to Section 3. Do not connect both CAN communication and the
digital inputs. You must choose one or the other. If using the optional multi-function display, CAN must be used for full
functionality.
Use of the PCS universal paddle shifter harness is required to use the discrete upshift and downshift wires. Connect the
brown wire (Pin 7) on the receiver module harness to the appropriate TCU digital input for downshifting. Connect the blue
wire (Pin 8) to the appropriate TCU digital input for upshifting. Reference Figure 2.2-2.
The Second configuration is for a TCM that is programmed for TUTD hardwire input. This configuration will need to
have Pin ‘8’ blue wire from the receiver module ran into the TUTD pin in the transmission connector for GM 6 Speed
transmissions. Reference Figure 2.2-3. Paddle shifters with a multi-function display require both CAN communication
spliced into the GM LAN wires along with the hardwire input. Tap functionality in GM Mechatronic is configured in the
internal TCM. If using the optional multi-function display, CAN must be used for full functionality. Reference Figure 2.2-4.
PCS GM Mechatronic harnesses have the paddle shifter receiver connector already incorporated into the harness. These
harnesses only require connecting the paddle shifter harness. Reference Figure 2.2-5.
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3.1 Locate and Connect the Receiver Module to the Existing Horn Circuit
The receiver module should be mounted in a location near the paddle shifter with access to power (switched +12V),
ground, the horn circuit, and either the TCU CAN circuit or TCU digital inputs. This is typically behind the dash or in the
driver’s kick panel. Before permanently mounting the receiver, it is advised to verify operation of the complete system. It is
possible that certain locations may result in low wireless signal quality to the paddle shifter module resulting in degraded
performance. The receiver module should be securely mounted using the two bolt holes or with high strength Velcro.
The paddle shifter module mounted to the steering wheel requires power. This kit was designed to use the existing horn
wire to simplify the installation. Figure 3.1-1 shows a typical stock horn circuit. Also note the wire that will need to be
located and cut.
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NOTE: Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions of any adapter(s) installed on the steering column.The paddle
shifter must be grounded. The black (Pin 3) ground wire has a circular terminal installed on it for installation through a bolt.
The bolt should bolt directly into the steering column to provide a clean ground.
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PCS Paddle Shifter User Guide
After choosing the appropriate combination of spacers, align the installation holes of the spacers, paddle shifter, and
steering wheel. Insert the 5 or 6 installation bolts through the holes and thread them into the adapter. The horn button
should be removed during installation to provide access to the wiring and paddle shifter connector. Pull the green and
white horn wires (with the 90 degree spade terminals installed) through the paddle shifter.
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The transmission controller must be configured for manual shifting. This includes wiring a switch for simple or true manual
mode. Simple manual mode allows the user to set the top gear of the transmission, similar to moving the shifter lever
down. In this mode, the transmission will upshift and downshift to the top gear as scheduled in the calibration. In simple
manual mode, the transmission will automatically downshift to 1st gear as the vehicle comes to a stop. In true manual
mode, the transmission will shift to the gear demanded by the paddles. True manual mode is the mode typically used with
paddle shifters. In true manual mode, the transmission will not automatically downshift as the vehicle comes to a stop. It
is the responsibility of the driver to downshift to the appropriate gear when the vehicle moves from a stop.
When using CAN to shift, verify that no digital inputs are configured for shifting. Shifting over CAN and the digital inputs
may result in inconsistent shifting. Open the digital inputs form from Transmission Setup. Confirm that none of the inputs
are set to Upshift or Downshift. Also, check that the input wired to the manual mode switch is defined as True Manual or
Simple Manual. In the example shown in Figure 4.1-2 the true manual switch is an active low (ground) input connected
to digital input 7. Note: Gear selects, brake light inputs, and other functions unrelated to manual mode shifting should not
be changed from the correct base calibrations. The functions relevant to shifting are Simple Manual Mode, True Manual
Mode, Upshift, and Downshift.
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Open the digital inputs form from Transmission Setup. Confirm that the input connected to the upshift wire is defined as
Upshift. Likewise, confirm that the input connected to the downshift wire is defined as Downshift. Change the functions if
they are not configured properly. Also, check that the input wired to the manual mode switch is defined as True Manual or
Simple Manual. In the example shown in Figure 4.2-1, the true manual switch is an active low (ground) input connected
to digital input 7. Upshift is connected to digital input 8 and downshift is connected to digital input 9. The discrete signals
from the receiver module are low during a shift so the shift inputs must be configured for active low. Note: Gear selects,
brake light inputs, and other functions unrelated to manual mode shifting should not be changed from the correct base
calibrations. The functions relevant to shifting are Simple Manual Mode, True Manual Mode, Upshift, and Downshift.
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It is recommended to use the manual mode switch to enable the True Manual Mode and Calibration B digital input
function instead of just True Manual Mode in the TCU. This will allow the TCU to have one calibration with normal shifts
for driving in automatic mode, and a different calibration with increased line pressure for manual mode.
NOTE: Consult your transmission builder or TCU tuner before making any changes to line pressure or shift timers.
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6 Multi-Function Display
If the paddle shifter is equipped with the optional multifunction display, a CAN connection to the TCU is required for the
functions described in this section.
1. With the paddle shifter lying flat with the front of the paddle shifter facing up, remove the 8 hex head screws.
3. Remove the top block-off block that is inserted in the display location.
4. Insert the display into the paddle shifter body. The display’s connector should insert into the mating connector on the
circuit board. Push the display until the two bolt holes are aligned with the bolt holes on the paddle shifter.
7. Install the paddle shifter on the steering as previously described in this manual.
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PCS Paddle Shifter User Guide
• Current Gear
• Throttle Position %
• Vehicle Speed
• Manifold Pressure
• Coolant Temperature
• Transmission Temperature
• TCC Lockup %
• Line Pressure %
• Engine RPM / 10
• Torque Converter Slip
• Transmission Slip
• Driveshaft RPM /10
• Turbine RPM /10
• Lever Position
• Display Off
The units for vehicle speed, manifold pressure, and coolant and transmission temperature are selectable from the TCU
software. The current unit selected will be displayed at the end of the item name. During a shift, the display will display
current gear for two seconds and then return to the displayed parameter.
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7 Troubleshooting
If the paddle shifter is equipped with the optional multifunction display, a CAN connection to the TCU is required for the
functions described in this section.
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Powertrain Control Solutions
This section is intended only for users who have experienced wireless issues and/or are replacing a receiver
module.
To enter the paddle shifter menu, hold the rear button located on the back of the display and pull the right paddle. The
menu screen should scroll across the display.
MENU ENTRIES
(1) Normal Operation As defined by the Paddle Shifter manual.
As “Normal Operation” but with wireless channel number
(2) Show Wireless Channel displayed in right-most 5x7 LED panel.
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LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT. Powertrain Control Solutions, LLC. Warrants all merchandise against defects in factory
workmanship and materials for a period of 12 months after purchase. This warranty applies to the first retail purchaser and
covers only those products exposed to normal use or service. Provisions of this warranty shall not apply to Powertrain Control
Solutions, LLC. Product used for a purpose for which it is not designed, or which has been altered in any way that would be
detrimental to the performance or life of the product, or misapplication, misuse, negligence or accident. On any part or product
found to be defective after examination by Powertrain Control Solutions, LLC., Powertrain Control Solutions, LLC. will only repair
or replace the merchandise through the original selling dealer or on a direct basis. Powertrain Control Solutions, LLC. assumes
no responsibility for diagnosis, removal and/or installation labor, loss of vehicle use, loss of time, inconvenience or any other
consequential expenses. The warranties herein are in lieu of any other expressed or implied warranties, including any implied
warranty of merchantability or fitness, and any other obligation on the part of Powertrain Control Solutions, LLC., or selling dealer.
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