VG55
Use this workflow to install ACC-VG-ARGD, a weatherproof enclosure for VG55 Vehicle Gateways on open-cab assets such as ground support equipment (GSE), forklifts, and small yellow iron where the gateway is exposed to weather. The enclosure is a passive accessory: it does not change Vehicle Gateway firmware, licensing, or diagnostic behavior. Diagnostic behavior follows the Vehicle Gateway and cable you install (for example CBL-VG-COPEN or CBL-VG-CPDAUX).
ACC-VG-ARGD is required for installs that are exposed to the elements. The enclosure and 3×1 transit frame are rated IP66 when you use single-hole grommets that match the cable diameter, apply the cable-slot gasket on a clean oil-free surface, follow the torque values in this guide, and mount the enclosure with the transit frame and cable glands facing down. A double grommet (two cables in one insert) is rated IP54. Select the cable for your asset from Vehicle Gateway Cables by Model before or after you assemble the rugged case, as your install plan requires.
Important
Mount ACC-VG-ARGD with the transit frame and cable glands facing down. Wrong orientation, a missing gasket, or a mismatched grommet reduces water ingress protection.
Confirm that ACC-VG-ARGD includes the following parts. Gather a compatible Vehicle Gateway, the cable for your asset, and the tools listed below before you start.
|
Item |
Quantity |
Description |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
VG55 Vehicle Gateway |
1 |
HW-VG55-NA, HW-VG55-EU, HW-VG55-FN |
|
|
ACC-VG-DMB device mounting bracket |
1 |
Midframe bracket for the Vehicle Gateway and optional HW-EI21 |
|
|
Retaining bracket |
1 |
Retains the midframe assembly in the enclosure |
|
|
HW-EI21 Engine Immobilizer |
Optional |
Assembles onto the midframe bracket with the Vehicle Gateway when used |
|
|
Breather vent and nut |
1 |
Pressure-relief vent |
|
|
3×1 transit frame |
1 |
Cable entry frame for sized grommets |
|
|
Enclosure box |
1 |
Outer housing for the Vehicle Gateway |
|
|
Cable grommets |
8 |
2 blank plugs:
|
|
|
Enclosure box lid |
1 |
Lid for outer housing |
|
|
#8-16 × 1/2 in PT screws |
6 |
Included fasteners for enclosure assembly |
|
|
#8-16 × 1/2 in PT screws |
4 |
Included fasteners for enclosure assembly |
|
|
M5×20 mm screws |
2 |
Included |
|
|
M5 nylon-insert nuts |
2 |
Included |
|
|
Long socket-head screws |
4 |
Screw lid screws |
|
|
M5×20 mm screws |
4 |
Included for mounting |
|
|
M4 washers |
8 |
Included for mounting |
|
|
M4 nylock nuts |
4 |
Included for mounting |
|
Additional required tools (not in the ACC-VG-ARGD kit)
|
|||
Match each cable or accessory to the grommet diameter in the tables below. Use a double grommet when two cables of the same diameter share one entry point. A double grommet reduces the enclosure rating from IP66 to IP54.
|
SKU |
Description |
Grommet Size |
|---|---|---|
|
CBL-VG-CPC |
Direct-wire non-diagnostic power cable |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CCCR |
Contactless CAN Reader cable (duckbill open cable) |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-COPEN |
Open-lead diagnostic and power cable (non-CAT heavy duty) |
0.28 in (7 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CCT14 |
Caterpillar 14-pin diagnostic and power cable |
0.28 in (7 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CKM12 |
VG 12-pin Komatsu cable |
0.28 in (7 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CPDAUX |
VG5x operated equipment flying leads cable with integrated aux inputs |
0.28 in (7 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CJ1939 |
Enhanced VG Series J1939 or J1708 (9-pin) |
0.35 in (9 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-DJ1939-VOE |
J1939 (16-pin) / J1962 cable for Volvo operated equipment |
0.35 in (9 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-DJ1939-JOE |
J1939 (9-pin) cable for John Deere operated equipment |
0.35 in (9 mm) |
|
CBL-VG-CCT9 |
Caterpillar 9-pin diagnostic and power cable |
0.35 in (9 mm) |
Note
CBL-VG-CPDAUX combines open-lead power and diagnostics with aux inputs in one jacketed cable so you can seal a single cable egress. Use it instead of CBL-VG-CAUX inside the enclosure when you need aux inputs; CBL-VG-CAUX has no PVC jacket and cannot form an IP-rated seal with a grommet.
|
SKU |
Description |
Grommet Size |
|---|---|---|
|
ACC-IDRDR |
Samsara Card Reader (RFID) |
0.16 in (4 mm) |
|
ACC-RS232 |
USB RS232 accessory cable |
0.16 in (4 mm) |
|
rfIDEAS |
rfIDEAS RFID reader cable |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-CM-AHD1 |
AHD camera connector (1 camera) |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-MC-AIM4 |
AI Multicam Hub |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-CM33 |
Front-facing AI Dash Cam |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-CM34 |
Dual-facing AI Dash Cam |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-CM36 |
360 camera |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
ACC-VG-ACCR |
Duckbill Contactless CAN Reader |
0.20 in (5 mm) |
|
HW-EI21 |
Engine Immobilizer (second-gen) |
0.28 in (7 mm) |
Assemble ACC-VG-ARGD in the following order:
Note
If possible, assemble between 59°F and 95°F (15°C and 35°C).
-
Peel the adhesive backing and apply the gasket to the cable slot. The surface must be clean and free of oils.
-
Attach the breather vent to the small hole with the included nut. Torque to 5.2–6.9 in-lbs (0.6–0.8 N·m).
-
Assemble the Vehicle Gateway onto the midframe bracket. When you also install HW-EI21, assemble the Engine Immobilizer onto the midframe bracket with the Vehicle Gateway.
-
Feed the cables through the slot in the housing.
-
Attach the bracket assembly in the enclosure.
-
Install cable grommets that match each cable diameter from the grommet tables.
-
Clamp down the transit frame. Torque to 17.7–26.6 in-lbs (2–3 N·m).
-
Attach the transit frame. Do not exceed 13.3 in-lbs (1.5 N·m).
-
Screw down the lid. Torque to 8 in-lbs (0.9 N·m).
-
Apply the QR code label to the enclosure.
Any unused QR sticker can pair to any Vehicle Gateway. Each sticker has a unique token; you do not need to match a sticker to a specific serial number ahead of time.
-
Mount the enclosure.
Install the assembled enclosure with the provided M4 hardware. Orient ACC-VG-ARGD so the transit frame and cable glands face down for water ingress protection.
Caution
Keep the enclosure and cables clear of pedals, steering linkage, and other moving parts.
-
(Optional) Pair the QR code label.
Complete pairing in the guided install workflow in the Samsara Fleet App. The QR scan step is optional and does not block the install; skip it for closed-cab Vehicle Gateways that are not using ACC-VG-ARGD.
This installation guide contains typical information specific to products manufactured at the time of its publication. The contents of this guide do not constitute a warranty and are for reference only. Consult applicable local laws and ordinances to determine any installation restrictions. It is the installer's responsibility to comply with all applicable laws and ordinances when installing this hardware.
Do not attempt to repair this product, use any third party replacement parts with this product, or otherwise modify this product except in accordance with product manuals or as otherwise instructed by Samsara. Failure to do so may cause property damage, lead to physical injury, or void your product warranty.
Any installation not in accordance with the instructions in the installation guide or otherwise in the Documentation or use of this product other than as described by the relevant IP rating or recommended operating conditions may result in unexpected downtime, system failure, physical injury, or property damage, including water damage. Failure to follow these directions could result in serious injury or death.
This hardware and any associated software may not be compatible with third party products and/or services and may interfere with the operations of or void warranties for such third party products and/or services.
Do not install hardware while the vehicle is unsecured or while the vehicle is turned on unless instructed to turn on the vehicle by the installation guide. Do not install or adjust hardware while driving or operating the vehicle. Do not install this hardware in a location that could interfere with the driver's visibility or operation of vehicle controls or near airbag panels or within the working range of an airbag. Do not install hardware while the underlying equipment or system is turned on and follow applicable lock out or tag out procedures before installing any equipment as appropriate.
Do not install this hardware on or near flammable or otherwise hazardous materials. This hardware may burst if placed near flammable or other hazardous materials, creating a risk of fire, burn, shock, or other serious injury. Hardware may sustain water damage if the seal is damaged. Do not use it if the housing or housing seal appears damaged.
Failure to follow mounting instructions may create risk of physical injury or property damage from falling objects. Before drilling any holes, check for wiring, fuel, hydraulic or other lines behind the mounting surface.
Vehicle Power
The enclosure houses a Vehicle Gateway connected to 12/24 V vehicle power. Turn the vehicle off, remove the key, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels or lower attachments (forks, booms, loaders) before working. When retrofitting an installed Vehicle Gateway, unplug the 16-pin connector from the Vehicle Gateway before moving it into the enclosure. Do not install while the vehicle or equipment is energized; follow applicable lockout/tagout procedures. Failure to do so can result in electric shock, fire, or unexpected equipment movement.
Mounting and Drilling
Before drilling into the asset, check behind the mounting surface for fuel, hydraulic, pneumatic and brake lines and electrical wiring. Mount only to a rigid surface that can support the assembly and is not part of a ROPS, FOPS, overhead guard or cab frame using the provided M4 hardware, washers and nylock nuts. A loose enclosure can detach from a moving vehicle and cause injury or property damage.
Not for Hazardous Locations
ACC-VG-ARGD and the VG55 Vehicle Gateway are not certified for explosive atmospheres. Do not install on equipment operated in areas where flammable gases, vapors or combustible dust may be present.
Working Outdoors and on the Ramp
Installation is typically performed on open-cab equipment exposed to weather. Do not install during lightning, high wind, or when the mounting surface is wet or icy. Wear appropriate PPE (eye protection, gloves) and follow the site's ground-vehicle and apron safety rules. Engine and exhaust components on GSE and forklifts can cause burns; allow them to cool before working nearby.
Pinch Points and Sharp Edges
Keep fingers clear when clamping the transit frame and closing the lid. Cut cable ties flush. Route cables so they cannot be pinched between the lid and the box.
Torque
Use the specified torque values: breather vent 5.2–6.9 in-lbs (0.6–0.8 N·m); transit-frame clamp 17.7–26.6 in-lbs (2–3 N·m); transit-frame attachment screws maximum 13.3 in-lbs (1.5 N·m); lid screws 8 in-lbs (0.9 N·m). Over-tightening can crack the enclosure and strip the thread-forming screws; under-tightening compromises the seal.
Water Ingress Protection
Mount the enclosure with the transit frame / cable entry facing down. Apply the cable-slot gasket to a clean, dry, oil-free surface. Use the correct grommet size for each cable and install blank plugs in unused positions. Do not route CBL-VG-CAUX, heat-shrink-covered leads, or field-spliced wiring through a grommet — they will not seal. A double grommet (two cables in one insert) reduces the ingress rating from IP66 to IP54. Do not remove, block, or paint over the breather vent.
Cleaning
Do not direct a high-pressure washer or steam jet at the cable entry, breather vent, or lid seam. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners on the enclosure.
Compatibility
Use only with HW-VG55-NA, HW-VG55-EU, HW-VG55-FN and the cables and accessories listed in the grommet size table. Do not enclose other Samsara or third-party devices in ACC-VG-ARGD; the enclosure has not been validated for them.
Thermal
The sealed enclosure reduces cooling of the Vehicle Gateway. Do not mount near exhaust, radiators or other heat sources, or where the enclosure is fully surrounded by metal panels.
Wireless Performance
Mounting under metal decks or hoods, or inside metal cavities, degrades GPS, cellular and Bluetooth performance. Where possible, mount with a clear view of the sky.
Engine Immobilizer (If HW-EI21 Is Installed Inside the Enclosure)
Follow the HW-EI21 installation guide. Verify the asset is stationary and cannot move before testing immobilization.
Protective Structures (ROPS / FOPS / Cab Frame)
Never drill into, weld to, or attach screws or bolts of any size to a Roll-Over Protective Structure, Falling-Object Protective Structure, overhead guard or cab frame. Drilling voids the structure's certification and can cause it to fail in a rollover, resulting in death or serious injury. Identify ROPS/FOPS components in the equipment's operator manual before choosing a mounting location. Where no non-structural surface exists, use a clamp-on mount approved by the equipment manufacturer.
Moving Parts and Stored Energy
Do not mount the enclosure or route cables near mast chains, lift cylinders, belts, drive shafts, articulation joints, steering linkage, pedals, or conveyor belts. Lower all attachments (forks, booms, belt loaders, cargo decks) to the ground or rest position and relieve hydraulic pressure before working. Contact with moving or pressurized components can cause crushing, amputation, or high-pressure fluid injection injury.
Do Not Modify Vehicle Safety Systems
Do not splice into, disconnect, or route cables through wiring for brakes, steering, seat/deadman switches, interlocks, lighting or the vehicle's own safety controls. Interference with these systems can cause loss of vehicle control.
Weight and Mounting
The assembled enclosure with Vehicle Gateway and accessories adds mass to the mounting surface. Mount only to a rigid surface capable of supporting the assembly under vibration and shock. Do not mount to thin sheet-metal panels, covers, grilles, or cowlings that can fatigue and release the enclosure while the vehicle is moving.
Cable Strain and Chafing
Secure cables every 12 in (300 mm) with cable ties or clips. Protect cables passing through or over metal edges with grommets or split loom. Leave a drip loop below the transit frame so water runs off before the cable entry. Avoid torsional load on the Vehicle Gateway 16-pin and 8-pin connectors. Strained or chafed cables can cause intermittent connection, heat build-up, short circuit, or fire.
Do Not Mount Where the Enclosure Obstructs Vision, Access, or Egress
Keep the enclosure clear of mirrors, lights, reflectors, warning beacons, fire-extinguisher brackets, emergency stops, steps, grab handles and operator access paths.
Exposure to Fluids and Chemicals
The enclosure is rated for water and dust ingress (IP66 with single grommets). It is not rated for continuous immersion, de-icing fluid, glycol, fuel, hydraulic oil, or battery electrolyte spray. Mount away from fill points, breathers and spray paths. Do not mount below the vehicle's splash line or in wheel-spray zones.
Inspection
Inspect the enclosure, lid seal, gasket, grommets and mounting hardware at each vehicle service interval. Replace damaged or deformed seals. Check the mounting bolt torque periodically; the enclosure is exposed to continuous vibration.
Fuel and Fueling Areas
Do not install, service, or open the enclosure while the vehicle is being fueled or within a designated fueling or aircraft-refueling zone. The Vehicle Gateway and enclosure are not rated for explosive atmospheres. Fuel vapor can ignite from electrical connection or disconnection.
Aircraft Apron Operations
Perform installation only in a designated maintenance area, not on the active ramp near aircraft. Jet blast, propeller wash, moving aircraft and vehicles present a serious injury hazard. Follow airport authority ramp safety rules, wear high-visibility clothing and hearing protection.
Foreign Object Debris (FOD)
Account for every screw, nut, washer, grommet blank, cable-tie clipping and packaging item. Loose hardware left on the apron can be ingested by aircraft engines. Do not use the enclosure packaging or loose parts on the ramp.
Electric GSE (High-Voltage Traction Systems)
Many electric tugs, belt loaders and pushbacks use traction batteries above 48 V. Do not connect to, or route cables alongside, the traction battery, motor controller or charging circuit. Connect only to the 12/24 V auxiliary system specified in the Vehicle Gateway cable guide. Follow the equipment manufacturer's high-voltage lockout procedure.
Belt Loaders and Cargo Loaders
Do not mount on the conveyor boom, scissor deck, bridge or any elevating section. Mount on the fixed chassis only, clear of pinch points at the boom pivot and deck rails.
Pushback Tractors
Do not mount on the towbar, hitch, cradle, or nose-lift assembly. Keep the enclosure clear of the towbar swing radius.
De-Icing
GSE in de-icing operations is exposed to Type I/IV glycol fluids under pressure. Mount the enclosure where it is shielded from direct spray and rinse promptly per the cleaning notice.
Battery Charging Areas (Electric Forklifts)
Charging lead-acid traction batteries releases hydrogen gas, which is explosive. Do not install, service, or open the enclosure inside a battery-charging area or while the truck is on charge. Disconnect the charger and move the truck to a ventilated area free of ignition sources before working. Follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(g) or local equivalent.
Traction Battery and Electrolyte
Do not mount the enclosure on or over the traction battery, battery cover or battery compartment vents. Sulfuric-acid electrolyte can cause severe burns; battery gases can ignite. Keep metal tools and the enclosure hardware away from exposed battery terminals — a dropped tool can short the battery and cause arc flash or fire.
LPG, CNG and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks
Do not install near the fuel cylinder, regulator, fuel lines, or hydrogen storage/fueling components. Do not install during cylinder exchange or refueling. Fuel gas leaks can ignite from electrical connection or disconnection.
Mast, Carriage and Overhead Guard
Never mount the enclosure or route cables on the mast, carriage, lift chains, tilt cylinders or forks. Never drill into the overhead guard (a FOPS structure). Mast and carriage movement can sever cables and crush hands.
Counterweight and Hot Surfaces
On internal-combustion forklifts, the counterweight area and exhaust can exceed safe touch temperature. Allow the truck to cool before installing near the rear of the vehicle.
Indoor / Low-Clearance Operation
Mount the enclosure so it does not increase the overall width or height of the truck or protrude into rack aisles. Racking impact will destroy the enclosure and can dislodge the Vehicle Gateway cable.
Wash-Down and Cold Storage
Trucks used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical or cold-storage sites are frequently washed down and cycled between freezer and ambient temperature. Mount with the cable entry down, confirm all grommets are correctly sized and seated, and expect condensation inside the enclosure if the breather vent is missing or blocked.
Articulation, Swing and Slew
Do not mount on, or route cables across, the articulation joint of a loader, the swing/slew ring of an excavator, or the boom of a telehandler. Lower the boom or bucket, engage the swing lock and shut down before working near these components. Crushing hazard.
Hydraulic Systems
Do not mount near hydraulic hoses, fittings or cylinders. Hydraulic fluid at operating pressure can penetrate skin and cause serious injury. Do not disturb hose routing or clamps when securing Vehicle Gateway cables.
Diagnostic Port and OEM Harness
Connect only to the OEM-specified diagnostic or power connector using the correct Samsara cable (CBL-VG-CCT9, CBL-VG-CCT14, CBL-VG-CKM12, CBL-VG-DJ1939-VOE, CBL-VG-DJ1939-JOE, or CBL-VG-CPDAUX). Do not cut or splice into the OEM harness; doing so can disable machine protection features and void the equipment warranty.
Vibration and Shock
Compact equipment transmits high vibration and shock to bolt-on accessories. Use the provided nylock nuts and washers; do not substitute non-locking hardware. Inspect mounting torque after the first 50 operating hours and then at each service interval.
Dust and Debris
Even closed-cab yellow iron is exposed to heavy particulates. Keep the breather vent unobstructed and clear accumulated debris from the vent and cable entry at service intervals.
Explosive Atmospheres
ACC-VG-ARGD and the VG55 are not certified for hazardous (classified) locations — Class I/II/III Division 1 or 2 (NEC/CEC), or ATEX/IECEx Zones 0/1/2 or 20/21/22. Do not install or operate on equipment used in fuel storage/dispensing areas, paint booths, grain elevators, chemical plants, mining, or any area where flammable gas, vapor, mist or combustible dust may be present. Use an appropriately certified Samsara product (for example, a HazLoc-certified Asset Gateway) where hazardous-location operation is required.
Enclosure Is Not a Barrier to Hazardous Atmospheres
The IP66 enclosure protects against water and dust ingress only. It does not make the Vehicle Gateway intrinsically safe or explosion-protected and must not be used as a means of introducing non-certified equipment into a classified area.
Electrostatic Discharge
In dry or dusty environments the polycarbonate enclosure can accumulate static charge. Discharge to the vehicle chassis before opening the lid near sensitive equipment, and do not open the enclosure in an area where a flammable atmosphere could be present.
Corrosive and Marine Environments
Salt air, de-icing salts, fertilizer and wash chemicals accelerate corrosion of fasteners and connectors. Use the supplied stainless-steel hardware only; inspect for corrosion at service intervals.
Extreme Cold
Device function and impact performance will degrade at extreme cold temperatures. Operating below −40°F (−40°C) is not recommended.
Radio Interference and Sensitive Equipment
The Vehicle Gateway contains cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GNSS radios. Observe site rules for radio transmitters (for example, during aircraft refueling, blasting operations, or near medical equipment). Refer to the Vehicle Gateway installation guide for regulatory statements.
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