Taylor Slush Machine Message: Set Clock, Invalid Date

What does Taylor INVALID DATE mean?

This message appears on the Taylor Model C300 slush freezer when the date is being set. Taylor's operator manual lists it among its user interface messages in Table 5-1 and explains it in the explanations that follow. The display reads "SET CLOCK... INVALID DATE," and the manual says it appears when an invalid date is entered, for example a day number that exceeds the days of that month. Typing 31 for a 30-day month, or 30 for February, produces it. The control checks the date against a calendar before it accepts it, and it refuses an entry that cannot exist. Nothing in the freezer has failed, and the manual describes it as a data entry message. The action is to re-enter a valid date. The manual does not say whether the clock keeps its old date until you do, or whether the freezer's cooling is affected, and it gives no other causes. The date matters because the control uses the clock for time-based functions, so set it correctly instead of leaving the screen.

Affected models and control systems

Taylor Model C300 slush freezer (frozen carbonated beverage). The message is listed in the C300 operator's manual, section 5 user interface, and it is not tied to a board revision or other model limit.

Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.

What you may notice

• The display shows "SET CLOCK... INVALID DATE"
• The date you typed is not accepted
• The freezer is otherwise running normally

Possible causes

Likely causes — what usually sits behind INVALID DATE on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.

• A date was entered that does not exist for that month, for example more days than the month has
• The month and day were entered in the wrong order
• The month setting was changed after the day was entered, leaving a day that does not fit
• A key press was missed or doubled when entering the number

Safe checks before calling for service

How a technician diagnoses INVALID DATE

1. Confirm the message is the date entry message and not a freezer alarm.
2. Check the entered date against the calendar month.
3. Enter the date again and confirm acceptance.
4. Check the displayed time and date after leaving the Set Clock screen.
5. Test the keypad if valid dates are not accepted.

Technical reference

Document

Operator's Manual Model C300 Slush Freezer - Original Operating Instructions

Edition

055072-M; original publication 9/26/08, updated 9/2/2020

Models / control

Taylor Model C300 slush freezer (frozen carbonated beverage)

Section

Section 5 User Interface - Table 5-1 Fault Messages p. 5-2 (PDF p. 20); fault explanations pp. 5-3 to 5-4 (PDF pp. 21-22)

Checked

October 2026

We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.