Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Truck runs and quits??

[The_Brillo]

I have a 99 Dodge Ram with the 24 Valve 5. 9L Cummins. I'm rather new to the doge world and have only had this truck for a few months. The issue that I'm having is that the truck engine just stops, both driving and at idle. this usually happens when running for a good 1/2 to 1 hour, when it turns off it is just like turning off the key, there are no dash lights, and if i try to restart, the engine cranks over but does not start. If i wait a while, a few minutes, sometimes only one or two the engine will start and run, then quit again in a few minutes..... I'm running approximately 12-13 pounds of fuel pressure out of the lift pump, and was told that the injector was rebuilt approximately 20K ago. the engine has 165K total and when running, runs great, plenty of power and torque.

Any suggetions???

 

[Missouri Mule]

Try posting in 2nd generation 24 valve engine 98. 5 to 02.

 

[AWeaver]

is the truck throwing any codes?

 

[The_Brillo]

No Codes at all, it was noted that the temperature gage never comes up to temperature, the thermostat should be a 190 degrees but bearly reaches the first mark on the gage the radiator hoses can be held by hand... . some one has suggested to replace the temp senser and the thermostat... . Not always starts when cold, does get hot to produce heat in the cab but do not know yet if up to temperature.

 

[JLandry]

No Codes at all, it was noted that the temperature gage never comes up to temperature, the thermostat should be a 190 degrees but bearly reaches the first mark on the gage the radiator hoses can be held by hand... . some one has suggested to replace the temp senser and the thermostat... . Not always starts when cold, does get hot to produce heat in the cab but do not know yet if up to temperature.

It sounds like you're possibly chasing several different problems at once. If the engine is indeed not coming up to the proper temperature, then definitely replace the coolant and thermostat. The thermostat could be stuck open. After doing that, run the engine until the coolant warms up and see how the engine behaves. The ECM references the coolant temperature to adjust fuel injection, so strange behavior can result if the coolant is not coming up to temp properly.



If after you solve the engine temperature issue the engine is still shutting down unexpectedly and won't restart, I'm wondering if VP44 fuel injection pump might be losing power due to a failing relay. When this problem happens, try swapping out the relay labeled "FUEL PUMP" or "FUEL INJ PUMP" located in the PDC (Power Distribution Center) with another non-critical relay of the same size (such as the wiper or horn relay). The PDC is located on the driver's side fender under the hood. If swapping out the relay seems to cure the problem, replace the relay. It can be purchased at any auto parts store.



Another relay to try swapping out when this problem occurs is the ASD (Auto Shut Down) relay also located in the PDC.



Please keep us posted.



John L.

 

[The_Brillo]

John Thanks for the advice I'm aware of the ASD relay and infact did play with that a few days ago. but I will pursue the temp stuff and other relays then let all know... Thanks again Mike C.

 

[Missouri Mule]

The 12 vavles had a similar problem with the engine speed sensor connector being dirty or bent/loose pins which caused the engine to stall any time.

I would check out your crank speed senosor/connector (clean and inspect).

 

[The_Brillo]

Thanks Bill

I will add that to the other things suggested, I will keep all informed as I go Thanks a lot for the help. MIKE C.