Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 98 12-valve 4x4 dies when turning in reverse

[UhhhDawson]

I recently bought a 98 2500 12-valve 4x4. i already know the idle needs to be turned up about 75 rpms to make the truck start correctly. right now when i turn the key the starter turns over quite a bit until the engine turns over. if i press slightly on the accelerator though it fires right up. anyway, the problem is the truck dies when in reverse. will turning up the idle solve this problem as well? the only time it doesnt die is if backing in a straight line with no hills. if there is turning or backing up a hill the only way to keep it from cutting off is to give it alot of fuel. i would appreciate any advice!

 

[tp0d]

First, Welcome to the TDR!! Glad to have ya!



The idle is a good bit of your problem. I`m not sure exactly how to set it, as my '96 hasnt had an issue w/ idle. But a search here will definetly find your answer.



As for the dieing in reverse while cutting the wheels, its possible your power steering pump may be partially clogged. (which the low idle just magnifies the problem) Theres a filter on the low pressure suction side, which can be removed and cleaned. I can also highly recommend to change your fluid to full clear synthetic if you havent already. Made a world of difference in mine. (turkey baster works great for this)



Fill out your signature (sig) by going here https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/profile.php?do=editsignature

That info will help us help you. (this is info and description of your truck, see below for mine)



edit-- Ohya, do you know if the KDP fix (killer dowel pin) has been done on your truck? There is an easy way to be sure (bout a 1-2hr job), by using the KDP jig kit. I maintain the jig for the NorthEast region, but the jig can go anywhere it is needed. Its currently out with another TDR member fixing a '97, but will be avail in about 2wks max. PM me if you have any questions.





-j

 

[wcjp]

The idle will help or cure the problem. In this heat the AC is likely on. This contributes to the truck cutting out. The long crank is likely dryrot fuel lines. The dryrot will leak air into the system but not leak fuel out. Replace the fuel supply/return lines. Also, check the fuel preheater screen and gaskets. The fuel preheater stuff is sold as a kit from Cummins. The Dodge version has the Fleetguard stamp costing triple the price. The fuel lines are significantly easier to change with the front driveshaft and starter removed. Since the starter is out swap out the starter contacts. This is cheap insurance against buying a new one. On my 96' the main air intrusion was the fuel preheater-lift pump soft line.



I used marine grade diesel fuel line. It's twice the thickness of standard automotive diesel line. LarryB sells the starter contacts and fuel line. The fuel line kit he sells wasn't available when I did mine. Here's a website that should help with your maintenance and idle turn up.





http://dodgeram.org/support_pgs/diesel_ix.htm