Advise_I'm to the point I hate my truck

[machinemover]

I am so frustrated with this thing I'm going nuts. This is my 4th Dodge diesel, I've gone through all the lift pump, trans problems, rearend issues and everything in the past. I bought my new one in April and now have 80,000 miles on it. First off, this is the first truck I've run an edge attitude, honestly I'm not impressed, I'll ber going back to a TST in the future. I run a 40' cargo trailer and this thing runs like pooh! I'm leaking PS fluid from the gear box and I'm on the road with njo time, I'm using a 1/2 qt a day. I took my truck in before I went on this trip, they replaced the PS pump, charged me $300 and a day later I was out of fluid, great MEchs at DC gotta tell ya. I asked tyhem to check the rough running issue, I was told DC says it's water in the fuel, I said "check the sample I left in the cab right before I brought the truck in". No water, no dirt, no sediment at all. They told me since I modified the gas tank (I did put the vent kit in, I did replace the lines with flex fule line and clamps instead of the quick disconnects the are OEM) I was not covered for water issues on my warrantee. They also said the problem could be an out of balalnce fly wheel, which they also said "the fly wheel is not considered part of the engine and therefor not warenteed". Truck runs horrible, no codes, I took the edge off and the same issue, I'm not sure where to go with this problem, I am at the point of thinking of trading it in when I get home if I can get a good deal on another truck, but I'd rather not do this. I'm also thinking of taking it somewhere and just saying. I HATE MY TRUCK, FIX IT SO I'LL FINALLY LOVE THIS JALOPY, PLEASE. Any advise for a long time Dodge owner is appriciated.

 

[TheBigSgt]

Being that I sell them and own them, I hope I can help you out. If you ever come up to Utah, feel free to brin it to Layton hills Dodge. We have some reat guys there and I don't fear having them work on my truck. Nobody is perfect, but I couldn't be happier with there work. I hope you will be too. Will is the service manager, Richard is the Service advisor to talk to and Bobby is the shop manager. Everybody has good and bad things happen, hope you have more a good trip.

 

[Forrest Nearing]

come down to TX and trade it in on a new one.

 

[FDavid]

You modify your truck, it breaks and your mad at DC

 

[Prairie Dog]

Boy, if I ever need any salt I'll know where to find it!

DC has not made any connection between the mods and the failure. They simply dont know whats wrong and are using the mods as an excuse.

MM, I feel your pain, you just need to find a competent dealer.

Best of luck to you.



Scotty

 

[Forrest Nearing]

You modify your truck, it breaks and your mad at DC

you think the fuel lines caused the power steering leaks?

 

[PatrickMarshall]

Have you tried Jones Ford/Dodge/Chrysler in Wickenburg? I had a problem about 6 months ago and they really took care of me. They have the only transmission guy in AZ that is authorized to rebuild transmissions in Dodges. Their shop is the typical small town dealership that knows how to talk to the customers instead of saying drop it off and we'll look at it, see ya later. It was well worth the long drive out there.

 

[FDavid]

you think the fuel lines caused the power steering leaks?

Maybe english is not your first language? Re-read...

I asked tyhem to check the rough running issue... . They told me since I modified the gas tank (I did put the vent kit in, I did replace the lines with flex fule line and clamps instead of the quick disconnects the are OEM) I was not covered for water issues on my warrantee

 

[CBrahs]

Was cruising around and found this. Hope it helps or sheds some light.







THE DRBIII® FLASH FILES FOR THIS BULLETIN ARE AVAILABLE ON

DealerCONNECT.

SUBJECT:

Flash: 5. 9L Turbo-Diesel Engine System Enhancements

OVERVIEW:

This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Engine Control Module

(ECM) with new software.

MODELS:

2003 - 2005 (DR / DH) Ram Truck

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 5. 9L turbo diesel engine

(sales codes ETC and ETH respectively).

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

The following enhancements are included with this software:

1. Improved engine cooling (radiator fan activation) and prevention of possible engine

overheat. When coolant temperature faults are present the radiator fan is enabled

(turned on) during vehicle operation.

2. Correction to oil pressure reading when engine is operating at higher engine

temperatures above 91°C (195°F).

3. Improvement to the Temperature Sensor Rationality Test to prevent possible false test

failures and their following related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's):

a. DTC P0071 - Inlet Air Temperature Sensor Rationality.

b. DTC P0111 - Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor Rationality.

c. DTC P0514 - Battery Temperature Sensor Rationality.

4. Additional Water-In-Fuel (WIF) warning added to indicate that the operator has had a

WIF DTC P2269 and has continued to operate (drive) the vehicle in excess of 500

miles without draining the water from the fuel filter. The following is the new WIF DTC

that has been added:

a. DTC P0169 - WIF Too Long Error

DIAGNOSIS:

Using a Scan Tool (DRBIII®) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures available in

TechCONNECT, verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTCs are

present record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further

with this bulletin.

NUMBER: 18-022-06

GROUP: Vehicle Performance

DATE: July 13, 2006

If the vehicle operator describes or experiences the Symptom/Condition, perform the

Repair Procedure.

SPECIAL TOOLS / EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:

NPN Battery Charger

CH2002 General Purpose Interface Bus Cable Assembly

CH6000A Scan Tool (DRBIII®)

CH7000A J1962 Cable with red DRBIII® connector

TechCONNECT Workstation

NOTE: An updated J1962 cable has been released. This cable has a red colored

connector at the DRBIII® connection. Use this cable whenever a flash is

being performed.

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

NOTE: Whenever a controller is programmed, the software in the DRBIII® must be

programmed with the latest revision level available.

NOTE: If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash process should be

restarted and then follow the directions on the DRBIII®.

NOTE: Remove any unnecessary PCMCIA cards prior to starting a DRB III® flash.

1. Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, remove any old flash reprogramming

files from the DRBIII® memory. To clear the memory from the MAIN MENU power up

the DRBIII® and then:

a. Simultaneously press the “MORE” and “YES” keys.

b. A screen will appear requesting a “COLD BOOT”.

c. Follow the on screen instructions by selecting the “F4” key.

d. When the DRBIII® reboots to the MAIN MENU, proceed to Step #2

2. With the ignition switch in the “RUN” position, determine and record the “ECM part

number” of the ECM currently in the vehicle. Using the DRBIII® select:

a. "DRBIII® Standalone"

b. "1998 - 2007 Diagnostics"

c. "All (Except Below)"

d. “Engine”

e. “Module Display”

f. Record the “ECM part number” on the repair order for later reference.

NOTE: If the ECM is not operational, the “ECM part number” can be obtained from

the label on the controller. For 2003 and later vehicles, if the label on the

controller is not legible, record the “Reference No. ” for use later. The

“Reference No. ” is located in the Reference No. box at the top, center of the

Engine Data Plate (Fig. 1). Do not use the reference number shown in the

figure. The Engine Data Plate is located on the intake side of the breather

cover or affixed to the APPS bracket.

18-022-06 -2-

Fig. 1 ENGINE DATA PLATE (2003 AND LATER SHOWN)

1 - ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER

2 - REFERENCE NUMBER

3 - DATE OF ENGINE MANUFACTURE

3. Page back to the “Main Menu”

4. Determine if the vehicle is equipped with SKIM. Using the DRBIII® select:

a. “DRBIII Standalone”

b. “1998 - 2007 Diagnostics”

c. “All”

d. “System Monitor”

e. “J1850 Module Scan”

f. Look for “SKIM” in the list of modules.

5. If the vehicle is not equipped with SKIM then proceed to Step #6. If the vehicle is

equipped with SKIM obtain the vehicle Personal Identification Number (PIN) before

continuing with Step #6. This information is available from:

a. The original selling invoice.

b. The DealerCONNECT system under the “Parts” tabs - select “Key Codes”.

c. By contacting the District Manager.

CAUTION: Failure to install the SKIM pin number into the module after flashing the

Cummins ECM will cause a start and stall condition.

6. Install a battery charger and verify that the charging rate provides approximately 13. 2 -

13. 8 volts. Set the battery charger to continuous charge. Do not allow the charger to

time out during the flash process. Remove the charger from the battery when the flash

process is complete.

-3- 18-022-06

NOTE: When reprogramming a Cummins ECM be sure to do the following;

• Download the flash file from TechCONNECT to the DRBIII® with the

DRBIII® disconnected from the vehicle.

• Download the flash file from the DRBIII® to the vehicle with the DRBIII®

disconnected from TechCONNECT.

7. Connect the DRBIII® to TechCONNECT. Open TechTOOLS and verify that the

"DRBIII® Status: Connected" message is in the upper right corner of the TechTOOLS

screen.

8. Enter the old Cummins “ECM part number” obtained from the DRBIII® in Step #2 into

the “Parts Criteria” window.

9. Select “Show Updates”.

10. Highlight the proper flash file from the list:

a. If the old “ECM part number” is known, highlight the flash file listed, based on the

old “ECM part number” recorded earlier Step #2.

b. If the old part number is not known, highlight the proper flash file based on the

Reference No. located in the “Ref. No. ” box, at the top, center of the Engine Data

Plate (Fig. 1).

11. Select the “DRBIII” radio button which is next to the “Download/Update” button.

12. Select the “Download/Update” button.

13. Monitor the "Flash Download/Update Progress" window on the TechCONNECT and

follow the instructions on TechCONNECT. When the flash process is complete,

proceed to the next step.

14. Disconnect the DRBIII® from TechCONNECT.

15. Connect the DRBIII® to the vehicle.

16. Download the flash file from the DRBIII® to the vehicle. Using the DRBIII® select:

a. “Vehicle Flash”

b. Follow the directions on the DRBIII® screen. When the flash process is complete,

proceed to the next step.

17. If the vehicle is equipped with SKIM, proceed to Step #18. If the vehicle is not

equipped with SKIM, proceed to Step #19.

18. On vehicles equipped with SKIM, transfer the VIN and Security Key information from

the SKIM to the ECM. Using the DRBIII® select:

a. “DRBIII Standalone”

b. “1998 - 2007 Diagnostics”

c. “All”

d. “Theft Alarm”

e. “SKIM”

f. “Miscellaneous”

g. “Cummins ECM Replaced”

h. Follow the directions on the DRBIII® screen. When the process is complete,

proceed to Step #20.

19. On vehicles not equipped with SKIM, manually enter the VIN in the ECM. Using the

DRBIII® select:

a. “DRBIII Standalone”

b. “1998 - 2007 Diagnostics”

c. “All”

d. ”Engine”

e. “Cummins Controller (ECM/ENGINE)”

f. “Miscellaneous”

g. “CM84X Check VIN”

18-022-06 -4-

h. Follow the directions on the DRBIII® screen. When the process is complete,

proceed to next step.

NOTE: Due to the Cummins controller programming procedure, a DTC may be set in

other modules (PCM, TCM, BCM, MIC, SKIM, etc. ) within the vehicle, if so

equipped. Some DTC's may cause the MIL to illuminate. Check all modules

using “Module Scan”, record the DTC's, and erase these DTC's prior to

returning the vehicle to the customer. Erase any DTC's in the PCM only after

all other modules have had their DTC's erased.

NOTE: The following step is required by law.

20. Type the necessary information on the “Authorized Modification Label” p/n

04275086AB and attach near the VECI label (Fig. 2).

Fig. 2 AUTHORIZED MODIFICATION LABEL

1 - ENGINE CONTROL MODULE P/N (INSERT P/N) USED

2 - CHANGE AUTHORITY: TSB XX-XXX-XX

3 - DEALER CODE: XXXXX

4 - DATE: XX-XX-XX

POLICY:

Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.

TIME ALLOWANCE:

Labor Operation No: Description Amount

18-19-04-16 Erase and Reprogram - Engine Control Module

(ECM) (B)

0. 8 Hrs.

FAILURE CODE:

ZZ Service Action

-5- 18-022-06

 

[Bob4x4]

They have the only transmission guy in AZ that is authorized to rebuild transmissions in Dodges. .

Who told you that?? :-laf :-laf



Bob

 

[machinemover]

first off, you guys that feel just a mear mention of an after market box does not mean we are stupid enough to abuse out trucks. I have been useing aftermarket boxes for 10 years now and only once had a problem resulting from the box and that was when I made the mistake of loaning my truck to someone.

Second, I never mentioned a relation of my PS gear box leak and an aftermarket box, Just stating the wonderful caliper of diagnois of DC mechanics.

I have found I can not trust DC mechanics in general. I have been lied to, cheated and done wrong enough times that I just don't believe them anymore. (BTW my '03, had a vibration, I was told "you have a bent drive shaft, you must have run over something", they replaced the drive shaft, charged me $400 for the shaft plus labor, denyed warrantee saying "this is not part of the drive train" and the problem turned out to be bad u-joints. I think I have a case to be upset with DC)



I am 50 years old and don't need to impress anyone with my truck, I just want a good running truck I can rely on and that can pull my 40' cargo trailer, that is not overloaded.

AM I asking to much?

 

[machinemover]

PatrickMarshall



I may just try them in wickenburg when I get home, problem may be I could have over 100,000 on the truck by then. I'm telling you, this thing runs worse then my 65 corvair when I was a kid.

 

[PatrickMarshall]

MM, I got turned on to these guys by a very reputable transmission guy in Phx. He told me that the particular transmission guy working there was one of only two dealerships in AZ that actually rebuilt transmissions instead of just putting new ones or rebuilt ones in. I went there because the auto transmission on my 98' (195K) was starting to give me troubles.

I pulled in there, asked where the transmission guy was, they pointed out in the garage area, I walked back there, introduced myself, and told him I was recommended to come see him. He grabbed his scanner, asked where my truck was and we went for a ride. He pulled back into the garage area and went into the shop with his scanner, came out, said please don't touch the truck for the next few minutes, he plugged the scanner in and said my ECU needed to be reflashed and he did it right then and there. While it was being reflashed we spoke of the new trucks coming out and told him I wanted to get a new truck. He said when I get it, bring it over and he will put a shift kit in it. I asked about other adds and he introduced me to the mechanic and he said he can do just about anything I want to the truck.

Never even spoke to the service guy, don't know if they even have one, I was on my way in a hour or so and figured this place is an exception to the rule. I never trusted dealerships before, but this one has my vote.

 

[CBrahs]

MM

The reason I posted this bulletin is to hopefuly help you in your quest. I think you could use it in your defense. Has this update ever been done or has your service advisor ever told you about an update for this condition and if not then your WIF may not have been working properly. See where I am going with this. I hope this helps. If you want, PM me with a fax # and I will print it out and fax the doc to you.

 

[machinemover]

I may be mistaken, but doesn't the update say 2003-2005? mines an 06??

 

[Bekim]

Just curious. You tow a 40 ft trailer that weighs less than 12,000 lbs?
Mike
###

 

[MMeier]

Who told you that?? :-laf :-laf



Bob

What I was wondering... "authorized" by whom?

 

[CBrahs]

I may be mistaken, but doesn't the update say 2003-2005? mines an 06??

MM you are about one grumpy individual. Shoot someone down for trying to help someone out. We did a bulletin on my 07 that did not come up for the 07 but when you typed in the PCM part # that the star scanner gives you and then go to tech connect and type in that part # it told us that mine was UPDATABLE and gave us the update and we did it! So before you start shooting someone down for TRYING TO HELP YOU! maybe you should take in account that maybe yours NEEDS the dang update. Have a happy thanksgiving MM.

 

[machinemover]

I'm not trying to shoot anyone down, sorry if I came across like that. I asked for advise and do appriciate it, I was only pointing out it says "03-05" update. I have no idea if they have fixed this issue for '06 or not. I assume DC reports would be up to date with there relase bulletins, maybe I should expect the same out of them as I do out of there mechanics, Don't trust what they say. I agree I am getting a bit sarcastic. I have been through 4 Dodges so far. '97 put $10,000 in repairs in, '00 I put $15,000 in repairs in, '03 I put $15,000 in repairs in and now my '06. I'm tierd of feeding DC families instead of my own. Yes I do work my trucks, but come on there suppose to be built to take the work horse life style. I see guys pulling 3-4 cars on a 53' trailer and I can assure you they are pulling more weight then me. I have to admit the drive trains are much stronger then they use to be, but the DC parts and the DC service is to be desired. My 2 Cents! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone, I am stuck in a motel, but my wife is with me so I am grateful.

 

[CBrahs]

Have a happy Thanksgiving too. I would ask the tech if that update has been done. If the WIF light is not working properly then you have some leg to stand on when it comes to calling DC. I would call them and start a CAIR complaint. I do not know if it will help but I would want to know if yor truck has the new update. Again, I am sorry if I came accross a little rough as well. Just trying to help.