Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Engine goes to Idle

[Catahoula]

I have a 98. 5 3500 quad cab, 5 speed. Banks Hi-rise, big exhaust, Motto box. The truck will jump to an idle(once in a while) while I am running along at maybe 2000 rpm. I can depress the Accelerator and nothing happens. I can let off and depress again and nothing happens. The third time I depress the accelerator the engine returns to normal and runs fine. This never happens when I am pulling a load on open road or under any strain no matter how slight. Only when the engine is just coasting along.

I removed the battery cables and replaced them. No change. The Check Engine light always comes on when this happens.

I am new to this and to TDR so help if you can.

 

[Turbo Horseman]

I'm sure there are a few folks who can offer some insight... you might want to try the 911 forum.

 

[TimWhite]

I have a 98. 2 24 valve mine does the same thing. I was told that it was Throttle positioning scensor... . sometime it will do it at low speeds creapin through a parkin lot and other around 3rd gear. pushing trottle pedal does nothing but once you let off and push again it's like it resets it and check engine light comes on been doin it for 4 months now nothing has happened to it not happening often. i am just reluctant to spend $400. 00 for the part to fix it... .

 

[McDowra]

have you checked the codes? What codes did you get? BTW welcome to TDR



Tim

 

[Ted Jannetty]

I have fixed several trucks with this same problem, it is the TPS.

It is unfortunate that you have to buy the whole assembly when the sensor unbolts from the Bracket and lever.

 

[Catahoula]

Thanks for your help and information. I had to leave on a run just after I posted this thread and I just got back. The stalling is getting worse but it sounds like all agree on what my problem is. I will try to find a sensor and see if that fixes it. Thanks again.

 

[Catahoula]

Today the speedometer quit working until I reach about 30 mph.

The ABS and BREAK light is on and won't go off (along with the check engine light) Is this any thing to do with my first problem or is this just coincidence. There seems to be a lot of static Electricity about the truck? Can this mess up sensors. What about CB radio transmission? Can this hurt anything... Cell phone chargers?

 

[JR2]

The speedo/ABS are the same problem. It has to be with your speed sensor. I think its on top of the rear diff, quite often a rock will fly up and smash the connector. Its easy to look at it and easy to replace. As for your other problem its the TPS with out a doubt. I belive that is covered under the 100K engine warranty so if you have less than 100K (which I doubt) then take it to the dealer and ask. If not the TPS can be had from Cummins for less than from Dodge. I remember reading a post a year or so ago about getting it from Cummins. Do a search for TPS and see what comes up.



JR2

 

[KcoleKennyc]

My 98. 5 did exactly the same thing and it was the APPS switch. It is only available from DC. Replaced mine about 2 yrs. ago and have had no more problems. Mine also did the speedometer problem and it was the sensor on the rear axle. Good luck, Kenny