Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Engine hiccup?

[Gary - K7GLD]

I've seen this issue come up before - and usually it's considered a sign of a failing VP-44 - but in this case, I wonder if something else might be in effect...



Twice now, when towing at elevation and steep grades, traffic has cut me off and caused my speed to fall lower than I realized due to watching traffic, road conditions, etc. , and then when trying to accellerate from about 45 MPH in OD, the Cummins tries, but after a bit, sorta coughs or hiccups. Then I realize that even the Cummins needs more RPM, so I downshift, and everything is fine - full power and RPM - absolutely NO problems other than a Check Engine light and a P0216 code...



I wonder if there is some sort of load/RPM sensing program in the ECM that would see that some unusual circumstance is overloading the engine, and cause what I describe?



Any informed comment?

 

[WBlackburn]

My01 did the same thing, except I have the 6 speed. They found it was the throttle position sensor was Kput. Warrant put a new one on and its been fine since.

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

I have the 6-speed as well...



I'm thinking the various MAP, tach, airflow, and similar sensors feeding info to the ECM might trigger the symptom when the APPS signal is obviously high, yet engine speed will not increase as expected - sorta forcing a reset action within the ECM that would cause a momentary hiccup and resulting code...



As I mentioned, absolutely NO other indications or faults - the codes are still there, but the check engine light goes out after a few engine restarts... It's only done this twice, under identical situations, and many months apart in time...

 

[24V-DSL]

Gary...



Not sure how "informed" this is, but since the description of the 0216 code is Fuel Injection Pump Timing Failure, doesn't that make you wonder? I can't recall anyone with 0216 eventually not have to replace the VP44, me included. Seems to me that those with 0216 experience various symptoms, and yours seems like a new one?