Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Grid Heaters

[Bloomy]

A friend of mine has a 99 QC auto 2500 4x4. It kept throwing the code for the #2 grid heater. Replaced the relays and the code is gone, but it takes a long time for the wait to start light to go off. If it is 45 degrees, it stays on for at least 15 seconds. It still starts fine, but want to make sure there aren't any other problems before the cold weather gets here. How would I check the grid heaters themselves to make sure they are working? Put a voltmeter to see if they are getting power? Actually look to see if they get hot?



Thanks

Thomas

 

[2-ND TIME]

If you have or can buy a cheep multimeter analog of digital. Lift one side of the heater off and measure the resistance of it they should be the same I was told that they draw 200 + amps so 12v/ ?? 200 will give you the resistance. Check the contact surfaces .

 

[darkhorse]

I5 seconds at 45* sounds okay. The grid heater should feel warm to the touch, after cycleing.

 

[andrewkoperdak]

I wait about 20 seconds at 55 degrees so 15 seconds sounds normal. The heaters draw 100 Amps max. not 200.

 

[Bloomy]

I guess I was comparing it to my 12v which takes a considerably less time when we leave from work in the morning. I'm going to check a few things just to satisfy him and me that everything is ok. Thanks for the info.



Thomas

 

[2-ND TIME]

Yes you are correct wasn't thinking too well but yes it would be the 100+ amps per heater. Coil resistance should be between. 0. 09 and 0. 11 ohms.

 

[RBratby]

this is what the fritz's ram tech page says http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/FAQ/cold_wx.htm