Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Malfunction Indicator Light

[Black Cloud]

After driving my newly purchased Ram back home, I noticed the MIL on the instrument cluster. Sometimes at start up it stays on until I shut it off or it doesn't come on at all.



What is the purpose of the MIL and is this a common problem for the engine or electronics? The truck drives fine with it on.

 

[RBeard]

The only experience I have had with the MIL light is when my lift pump was going bad, the drop in fuel pressure set off the light. It never flickered or came and went. when it came on it stayed on!!

 

[RustyJC]

I believe this will work with the model year 2000 truck. The presence of the MIL would indicate that there should be some codes present in the ECM and/or PCM. You can check these codes by (starting from the ignition off position) turning the ignition ON, then OFF, then ON, then OFF, then ON and watching the codes come up in the odometer window on the dash. If you'll advise what codes you're seeing, maybe we can help you zero in on the problem.



Rusty

 

[Black Cloud]

I tried the on/off method for the codes but nothing showed up. Today I noticed the tach dropped to zero while traveling about 55 mph and bounced back up and at the same time the MIL came on.

 

[RustyJC]

Sounds like a crankshaft position sensor.



Rusty

 

[Black Cloud]

Any idea what price damage that would run? Also would the sensor be covered under the engine warranty?

 

[Red Rocket]

definitely covered by warranty. I like to take it straight to cummins thru the dealer, if they will allow that.



Nick