The last couple of mornings have been the coldest for us so far (around 40 on Monday and 34 today). I noticed the coil light stayed on longer than usual, and my truck idled really rough. Is this something I should be concerned about? Is there something I can do about it? I know these may not be very good questions, but this is my first CTD, so I'm trying to learn. Thanks in advance for your help.
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Rough Idle at Start-up
- Thread starter SStiss
- Start Date
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- Status
Do you have the block heater cord??
Plugging it in will definately help, as will fuel (mine will act differently depending on the fuel in the tank)...
There was also a flash for the 04. 5 regarding the symptoms you describe, I believe it was a poor cold weather performance flash?? Mine had this flash and it did help... look for a TSB on it... might even get it done under warranty...
steved
Plugging it in will definately help, as will fuel (mine will act differently depending on the fuel in the tank)...
There was also a flash for the 04. 5 regarding the symptoms you describe, I believe it was a poor cold weather performance flash?? Mine had this flash and it did help... look for a TSB on it... might even get it done under warranty...
steved
SEE IF THIS HELPS.
SUBJECT:
Flash: White Smoke, Engine Stumble/Misfire, or Flat Spot in Engine Performance
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves erasing and reprogramming the Cummins ECM with new software.
MODELS:
2004 (DR) Ram Truck
NOTE: This bulletin applies to DR vehicles equipped with a 5. 9L Cummins
Turbo Diesel engine (sales code ETH), with an engine serial number
57130285 through and including 57149668 (Fig. 1); and the engine date of
manufacture 12/10/2003 through and including 2/2/2004.
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The vehicle operator may describe:
• White smoke during no-load engine acceleration between 2800 and 3000 rpm.
• Engine stumble/misfire or flat spot during moderate accelerations between 1500 and
2500 rpm. May be accompanied by white smoke.
• During cold ambient temperatures, -1 C (30 F) or below, white smoke and/or engine
stumble when engine is started after an extended cold soak, 8 hours or more.
• During cold ambient temperatures, -1 C (30 F) or below, white smoke when restarting
engine that has not yet reached normal operating temperature.
The new engine controller software also includes a change that allows
automatic transmission equipped vehicles to lock the torque converter clutch
when a manual 2nd gear downshift is selected.
DIAGNOSIS:
Using a Scan Tool (DRBIII®) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual,
verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTC’s are present,
other than the one above, record them on the repair order and repair as
necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.
If the vehicle operator describes or the technician experiences the Symptom/
Condition, perform the Repair Procedure.
18-007-04 -2-
Fig. 1 ENGINE DATA PLATE (2003 AND LATER SHOWN)
1 - ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER
2 - REFERENCE NUMBER
3 - DATE OF ENGINE MANUFACTURE
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 should be
restarted and then follow the directions on the DRBIII®.
1. Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, remove any old flash reprogramming
files from the DRBIII® memory. To clear the memory from the MAIN MENU:
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 - 2005 Diagnostics"
c. "All (Except Below)"
d. “Engine”
e. On 1998 1/2 - 2003 vehicles, select “Cummins”. 2004 and later
vehicles, proceed to next step.
f. “Module Display”
g. Record the “ECM part number” on the repair order for later reference.
-3- 18-007-04
NOTE: If the ECM is not operational, the “ECM part number” can be obtained from
the label on the controller. For 1998 1/2 - 2002 vehicles, if the label on the controller
is not legible, proceed to next step. 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.
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 - 2005 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 “Sales” or “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. Open the hood, install a battery charger and verify battery state is above 11. 5 volts.
7. If the old “ECM part number” is known, or for 2003 and later vehicles,
proceed to (STEP #14). On 1998 1/2 - 2002 vehicles, if the old “ECM part
number” is not known, proceed to next step.
8. On DealerCONNECT select the “Service” tab.
9. Select “Vehicle Information Plus”.
10. Select “Single VIN Inquiry”.
11. Manually enter the VIN and mileage and select “Enter”.
12. Select the “Vehicle Option” tab.
13. Under the “Vehicle Option” window, identify and record:
a. Engine (sales code and description).
b. Emissions (Federal or California)
c. Transmission (Automatic, 5-speed manual, etc. ).
NOTE: When reprogramming a Cummins ECM be sure to do the following;
• Download the flash from TechCONNECT to the DRBIII® with the
DRBIII® disconnected from the vehicle.
• Download the flash from the DRBIII® to the vehicle with the DRBIII®
disconnected from TechCONNECT.
14. 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.
15. Enter the old Cummins “ECM part number” obtained from the DRBIII® in
(STEP #2) into the “Parts Criteria” window.
18-007-04 -4-
16. Select “Show Updates”.
17. Highlight the proper calibration from the list:
a. If the old “ECM part number” is known, highlight the calibration listed, based
on the old “ECM part number” recorded earlier (STEP #2).
b. For 1998 1/2 - 2002, if the old “ECM part number” is not known, highlight
the correct calibration based on the information that was recorded
from “Vehicle Options” (STEP #13).
c. For 2003 and later, if the old part number is not known, highlight the proper
calibration based on the Reference No. located in the “Ref. No. ” box, at
the top, center of the Engine Data Plate (Fig. 1).
18. Select the “DRBIII” radio button which is next to the “Download/Update” button.
19. Select the “Download/Update” button.
20. 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.
21. Disconnect the DRBIII® from TechCONNECT.
22. Connect the DRBIII® to the vehicle.
23. Download the flash 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.
24. If the vehicle is equipped with SKIM, proceed to (STEP #25). If the vehicle
is not equipped with SKIM, proceed to (STEP #26).
25. 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 - 2005 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 #27).
26. On vehicles not equipped with SKIM, manually enter the VIN in the
ECM. Using the DRBIII® select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 - 2005 Diagnostics”
c. “All”
d. ”Engine”
e. “Cummins Controller (ECM/ENGINE)”
f. “Miscellaneous”
g. “CM84X Check VIN”
h. Follow the directions on the DRBIII® screen. When the process is
complete, proceed to next step.
NOTE: Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules
(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
-5- 18-007-04
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.
27. 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
08-19-35-91 Reprogram Engine Control Module 0. 8 Hrs.
FAILURE CODE:
FM Flash Module
SUBJECT:
Flash: White Smoke, Engine Stumble/Misfire, or Flat Spot in Engine Performance
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves erasing and reprogramming the Cummins ECM with new software.
MODELS:
2004 (DR) Ram Truck
NOTE: This bulletin applies to DR vehicles equipped with a 5. 9L Cummins
Turbo Diesel engine (sales code ETH), with an engine serial number
57130285 through and including 57149668 (Fig. 1); and the engine date of
manufacture 12/10/2003 through and including 2/2/2004.
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The vehicle operator may describe:
• White smoke during no-load engine acceleration between 2800 and 3000 rpm.
• Engine stumble/misfire or flat spot during moderate accelerations between 1500 and
2500 rpm. May be accompanied by white smoke.
• During cold ambient temperatures, -1 C (30 F) or below, white smoke and/or engine
stumble when engine is started after an extended cold soak, 8 hours or more.
• During cold ambient temperatures, -1 C (30 F) or below, white smoke when restarting
engine that has not yet reached normal operating temperature.
The new engine controller software also includes a change that allows
automatic transmission equipped vehicles to lock the torque converter clutch
when a manual 2nd gear downshift is selected.
DIAGNOSIS:
Using a Scan Tool (DRBIII®) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual,
verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTC’s are present,
other than the one above, record them on the repair order and repair as
necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.
If the vehicle operator describes or the technician experiences the Symptom/
Condition, perform the Repair Procedure.
18-007-04 -2-
Fig. 1 ENGINE DATA PLATE (2003 AND LATER SHOWN)
1 - ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER
2 - REFERENCE NUMBER
3 - DATE OF ENGINE MANUFACTURE
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 should be
restarted and then follow the directions on the DRBIII®.
1. Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, remove any old flash reprogramming
files from the DRBIII® memory. To clear the memory from the MAIN MENU:
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 - 2005 Diagnostics"
c. "All (Except Below)"
d. “Engine”
e. On 1998 1/2 - 2003 vehicles, select “Cummins”. 2004 and later
vehicles, proceed to next step.
f. “Module Display”
g. Record the “ECM part number” on the repair order for later reference.
-3- 18-007-04
NOTE: If the ECM is not operational, the “ECM part number” can be obtained from
the label on the controller. For 1998 1/2 - 2002 vehicles, if the label on the controller
is not legible, proceed to next step. 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.
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 - 2005 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 “Sales” or “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. Open the hood, install a battery charger and verify battery state is above 11. 5 volts.
7. If the old “ECM part number” is known, or for 2003 and later vehicles,
proceed to (STEP #14). On 1998 1/2 - 2002 vehicles, if the old “ECM part
number” is not known, proceed to next step.
8. On DealerCONNECT select the “Service” tab.
9. Select “Vehicle Information Plus”.
10. Select “Single VIN Inquiry”.
11. Manually enter the VIN and mileage and select “Enter”.
12. Select the “Vehicle Option” tab.
13. Under the “Vehicle Option” window, identify and record:
a. Engine (sales code and description).
b. Emissions (Federal or California)
c. Transmission (Automatic, 5-speed manual, etc. ).
NOTE: When reprogramming a Cummins ECM be sure to do the following;
• Download the flash from TechCONNECT to the DRBIII® with the
DRBIII® disconnected from the vehicle.
• Download the flash from the DRBIII® to the vehicle with the DRBIII®
disconnected from TechCONNECT.
14. 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.
15. Enter the old Cummins “ECM part number” obtained from the DRBIII® in
(STEP #2) into the “Parts Criteria” window.
18-007-04 -4-
16. Select “Show Updates”.
17. Highlight the proper calibration from the list:
a. If the old “ECM part number” is known, highlight the calibration listed, based
on the old “ECM part number” recorded earlier (STEP #2).
b. For 1998 1/2 - 2002, if the old “ECM part number” is not known, highlight
the correct calibration based on the information that was recorded
from “Vehicle Options” (STEP #13).
c. For 2003 and later, if the old part number is not known, highlight the proper
calibration based on the Reference No. located in the “Ref. No. ” box, at
the top, center of the Engine Data Plate (Fig. 1).
18. Select the “DRBIII” radio button which is next to the “Download/Update” button.
19. Select the “Download/Update” button.
20. 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.
21. Disconnect the DRBIII® from TechCONNECT.
22. Connect the DRBIII® to the vehicle.
23. Download the flash 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.
24. If the vehicle is equipped with SKIM, proceed to (STEP #25). If the vehicle
is not equipped with SKIM, proceed to (STEP #26).
25. 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 - 2005 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 #27).
26. On vehicles not equipped with SKIM, manually enter the VIN in the
ECM. Using the DRBIII® select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 - 2005 Diagnostics”
c. “All”
d. ”Engine”
e. “Cummins Controller (ECM/ENGINE)”
f. “Miscellaneous”
g. “CM84X Check VIN”
h. Follow the directions on the DRBIII® screen. When the process is
complete, proceed to next step.
NOTE: Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules
(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
-5- 18-007-04
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.
27. 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
08-19-35-91 Reprogram Engine Control Module 0. 8 Hrs.
FAILURE CODE:
FM Flash Module
B.G. Smith
TDR MEMBER
It may be normal but I have a hard time believing it's normal since I had a 99 that never did it. I know the 3rd gen. has a different fuel system. My 06 didn't smoke or idle rough when I first got it even in 30deg. F weather starts but now it does it every time regardless of outside temps if it has been sitting for a few hours. What I have is an injector leaking and it takes a little while for that cylinder to clear up. The exhaust manifold on that cylinder runs 30 deg. hotter just idling. I also have smoke on the passenger side rear fender and on the rear bumper and I don't think that is normal either. The exhaust blows more black smoke when I slightly rev the engine than I could get from my 99 with a Van Aken under load. My 99 was white and I never saw the rear fender discolored. My fuel mileage sucks. About 9 pulling a 5th wheel and 16 or less empty. Just something to think about if you have a smoker. bg
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Turbo Diesel Register
Issue 128 – Digital Version
Digital Magazines
FREE!
TDR Test Drive - Digital Edition
Renew
Subscribe
Gift Subscriptions
Back Issues
Subscription Status
Address Change Form
Buyer's Guides
Ram Diagnostic Trouble Codes
The Perfect Collection
The Perfect Collection Vol. II
TSB Updates
Dodge/Cummins Historical Overview
Cameron Collection
What Makes Us Tick?
Product Showcase
Advertising
