Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Stupid starting procedure question

[MacMc]

I did a search. Honestly, I would think this was a FAQ.



What is the correct starting procedure for these trucks? I've had this truck for a few months, and the last few weeks it's been very weak on starting. I even replaced the batteries with some new Optima Blue Tops, but the problem is still there.



By chance, I've discovered that it fires right up if I hit the pedal while cranking. Maybe I've been supposed to be doing this all along? I'm so used to driving EFI gassers, that it was total habit not to need to give it the pedal to start it.

 

[bmoeller]

Pretty much normal. I normally don't have to on a warm engine, though.



Where is the idle speed set at? May be a bit low.



http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/adjustments/2nd_Gen-Idle.htm

 

[Joe G.]

First of all your engine is ALL mechanical. The only CEL you can get is if the alternator catches fire. I think that the 5. 9 Cummins in a Dodge is the last of the mechanical engined vehicles you can buy in this country. Your problem is most likely low idle. It should be at least 750 RPM with the trans in gear and the AC on. 800 is better. I always give mine a little pedal to start it so it will start instantly. Less wear and tear on the starter that way.



Setting your idle is pretty simple. Finding the idle adjustment screw is the hardest part. You need a 10mm box end wrench. Find the throttle rod to the injection pump. Feel around the lever the rod goes to near the end of the pump for a vertical screw with a lock nut. Loosen the lock nut with the wrench. If you use your left hand to relieve the linkage pressure against the idle stop screw you sould be able to turn it by hand. After you get the idle like you want tighten the lock nut.

 

[MacMc]

Pretty much normal. I normally don't have to on a warm engine, though.



Where is the idle speed set at? May be a bit low.



http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/adjustments/2nd_Gen-Idle.htm

I'll check the idle tomorrow.



Mine seems to be worse when it's warm, though.

 

[DPyles]

Is the truck turning over slowly when starting it? I am just wondering because you stated you replaced the batteries. Mine turned over weakly for a while and I found out that the starter had a bad wire on the brush. When it was starting weakly I would also push the peadl a little when starting just to have it start immediatly. Might be worth a look. I got brushes from the local alt repair shop and put them in myself and it starts fine now.

 

[Mhannink]

not to hijack the thread but along the lines of not starting w/o the throttle what might cause that because mines been doing that latly

 

[ScottLewis]

Pretty common. Even the owner's manual says to crack the throttle, especially when cold.



Dan

 

[MacMc]

Idle speed is at 750 with A/C on, BUT that is in neutral. In gear (brake applied) it drops to about 700, and this is the correct procedure for the automatic transmission, right? This is reading the dash tachometer, which I've also heard may not be close enough for this measurement?



Should I go ahead and bump this up to 800? Is there a ballpark for how many turns of that idle bolt will be needed?



Today, I had the transmission completely flushed with all new fluid. 10 quarts, $140. The guy said he noticed fuel leaking from what looks like a filter somewhere around the master brake cylinder?



Go easy on me. I've had this truck for just a few months, and am learning a lot as I go.

 

[KMott]

If it is leaking from the main fuel filter (from the front of the truck it is on the right side at the back) it may be leaking form the water drain vavle on the bottom of the filter. I had this problem with mine, and replaced the water drain valve with one from fleetguard. You can buy a new filter and drain valve together for around 35 bucks. Might be worth your time if you havent changed the filter lately (which can also cause big problems)

Good Luck!

kevin

 

[WDixon27]

theres some fuel lines around that area that could be bad, if it's sucking air that could slow down starting a little