auto matic Transmission DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Owner's Manual

Engine Control Module (ECM) over the PCI data bus
to illuminate the check gauges indicator for a coolant
temperature high condition.
²Fasten Seat Belt Warning- The instrument
cluster chime tone generator will generate repetitive
chimes at a slow rate each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On or Start positions to announce that
the hard wired inputs from the seat belt switch and
the ignition switch indicate that the driver side front
seat belt is not fastened. The chimes will continue to
sound for a duration of about six seconds, until the
driver side front seat belt is fastened, or until the
ignition switch is turned to the Off position, which-
ever occurs first.
²Head/Park Lamps-On Warning- The instru-
ment cluster chime tone generator will generate
repetitive chimes at a slow rate to announce that the
hard wired inputs from the driver door ajar switch,
the ignition switch, and the exterior lighting circuitry
of the headlamp switch indicate that the exterior
lamps are turned On with the driver door opened
and the ignition switch in the Off position. The
chimes will continue to sound until the exterior
lamps are turned Off, the driver door is closed, or the
ignition switch is turned to the On position, or the
battery protection time-out expires, whichever occurs
first.
²Key-In-Ignition Warning- The instrument
cluster chime tone generator will generate repetitive
chimes at a slow rate to announce that the hard
wired inputs from the driver door ajar switch, the
ignition switch, and the key-in ignition circuitry of
the ignition switch indicate that the key is in the
ignition lock cylinder with the driver door opened
and the ignition switch in the Off position. The
chimes will continue to sound until the key is
removed from the ignition lock cylinder, the driver
door is closed, or the ignition switch is turned to the
On position, whichever occurs first.
²Low Fuel Warning- The instrument cluster
chime tone generator will generate one chime tone
when the low fuel indicator is illuminated by the
instrument cluster. The instrument cluster uses a
percent tank full message input received from the
PCM over the PCI data bus indicating that there is
less than about one-eighth tank of fuel remaining to
illuminate the low fuel indicator. This chime feature
will only occur once in an ignition cycle.
²Low Oil Pressure Warning (Diesel Engine
Only)- The instrument cluster chime tone generator
will generate repetitive chimes at a fast rate when
the check gauges indicator is illuminated for a low oil
pressure condition. The instrument cluster uses
engine speed and oil pressure message inputs
received from the diesel Engine Control Module
(ECM) over the PCI data bus indicating that theengine is running and that the oil pressure is low to
illuminate the check gauges indicator. The chimes
will continue to sound for five seconds, until the
engine oil pressure message indicates that the oil
pressure is not low, or until the engine speed mes-
sage indicates that the engine is not running, which-
ever occurs first. This chime tone will only occur once
in an ignition cycle.
²Low Wash Warning- The instrument cluster
chime tone generator will generate one chime tone
when the low washer fluid indicator is illuminated by
the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster uses a
message input received from the Front Control Mod-
ule (FCM) over the PCI data bus indicating that
washer fluid level is low within the washer reservoir.
This chime feature will only occur once in an ignition
cycle.
²Overspeed Warning- The instrument cluster
chime tone generator will generate one chime tone to
announce that a vehicle speed message input
received from the PCM over the PCI data bus indi-
cates that the vehicle speed is above a pre-programed
limit.
²Park Brake Reminder- The instrument clus-
ter chime tone generator will generate ten repetitive
chimes at a slow rate to announce that the hard
wired input from the park brake switch and a vehicle
speed message input received from the PCM over the
PCI data bus indicates that the park brake is applied
and the vehicle is moving. This chime feature will
repeat each time the input conditions are met.
²Sentry Key Immobilizer System ªCustomer
Learnº Mode Announcement- This chime feature
is only active on vehicles equipped with the optional
Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) and sold in
markets where the optional ªCustomer Learnº pro-
gramming feature is available. The instrument clus-
ter chime tone generator will generate one chime to
announce that a status message input received from
the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) over the
PCI data bus indicates that the SKIS is in the ªCus-
tomer Learnº mode, which is used for programming
additional sentry key transponders.
²Transmission Temperature High Warning
(Automatic Transmission only)- The instrument
cluster chime tone generator will generate repetitive
chimes at a slow rate when the transmission temper-
ature indicator is illuminated for a high or critical
transmission fluid temperature condition. The instru-
ment cluster uses transmission temperature message
inputs received from the Transmission Control Mod-
ule (TCM) over the PCI data bus to illuminate the
indicator for a transmission temperature high condi-
tion.
²Turn Signal On Warning- The instrument
cluster chime tone generator will generate repetitive
8B - 2 CHIME/BUZZERDR
CHIME WARNING SYSTEM (Continued)

WIDE OPEN THROTTLE MODE
This is an Open Loop mode. During wide open
throttle operation, the PCM receives the following
inputs.
²Battery voltage
²Crankshaft position sensor
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Throttle position sensor (TPS)
²Camshaft position sensor signal
During wide open throttle conditions, the following
occurs:
²Voltage is applied to the fuel injectors with the
ASD relay via the PCM. The PCM will then control
the injection sequence and injector pulse width by
turning the ground circuit to each individual injector
on and off. The PCM ignores the oxygen sensor input
signal and provides a predetermined amount of addi-
tional fuel. This is done by adjusting injector pulse
width.
²The PCM adjusts ignition timing by turning the
ground path to the coil(s) on and off.
IGNITION SWITCH OFF MODE
When ignition switch is turned to OFF position,
the PCM stops operating the injectors, ignition coil,
ASD relay and fuel pump relay.
DESCRIPTION - 5 VOLT SUPPLIES
Two different Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
five volt supply circuits are used; primary and sec-
ondary.
DESCRIPTION - IGNITION CIRCUIT SENSE
This circuit ties the ignition switch to the Power-
train Control Module (PCM).
DESCRIPTION - POWER GROUNDS
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has 2 main
grounds. Both of these grounds are referred to as
power grounds. All of the high-current, noisy, electri-
cal devices are connected to these grounds as well as
all of the sensor returns. The sensor return comes
into the sensor return circuit, passes through noise
suppression, and is then connected to the power
ground.
The power ground is used to control ground cir-
cuits for the following PCM loads:
²Generator field winding
²Fuel injectors
²Ignition coil(s)
²Certain relays/solenoids
²Certain sensors
DESCRIPTION - SENSOR RETURN
The Sensor Return circuits are internal to the Pow-
ertrain Control Module (PCM).
Sensor Return provides a low±noise ground refer-
ence for all engine control system sensors. Refer to
Power Grounds for more information.
OPERATION
OPERATION - PCM
The PCM operates the fuel system. The PCM is a
pre-programmed, triple microprocessor digital com-
puter. It regulates ignition timing, air-fuel ratio,
emission control devices, charging system, certain
transmission features, speed control, air conditioning
compressor clutch engagement and idle speed. The
PCM can adapt its programming to meet changing
operating conditions.
The PCM receives input signals from various
switches and sensors. Based on these inputs, the
PCM regulates various engine and vehicle operations
through different system components. These compo-
nents are referred to as Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) Outputs. The sensors and switches that pro-
vide inputs to the PCM are considered Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) Inputs.
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based upon
inputs it receives from sensors that react to: engine
rpm, manifold absolute pressure, engine coolant tem-
perature, throttle position, transmission gear selec-
tion (automatic transmission), vehicle speed, power
steering pump pressure, and the brake switch.
The PCM adjusts idle speed based on inputs it
receives from sensors that react to: throttle position,
vehicle speed, transmission gear selection, engine
coolant temperature and from inputs it receives from
the air conditioning clutch switch and brake switch.
Based on inputs that it receives, the PCM adjusts
ignition coil dwell. The PCM also adjusts the gener-
ator charge rate through control of the generator
field and provides speed control operation.
NOTE: PCM Inputs:
²ABS module (if equipped)
²A/C request (if equipped with factory A/C)
²A/C select (if equipped with factory A/C)
²A/C pressure transducer
²Auto shutdown (ASD) sense
²Battery temperature sensor
²Battery voltage
²Brake switch
²J1850 bus (+) circuits
²J1850 bus (-) circuits
²Camshaft position sensor signal
²Crankshaft position sensor
8E - 10 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²EATX module (if equipped)
²Engine coolant temperature sensor
²Fuel level (through J1850 circuitry)
²Generator (battery voltage) output
²Ignition circuit sense (ignition switch in on/off/
crank/run position)
²Intake manifold air temperature sensor
²Knock sensors (2 on 3.7L engine)
²Leak detection pump (switch) sense (if equipped)
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²Oil pressure
²Oxygen sensors
²Park/neutral switch (auto. trans. only)
²Power ground
²Power steering pressure switch (if equipped)
²Sensor return
²Signal ground
²Speed control multiplexed single wire input
²Throttle position sensor
²Transfer case switch (4WD range position)
²Vehicle speed signal
NOTE: PCM Outputs:
²A/C clutch relay
²Auto shutdown (ASD) relay
²J1850 bus (+/-) circuits for: speedometer, voltme-
ter, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge/lamp, engine temp.
gauge and speed control warn. lamp
²Data link connection for DRB scan tool
²EGR valve control solenoid (if equipped)
²EVAP canister purge solenoid
²Five volt sensor supply (primary)
²Five volt sensor supply (secondary)
²Fuel injectors
²Fuel pump relay
²Generator field driver (-)
²Generator field driver (+)
²Idle air control (IAC) motor
²Ignition coil(s)
²Leak detection pump (if equipped)
²Malfunction indicator lamp (Check engine lamp).
Driven through J1850 circuits.²Oxygen sensor heater relays
²Oxygen sensors (pulse width modulated)
²Radiator cooling fan relay (pulse width modu-
lated)
²Speed control vacuum solenoid
²Speed control vent solenoid
²Tachometer (if equipped). Driven through J1850
circuits.
²Transmission convertor clutch circuit. Driven
through J1850 circuits.
OPERATION - 5 VOLT SUPPLIES
Primary 5±volt supply:
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor.
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor.
²supplies a reference voltage for the Manifold
Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor.
²supplies a reference voltage for the Throttle
Position Sensor (TPS) sensor.
Secondary 5±volt supply:
²supplies the required 5 volt power source to the
oil pressure sensor.
²supplies the required 5 volt power source for the
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) (if equipped).
²supplies the 5 volt power source to the transmis-
sion pressure sensor (certain automatic transmis-
sions).
OPERATION - IGNITION CIRCUIT SENSE
The ignition circuit sense input tells the PCM the
ignition switch has energized the ignition circuit.
Battery voltage is also supplied to the PCM
through the ignition switch when the ignition is in
the RUN or START position. This is referred to as
the9ignition sense9circuit and is used to9wake up9
the PCM. Voltage on the ignition input can be as low
as 6 volts and the PCM will still function. Voltage is
supplied to this circuit to power the PCM's 8-volt reg-
ulator and to allow the PCM to perform fuel, ignition
and emissions control functions.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 11
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

²Proper transmit/receive messages are occurring
on the PCI bus.
²Ignition key switch is in the RUN position.
Range shiftswill be allowed only if all of the fol-
lowing conditions are met:
²Front and rear wheel speed are within 21 km/hr
(13 mph).
²A change in the Selector Switch state indicating
a range shift has been requested.
²Transmission in NEUTRAL signal must be rec-
ognized for at least 1.5 seconds  100 msec. (Auto-
matic transmissions only)
²Proper transmit/receive messages are occurring
on the PCI bus.
²Clutch signal is recognized for 500 msec   50
msec (Manual transmissions only).
²Vehicle speed is less than or equal to 4.8 km/hr
(3 miles per hour).
²Ignition key switch is in the RUN position.
²A valid mode sensor signal is being sensed by
the TCCM.
Ashift into transfer case Neutralwill be
allowed only if all of the following conditions are met:
²Front and rear wheel speed are within 21 km/hr
(13 mph).
²The recessed Neutral Selection switch has been
depressed continuously for 4.0 seconds  100 msec
while all shift conditions have been continuously met.
²Transmission in NEUTRAL signal recognized
from the bus. (Automatic transmissions only)
²Clutch signal is recognized from the bus (Man-
ual transmissions only).
²Proper message transmissions/receptions are
occurring on the PCI bus.
²Vehicle speed is less than or equal to 4.8 km/hr
(3 miles per hour).
²Ignition key switch is in the RUN position,
engine off.
²Foot Brake is applied.
²A valid mode sensor signal is being sensed by
the TCCM.
Ashift out of transfer case Neutralwill be
allowed only if all of the following conditions are met:
²Front and rear wheel speed are within 21 km/hr
(13 mph).
²The recessed Neutral Selection switch has been
depressed continuously for 1.0 seconds  100 msec
while all shift conditions have been continuously met.
²Transmission in NEUTRAL signal recognized
from the bus.(Automatic transmissions only)
²Clutch signal is recognized from the bus (Man-
ual transmissions only).
²Proper message transmissions/receptions are
occurring on the PCI bus.
²Vehicle speed is less than or equal to 4.8 km/hr
(3 miles per hour).²Ignition key switch is in the RUN position.
²Foot Brake is applied.
²A valid mode sensor signal is being sensed by
the TCCM.
SHIFT SEQUENCES
Once all the driver controllable conditions for the
requested shift have been met, the TCCM begins a
shift timer with a maximum duration of 1 second per
'D' channel transition. If the shift timer expires
before the TCCM recognizes to correct mode sensor
code, the shift is considered to have been blocked.
The blocked shift will increment the blocked shift
counter by one. The TCCM strategy for handling
blocked shifts will be described later. The process the
TCCM performs for the various shifts will be
described first.
RANGE AND MODE SHIFTS
The process for performing all the range and mode
shifts are the same. The following steps describe the
process.
²Allow time for Selector Switch debounce; 250
msec  50 msec.
²Extinguish the source gear's LED while flashing
desired transfer case position's LED.
²Engage the shift motor for a maximum of 1 sec-
ond  100 msec per 'D' channel transition in the des-
tination gear's direction while monitoring the mode
sensor channel transitions.
²Disengage the shift motor when the correct
mode sensor code is recognized.
²Solidly illuminate the selected gear's LED.
²Transmit a bus message that the transfer case
shift is complete.
²If the desired mode sensor code is not received
after the shift timer expires (ie. a blocked or other
condition exists), stop driving the motor and wait for
200 msec  50 msec. The shift motor is then reversed
in the direction back toward the source gear for up to
1.0 seconds  100 msec. per 'D' channel. The TCCM
waits for 2.0 seconds  50 msec. and repeats the
attempt to shift to the desired position.
The exception to the preceding sequence is when a
shift from 4L to 2WD/AWD is requested. If 2WD/
AWD is requested from the 4L position, the transfer
case is first driven to the 4H position. If the 4H posi-
tion is reached, the transfer case is then driven back
to the 2WD/AWD position and the shift is considered
complete. If the transfer case does not reach any the
4H position, but is in the 2WD/AWD 'D' channel, or
the 2WD/AWD between gear position on the 4H side
of 2WD/AWD, the shift is also considered complete.
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 17
TRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

Large eyelet type terminals are crimped onto the
opposite end of the battery cable wire and then sol-
der-dipped. The battery positive cable wires have a
red insulating jacket to provide visual identification
and feature a larger female battery terminal clamp
to allow connection to the larger battery positive ter-
minal post. The battery negative cable wires have a
black insulating jacket and a smaller female battery
terminal clamp.
OPERATION
The battery cables connect the battery terminal
posts to the vehicle electrical system. These cables
also provide a return path for electrical current gen-
erated by the charging system for restoring the volt-
age potential of the battery. The female battery
terminal clamps on the ends of the battery cable
wires provide a strong and reliable connection of the
battery cable to the battery terminal posts. The ter-
minal pinch bolts allow the female terminal clamps
to be tightened around the male terminal posts on
the top of the battery. The eyelet terminals secured
to the ends of the battery cable wires opposite the
female battery terminal clamps provide secure and
reliable connection of the battery to the vehicle elec-
trical system.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY CABLES
A voltage drop test will determine if there is exces-
sive resistance in the battery cable terminal connec-
tions or the battery cables. If excessive resistance is
found in the battery cable connections, the connec-
tion point should be disassembled, cleaned of all cor-
rosion or foreign material, then reassembled.
Following reassembly, check the voltage drop for the
battery cable connection and the battery cable again
to confirm repair.
When performing the voltage drop test, it is impor-
tant to remember that the voltage drop is giving an
indication of the resistance between the two points at
which the voltmeter probes are attached.EXAM-
PLE:When testing the resistance of the battery pos-
itive cable, touch the voltmeter leads to the battery
positive cable terminal clamp and to the battery pos-
itive cable eyelet terminal at the starter solenoid
B(+) terminal stud. If you probe the battery positive
terminal post and the battery positive cable eyelet
terminal at the starter solenoid B(+) terminal stud,
you are reading the combined voltage drop in the
battery positive cable terminal clamp-to-terminal
post connection and the battery positive cable.
VOLTAGE DROP TEST
WARNING: MODELS EQUIPPED WITH A DIESEL
ENGINE HAVE AN AUTOMATIC SHUTDOWN (ASD)RELAY LOCATED IN THE POWER DISTRIBUTION
CENTER (PDC). REMOVAL OF THE ASD RELAY
MAY NOT PREVENT THE DIESEL ENGINE FROM
STARTING. BE CERTAIN TO DISCONNECT THE
FUEL SHUTDOWN SOLENOID WIRE HARNESS
CONNECTOR TO PREVENT THE ENGINE FROM
STARTING. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN
PERSONAL INJURY.
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing this
test, be certain that the following procedures are
accomplished:
²The battery is fully-charged and tested (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
²Fully engage the parking brake.
²If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, place the gearshift selector lever in the
Park position. If the vehicle is equipped with a man-
ual transmission, place the gearshift selector lever in
the Neutral position and block the clutch pedal in the
fully depressed position.
²Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned
off.
²To prevent a gasoline engine from starting,
remove the Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. The
ASD relay is located in the Integrated Power Module
(IPM), in the engine compartment. See the fuse and
relay layout label on the underside of the IPM cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
(1) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery negative terminal post. Connect the neg-
ative lead of the voltmeter to the battery negative
cable terminal clamp (Fig. 11). Rotate and hold the
ignition switch in the Start position. Observe the
voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct the poor con-
nection between the battery negative cable terminal
clamp and the battery negative terminal post.
NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with two 12v bat-
teries, step #1 must be performed twice, once for
each battery.
(2) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery positive terminal post. Connect the nega-
tive lead of the voltmeter to the battery positive cable
terminal clamp (Fig. 12). Rotate and hold the ignition
switch in the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If
voltage is detected, correct the poor connection
between the battery positive cable terminal clamp
and the battery positive terminal post.
NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with two 12v bat-
teries, step #2 must be performed twice, once for
each battery.
DRBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 15
BATTERY CABLES (Continued)

STARTING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
STARTING
DESCRIPTION.........................26
OPERATION...........................26
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM............................27
SPECIFICATIONS
STARTING SYSTEM...................31
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE - STARTING
SYSTEM............................32
STARTER MOTOR
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER
MOTOR .............................32REMOVAL.............................33
INSTALLATION.........................34
STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................35
OPERATION...........................36
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER RELAY . 36
REMOVAL.............................37
INSTALLATION.........................37
STARTING
DESCRIPTION
The starting system consists of:
²Starter relay
²Starter motor (including an integral starter sole-
noid)
Other components to be considered as part of start-
ing system are:
²Battery
²Battery cables
²Ignition switch and key lock cylinder
²Clutch pedal position switch (manual transmis-
sion)
²Park/neutral position switch (automatic trans-
mission)
²Wire harnesses and connections.
The Battery, Starting, and Charging systems oper-
ate in conjunction with one another, and must be
tested as a complete system. For correct operation of
starting/charging systems, all components used in
these 3 systems must perform within specifications.
When attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it
is important that you keep their interdependency in
mind.
The diagnostic procedures used in each of these
groups include the most basic conventional diagnostic
methods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diag-
nostics (OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Mod-
ule (PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere
ammeter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile
rheostat (load tester), and 12-volt test lamp may be
required.Certain starting system components are monitored
by the PCM and may produce a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC). Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in
Emission Control for a list of codes.
OPERATION
The starting system components form two separate
circuits. A high-amperage feed circuit that feeds the
starter motor between 150 and 350 amperes (700
amperes - diesel engine), and a low-amperage control
circuit that operates on less than 20 amperes. The
high-amperage feed circuit components include the
battery, the battery cables, the contact disc portion of
the starter solenoid, and the starter motor. The low-
amperage control circuit components include the igni-
tion switch, the clutch pedal position switch (manual
transmission), the park/neutral position switch (auto-
matic transmission), the starter relay, the electro-
magnetic windings of the starter solenoid, and the
connecting wire harness components.
If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmis-
sion, it has a clutch pedal position switch installed in
series between the ignition switch and the coil bat-
tery terminal of the starter relay. This normally open
switch prevents the starter relay from being ener-
gized when the ignition switch is turned to the Start
position, unless the clutch pedal is depressed. This
feature prevents starter motor operation while the
clutch disc and the flywheel are engaged. The starter
relay coil ground terminal is always grounded on
vehicles with a manual transmission.
8F - 26 STARTINGDR

If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic trans-
mission, battery voltage is supplied through the low-
amperage control circuit to the coil battery terminal
of the starter relay when the ignition switch is
turned to the Start position. The park/neutral posi-
tion switch is installed in series between the starter
relay coil ground terminal and ground. This normally
open switch prevents the starter relay from being
energized and the starter motor from operating
unless the automatic transmission gear selector is in
the Neutral or Park positions.
When the starter relay coil is energized, the nor-
mally open relay contacts close. The relay contacts
connect the relay common feed terminal to the relay
normally open terminal. The closed relay contacts
energize the starter solenoid coil windings.
The energized solenoid pull-in coil pulls in the sole-
noid plunger. The solenoid plunger pulls the shift
lever in the starter motor. This engages the starter
overrunning clutch and pinion gear with the starter
ring gear.
As the solenoid plunger reaches the end of its
travel, the solenoid contact disc completes the high-
amperage starter feed circuit and energizes the sole-
noid plunger hold-in coil. Current now flows between
the solenoid battery terminal and the starter motor,
energizing the starter.Once the engine starts, the overrunning clutch pro-
tects the starter motor from damage by allowing the
starter pinion gear to spin faster than the pinion
shaft. When the ignition switch is released to the On
position, the starter relay coil is de-energized. This
causes the relay contacts to open. When the relay
contacts open, the starter solenoid plunger hold-in
coil is de-energized.
When the solenoid plunger hold-in coil is de-ener-
gized, the solenoid plunger return spring returns the
plunger to its relaxed position. This causes the con-
tact disc to open the starter feed circuit, and the shift
lever to disengage the overrunning clutch and pinion
gear from the starter ring gear.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems oper-
ate in conjunction with one another, and must be
tested as a complete system. For correct starting/
charging system operation, all of the components
involved in these 3 systems must perform within
specifications.
Starting System Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER FAILS TO
OPERATE.1. Battery discharged or
faulty.1. Refer to Battery. Charge or replace battery, if required.
2. Starting circuit wiring
faulty.2. Refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams. Test and repair starter
feed and/or control circuits, if required.
3. Starter relay faulty. 3. Refer to Starter Relay in Diagnosis and Testing.
Replace starter relay if required.
4. Ignition switch faulty. 4. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.
Replace ignition switch if required.
5. Clutch pedal position
switch faulty.5. Refer to Clutch Pedal Position Switch.
6. Park/Neutral position
switch faulty or
misadjusted.6. Refer to Park/Neutral Position Switch. Replace
park/neutral position switch if required.
7. Starter solenoid faulty. 7. Refer to Starter Motor. Replace starter motor assembly
if required.
8. Starter motor faulty. 8. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor.
DRSTARTING 8F - 27
STARTING (Continued)

Starting System Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER ENGAGES,
FAILS TO TURN
ENGINE.1. Battery discharged or
faulty.1. Refer to Battery. Charge or replace battery if required.
2. Starting circuit wiring
faulty.2. Refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams. Test and repair starter
feed and/or control circuits if required.
3. Starter motor faulty. 3. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor assembly.
4. Engine seized. 4. Refer to Engine Diagnosis in the Diagnosis and Testing
section of 9, Engine.
STARTER ENGAGES,
SPINS OUT BEFORE
ENGINE STARTS.1. Starter ring gear faulty. 1. Refer to Starter Motor Removal and Installation.
Remove starter motor to inspect starter ring gear.
Replace starter ring gear if required.
2. Starter motor faulty. 2. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor assembly.
STARTER DOES NOT
DISENGAGE.1. Starter motor
improperly installed.1. Refer to Starter Motor Removal and Installation.
Tighten starter mounting hardware to correct torque
specifications.
2. Starter relay faulty. 2. Refer to Starter Relay Diagnosis and Testing. Replace
starter relay if required.
3. Ignition switch faulty. 3. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.
Replace ignition switch if required.
4. Starter motor faulty. 4. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor.
INSPECTION
For complete starter wiring circuit diagrams, refer
to 8, Wiring Diagrams. Before removing any unit
from starting system for repair or diagnosis, perform
the following inspections:
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO 8, PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYS-
TEMS, BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
²Battery- Visually inspect battery for indica-
tions of physical damage and loose or corroded cable
connections. Determine state-of-charge and cranking
capacity of battery. Charge or replace battery if
required. Refer toBatteryin 8, Battery.Note: If
equipped with diesel engine, a dual battery sys-
tem may be used, and both batteries must be
inspected.
²Ignition Switch- Visually inspect ignition
switch for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections. Refer toIgni-
tion Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.²Clutch Pedal Position Switch- If equipped
with manual transmission, visually inspect clutch
pedal position switch for indications of physical dam-
age and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
Refer toClutch Pedal Position Switchin 6,
Clutch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- If equipped
with automatic transmission, visually inspect park/
neutral position switch for indications of physical
damage and loose or corroded wire harness connec-
tions. Refer toPark/Neutral Position Switchin
21, Transmission.
²Starter Relay- Visually inspect starter relay
for indications of physical damage and loose or cor-
roded wire harness connections.
²Starter Motor- Visually inspect starter motor
for indications of physical damage and loose or cor-
roded wire harness connections.
²Starter Solenoid- Visually inspect starter sole-
noid for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.
²Wiring- Visually inspect wire harnesses for
damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as
required. Refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams.
8F - 28 STARTINGDR
STARTING (Continued)

TESTING
COLD CRANKING TEST
For complete starter wiring circuit diagrams, refer
to 8, Wiring Diagrams. The battery must be fully-
charged and load-tested before proceeding. Refer to
Batteryin 8, Battery.
(1) Connect volt-ampere tester to battery terminals
(Fig. 1). See instructions provided by manufacturer of
volt-ampere tester being used.Note: Certain diesel
equipped models use dual batteries. If equipped
with dual battery system, tester should be con-
nected to battery on left side of vehicle only.
Also, tester current reading must be taken from
positive battery cable lead that connects to
starter motor.
(2) Fully engage parking brake.
(3) If equipped with manual transmission, place
gearshift selector lever in Neutral position and block
clutch pedal in fully depressed position. If equipped
with automatic transmission, place gearshift selector
lever in Park position.
(4) Verify that all lamps and accessories are
turned off.
(5) To prevent a gasoline engine from starting,
remove Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. To prevent
a diesel engine from starting, remove Fuel Pump
Relay. These relays are located in Power Distribution
Center (PDC). Refer to label on PDC cover for relay
location.
WARNING: IF EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINE,
ATTEMPT TO START ENGINE A FEW TIMES
BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH FOLLOWING STEP.(6) Rotate and hold ignition switch in Start posi-
tion. Note cranking voltage and current (amperage)
draw readings shown on volt-ampere tester.
(a) If voltage reads below 9.6 volts, refer to
Starter Motorin Diagnosis and Testing. If starter
motor is OK, refer toEngine Diagnosisin 9,
Engine for further testing of engine. If starter
motor is not OK, replace faulty starter motor.
(b) If voltage reads above 9.6 volts and current
(amperage) draw reads below specifications, refer
toFeed Circuit Testin this section.
(c) If voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
starter motor does not turn, refer toControl Cir-
cuit Testingin this section.
(d) If voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
starter motor turns very slowly, refer toFeed Cir-
cuit Testin this section.
NOTE: A cold engine will increase starter current
(amperage) draw reading, and reduce battery volt-
age reading.
FEED CIRCUIT TEST
The starter feed circuit test (voltage drop method)
will determine if there is excessive resistance in
high-amperage feed circuit. For complete starter wir-
ing circuit diagrams, refer 8, Wiring Diagrams.
When performing these tests, it is important to
remember that voltage drop is giving an indication of
resistance between two points at which voltmeter
probes are attached.
Example:When testing resistance of positive bat-
tery cable, touch voltmeter leads to positive battery
cable clamp and cable connector at starter solenoid.
If you probe positive battery terminal post and cable
connector at starter solenoid, you are reading com-
bined voltage drop in positive battery cable clamp-to-
terminal post connection and positive battery cable.
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing tests,
be certain that following procedures are accom-
plished:
²Battery is fully-charged and load-tested. Refer to
Batteryin 8, Battery.
²Fully engage parking brake.
²If equipped with manual transmission, place
gearshift selector lever in Neutral position and block
clutch pedal in fully depressed position. If equipped
with automatic transmission, place gearshift selector
lever in Park position.
²Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned
off.
Fig. 1 VOLTS-AMPS TESTER CONNECTIONS -
TYPICAL
1 - POSITIVE CLAMP
2 - NEGATIVE CLAMP
3 - INDUCTION AMMETER CLAMP
DRSTARTING 8F - 29
STARTING (Continued)

(5) Connect positive lead of voltmeter to starter
housing. Connect negative lead of voltmeter to nega-
tive battery terminal post (Fig. 6). Rotate and hold
ignition switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter.
If reading is above 0.2 volt, correct poor starter to
engine block ground contact.Note: Certain diesel
equipped models use dual batteries. If equipped
with dual battery system, this procedure must
be performed on driver side battery only.
(6) If equipped with dual battery system (certain
diesel equipped models), connect positive lead of volt-
meter to positive battery cable clamp on battery
located on left side of vehicle. Connect negative lead
of voltmeter to positive battery terminal post on bat-
tery located on right side of vehicle. Rotate and hold
ignition switch in Start position. Observe voltmeter.
If reading is above 0.2 volt, clean and tighten battery
cables at both batteries. Repeat test. If reading is
still above 0.2 volt, replace faulty positive battery
cable.
If resistance tests detect no feed circuit problems,
refer toStarter Motorin the Diagnosis and Testing.CONTROL CIRCUIT TESTING
The starter control circuit components should be
tested in the order in which they are listed, as fol-
lows:
²Starter Relay- Refer toStarter RelayDiag-
nosis and Testing.
²Starter Solenoid- Refer toStarter Motor
Diagnosis and Testing.
²Ignition Switch- Refer toIgnition Switch
and Key Lock Cylinder
²Clutch Pedal Position Switch- If equipped
with manual transmission, refer toClutch Pedal
Position Switchin 6, Clutch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- If equipped
with automatic transmission, refer toPark/Neutral
Position Switchin 21, Transmission.
²Wire harnesses and connections- Refer to 8,
Wiring Diagrams.
SPECIFICATIONS
STARTING SYSTEM
Starter Motor and Solenoid
Manufacturer Denso Denso
Part Number 56028715AD 4741012
Engine Application 3.7L / 4.7L / 5.7L 5.9L Diesel
Power Rating1.4 Kilowatt / 1.9
Horsepower2.7 Kilowatt / 3.6
Horsepower
Fig. 5 TEST GROUND CIRCUIT RESISTANCE -
TYPICAL
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
3 - ENGINE GROUND
Fig. 6 TEST STARTER GROUND - TYPICAL
1 - STARTER MOTOR
2 - BATTERY
3 - VOLTMETER
DRSTARTING 8F - 31
STARTING (Continued)