Engine Installation DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Repair Manual
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Page 414 of 2627

(2) Check the heated seat sensor (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED SEATS/HEATED SEAT
SENSOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(3) Check the heated seat switch (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/HEATED SEATS/DRIVER HEATED
SEAT SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
NOTE: Refer to Wiring for the location of complete
heated seat system wiring diagrams and connector
pin-out information.
(4) Using a voltmeter, backprobe the appropriate
heated seat module connector, do not disconnect.
Check for voltage at the appropriate pin cavities. 12v
should be present. If OK go to Step 5, if Not, Repair
the open or shorted voltage supply circuit as
required.
(5) Using a ohmmeter, backprobe the appropriate
heated seat module connector, do not disconnect.
Check for proper continuity to ground on the ground
pin cavities. Continuity should be present. If OK
replace the heated seat module with a known good
unit and retest system, if Not OK, Repair the open or
shorted ground circuit as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Position the driver seat to the full rearward
and inclined position.
(2) Working under the driver front seat, remove
the two heated seat module retaining screws. Due to
the fact that the retaining screws are installed with
the seat cushion pan removed, a small right angle
screwdriver will be required to access and remove the
screws.
(3) Disconnect the seat wire harness connector
from the connector receptacle on the back of the
heated seat module. Depress the connector retaining
tab and pull straight apart.
(4) Remove the heated seat module from under the
front seat.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the heated seat module under the
front seat.
(2) Connect the seat wire harness connector on the
connector receptacle on the back of the heated seat
module.
(3) Working under the driver front seat, install the
heated seat module retaining screws.
(4) Re-position the driver seat.
POWERTRAIN CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - PCM
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is located
in the right-rear section of the engine compartment
under the cowl (Fig. 4).
Two different PCM's are used (JTEC and
NGC). These can be easily identified. JTEC's
use three 32±way connectors, NGC's use four
38±way connectors
DESCRIPTION - MODES OF OPERATION
As input signals to the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) change, the PCM adjusts its response to the
output devices. For example, the PCM must calculate
different injector pulse width and ignition timing for
idle than it does for wide open throttle (WOT).
The PCM will operate in two different modes:
Open Loop and Closed Loop.
During Open Loop modes, the PCM receives input
signals and responds only according to preset PCM
programming. Input from the oxygen (O2S) sensors
is not monitored during Open Loop modes.
Fig. 4 POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM)
LOCATION
1 - COWL GRILL
2 - PCM
3 - COWL (RIGHT-REAR)
DRELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 7
HEATED SEAT MODULE (Continued)
Page 419 of 2627

REMOVAL
USE THE DRB SCAN TOOL TO REPROGRAM
THE NEW POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
(PCM) WITH THE VEHICLES ORIGINAL IDEN-
TIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) AND THE VEHI-
CLES ORIGINAL MILEAGE. IF THIS STEP IS
NOT DONE, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE
(DTC) MAY BE SET.
The PCM is located in the engine compartment
attached to the dash panel (Fig. 5).
To avoid possible voltage spike damage to the
PCM, ignition key must be off, and negative battery
cable must be disconnected before unplugging PCM
connectors.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
(2) Remove cover over electrical connectors. Cover
snaps onto PCM.
(3) Carefully unplug the three 32±way connectors
(four 38±way connectors if equipped with NGC) from
PCM (Fig. 6).
(4) Remove three PCM mounting bolts (Fig. 6) and
remove PCM from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
USE THE DRB SCAN TOOL TO REPROGRAM
THE NEW POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
(PCM) WITH THE VEHICLES ORIGINAL IDEN-
TIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) AND THE VEHI-
CLES ORIGINAL MILEAGE. IF THIS STEP ISNOT DONE, A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE
(DTC) MAY BE SET.
(1) Install PCM and 3 mounting bolts to vehicle.
(2) Tighten bolts. Refer to torque specifications.
(3) Check pin connectors in the PCM and the three
32±way connectors (four 38±way connectors if
equipped with NGC) for corrosion or damage. Also,
the pin heights in connectors should all be same.
Repair as necessary before installing connectors.
(4) Install three 32±way connectors (four 38±way
connectors if equipped with NGC).
(5) Install cover over electrical connectors. Cover
snaps onto PCM.
(6) Install negative battery cable.
(7)The 5.7L V-8 engine is equipped with a
fully electronic accelerator pedal position sen-
sor. If equipped with a 5.7L, also perform the
following 3 steps:
(a) Connect negative battery cable to battery.
(b) Turn ignition switch ON, but do not crank
engine.
(c) Leave ignition switch ON for a minimum of
10 seconds. This will allow PCM to learn electrical
parameters.
(d) The DRB IIItScan Tool may also be used to
learn electrical parameters. Go to the Miscella-
neous menu, and then select ETC Learn.
Fig. 5 PCM LOCATION
1 - COWL GRILL
2 - PCM
3 - COWL (RIGHT-REAR)
Fig. 6 PCM REMOVAL / INSTALLATION
1 - THREE 32-WAY CONNECTORS WITH JTEC (FOUR 38-WAY
CONNECTORS WITH NGC)
2 - PCM MOUNTING BRACKET
3 - PCM
4 - PCM MOUNTING SCREWS (3)
8E - 12 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESDR
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (Continued)
Page 432 of 2627

ENGINE SYSTEMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM......................... 1
CHARGING.............................. 19STARTING............................... 26
BATTERY SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
SYSTEM.............................2
CLEANING.............................5
INSPECTION...........................5
SPECIFICATIONS........................6
SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY SYSTEM SPECIAL TOOLS.......7
BATTERY
DESCRIPTION..........................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY.......7
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BATTERY
CHARGING...........................8
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BUILT-IN
INDICATOR TEST.....................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OPEN-CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE TEST.......................10
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST.........................11STANDARD PROCEDURE - USING MICRO
420 BATTERY TESTER.................12
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY HOLDDOWN
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL.............................14
INSTALLATION.........................14
BATTERY CABLES
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................15
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
CABLES............................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................17
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION.........................17
OPERATION...........................17
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................18
BATTERY SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
A single 12-volt battery is standard factory-in-
stalled equipment on gasoline engine equipped mod-
els. Diesel engine equipped vehicles utilize two
12-volt batteries connected in parallel. All of the com-
ponents of the battery system are located within the
engine compartment of the vehicle. The battery sys-
tem for this vehicle, covers the following related com-
ponents, which are covered in further detail later in
this section of the service manual:²Battery- The storage battery provides a reli-
able means of storing a renewable source of electrical
energy within the vehicle.
²Battery Cables- The battery cables connect
the battery terminal posts to the vehicle electrical
system.
²Battery Holddown- The battery holddown
hardware secures the battery in the battery tray in
the engine compartment.
²Battery Tray- The battery tray provides a
secure mounting location in the vehicle for the bat-
tery and an anchor point for the battery holddown
hardware.
DRENGINE SYSTEMS 8F - 1
Page 448 of 2627

(2) Disconnect and isolate the remote battery neg-
ative cable terminal.
(3) Remove the battery from the vehicle. Refer to
the procedure in this group.
(4) One at a time, trace the battery cable retaining
pushpins, fasteners and routing clips until the cable
is free from the vehicle.
(5) Remove the battery cable from the engine com-
partment.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the battery cable in the engine com-
partment.
(2) One at a time, install the battery cable retain-
ing pushpins, fasteners and routing clips until the
cable is installed exactly where it was in the vehicle.
Refer to Wiring for illustrations.
(3) Install the battery in the vehicle. Refer to the
procedure in this group.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable terminal.
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION
The molded plastic tray battery tray is located in
the left front corner of the engine compartment. On
this model, the battery tray also provides an anchor
point for the anti-lock brake controller, cruise control
servo (if equipped) and the integrated power module
(Fig. 15). The battery hold down hardware is con-
tained within the battery tray. A hole in the bottom
of the battery tray is fitted with a battery tempera-
ture sensor. Refer to Charging System for more infor-
mation on the battery temperature sensor.
OPERATION
The battery tray and the battery hold down hard-
ware combine to secure and stabilize the battery in
the engine compartment, which prevents battery
movement during even the most extreme vehicle
operation. Unrestrained battery movement during
vehicle operation could result in damage to the vehi-
cle, the battery, or both.
REMOVAL
LEFT SIDE
(1) Remove the battery from the battery tray
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BAT-
TERY - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the integrated power module (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER DISTRIBUTION/INTEL-
LIGENT POWER MODULE - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness retainers from the
battery tray assembly.
(4) Remove the anti-lock brake controller (if
equipped) retaining bolts and support the brake con-
troller with mechanics wire. It is not necessary to
completely remove the anti-lock brake control unit.
(5) Remove the left front wheelhouse splash shiel-
d(Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERIOR/LF WHEEL-
HOUSE SPLASH SHIELD - REMOVAL).
(6) Mark the location of the cruise servo (if
equipped) and remove the retaining screws. Position
the servo out of the way.
(7) Remove the battery temperature sensor from
the battery tray (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/CHARG-
ING/BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR -
REMOVAL).
(8) Disconnect the purge solenoid from its mount-
ing bracket.
(9) Disconnect the left front fender ground wire.
(10) Remove the remaining battery tray retaining
bolts (Fig. 16).
(11) Remove the battery tray from the vehicle.
RIGHT SIDE
(1) Remove the battery from the battery tray
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BAT-
TERY - REMOVAL).
Fig. 15 DR Battery Tray
1 - BATTERY TRAY ASSEMBLY
2 - BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
3 - ANTI-LOCK BRAKE CONTROLLER MOUNTING LOCATION
4 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE MOUNTING SANCTION
DRBATTERY SYSTEM 8F - 17
BATTERY CABLES (Continued)
Page 450 of 2627

CHARGING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHARGING
DESCRIPTION.........................19
OPERATION...........................19
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM............................19
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERATOR RATINGS.................20
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE - GENERATOR
/ CHARGING SYSTEM..................20
BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................21OPERATION...........................21
REMOVAL.............................21
INSTALLATION.........................21
GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................21
OPERATION...........................21
REMOVAL.............................22
INSTALLATION.........................24
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................25
OPERATION...........................25
CHARGING
DESCRIPTION
The charging system consists of:
²Generator
²Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) circuitry
within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Elec-
tronic Control Module (ECM) for diesel engines.
²Ignition switch
²Battery (refer to 8, Battery for information)
²Battery temperature sensor
²Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped)
²Voltmeter (refer to 8, Instrument Panel and
Gauges for information)
²Wiring harness and connections (refer to 8, Wir-
ing Diagrams for information)
OPERATION
The charging system is turned on and off with the
ignition switch. The system is on when the engine is
running and the ASD relay is energized. When the
ASD relay is on, voltage is supplied to the ASD relay
sense circuit at the PCM (ECM Diesel). This voltage
is connected through the PCM (ECM Diesel) and sup-
plied to one of the generator field terminals (Gen.
Source +) at the back of the generator.
The amount of direct current produced by the gen-
erator is controlled by the EVR (field control) cir-
cuitry contained within the PCM (ECM Diesel). This
circuitry is connected in series with the second rotor
field terminal and ground.
A battery temperature sensor, located in the bat-
tery tray housing, is used to sense battery tempera-
ture. This temperature data, along with data from
monitored line voltage, is used by the PCM (ECM
Diesel) to vary the battery charging rate. This isdone by cycling the ground path to control the
strength of the rotor magnetic field. The PCM then
compensates and regulates generator current output
accordingly.
All vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnos-
tics (OBD). All OBD-sensed systems, including EVR
(field control) circuitry, are monitored by the PCM
(ECM Diesel). Each monitored circuit is assigned a
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a
DTC in electronic memory for certain failures it
detects.
The Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped) monitors:
charging system voltage,engine coolant tempera-
ture and engine oil pressure. If an extreme condition
is indicated, the lamp will be illuminated. This is
done as reminder to check the three gauges. The sig-
nal to activate the lamp is sent via the CCD bus cir-
cuits. The lamp is located on the instrument panel.
Refer to 8, Instrument Panel and Gauges for addi-
tional information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM
The following procedures may be used to diagnose
the charging system if:
²the check gauges lamp (if equipped) is illumi-
nated with the engine running
²the voltmeter (if equipped) does not register
properly
²an undercharged or overcharged battery condi-
tion occurs.
Remember that an undercharged battery is often
caused by:
²accessories being left on with the engine not
running
DRCHARGING 8F - 19
Page 451 of 2627

²a faulty or improperly adjusted switch that
allows a lamp to stay on. Refer to Ignition-Off Draw
Test in 8, Battery for more information.
INSPECTION
The PCM (Powertrain Control Module), or ECM
(Diesel) monitors critical input and output circuits of
the charging system, making sure they are opera-
tional. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned
to each input and output circuit monitored by the
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system. Some charging
system circuits are checked continuously, and some
are checked only under certain conditions.
Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain
Control Module; Electronic Control Modules for more
DTC information. This will include a complete list of
DTC's including DTC's for the charging system.
To perform a complete test of the charging system,
refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures service manual and the DRBtscan tool. Per-
form the following inspections before attaching the
scan tool.
(1) Inspect the battery condition. Refer to 8, Bat-
tery for procedures.(2) Inspect condition of battery cable terminals,
battery posts, connections at engine block, starter
solenoid and relay. They should be clean and tight.
Repair as required.
(3) Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and
Power Distribution Center (PDC) for tightness in
receptacles. They should be properly installed and
tight. Repair or replace as required.
(4) Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness.
Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the Gen-
erator Removal/Installation section of this group for
torque specifications.
(5) Inspect generator drive belt condition and ten-
sion. Tighten or replace belt as required. Refer to
Belt Tension Specifications in 7, Cooling System.
(6) Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped).
Refer to 7, Cooling System for information.
(7) Inspect generator electrical connections at gen-
erator field, battery output, and ground terminal (if
equipped). Also check generator ground wire connec-
tion at engine (if equipped). They should all be clean
and tight. Repair as required.
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERATOR RATINGS
TYPE PART NUMBER RATED SAE AMPS ENGINES
DENSO 56029700AA 136 3.7L / 4.7L
BOSCH 56041120AC 136 3.7L / 4.7L
DENSO 56028696AA 136 5.7L Gas/5.9L Diesel
BOSCH 56028699AA 136 5.7L Gas/5.9L Diesel
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE - GENERATOR /
CHARGING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Generator Mounting Bolts
- 5.7L41 30 -
Generator Support
Bracket Bolt/Nuts - 5.7L41 30 -
Generator Upper Mounting
Bolt - 5.9L Diesel Engine41 30 -
Generator Vertical
Mounting Bolt - 3.7L / 4.7L
Engines55 40 -
Generator (long)
Horizontal Mounting Bolt -
3.7L / 4.7L Engines55 40 -
8F - 20 CHARGINGDR
CHARGING (Continued)
Page 452 of 2627

DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Generator (short)
Horizontal Mounting Bolt -
3.7L / 4.7L Engines74 55 -
Generator B+ Output
Cable Terminal Nut12 - 108
BATTERY TEMPERATURE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) is attached
to the battery tray located under the battery.
OPERATION
The BTS is used to determine the battery temper-
ature and control battery charging rate. This temper-
ature data, along with data from monitored line
voltage, is used by the PCM (ECM Diesel) to vary the
battery charging rate. System voltage will be higher
at colder temperatures and is gradually reduced at
warmer temperatures.
The PCM sends 5 volts to the sensor and is
grounded through the sensor return line. As temper-
ature increases, resistance in the sensor decreases
and the detection voltage at the PCM increases.
The BTS is also used for OBD II diagnostics. Cer-
tain faults and OBD II monitors are either enabled
or disabled, depending upon BTS input (for example,
disable purge and enable Leak Detection Pump
(LDP) and O2 sensor heater tests). Most OBD II
monitors are disabled below 20ÉF.
REMOVAL
The battery temperature sensor is located under
the vehicle battery and is attached (snapped into) a
mounting hole on battery tray (Fig. 1).
(1) Remove battery. Refer to 8, Battery for proce-
dures.
(2) Pry sensor straight up from battery tray
mounting hole to gain access to electrical connector
(Fig. 1).
(3) Disconnect sensor from engine wire harness
electrical connector.
INSTALLATION
The battery temperature sensor is located under
the vehicle battery and is attached (snapped into) a
mounting hole on battery tray.
(1) Pull electrical connector up through mounting
hole in top of battery tray.
(2) Connect sensor.
(3) Snap sensor into battery tray.(4) Install battery. Refer to 8, Battery for proce-
dures.
GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION
The generator is belt-driven by the engine using a
serpentine type drive belt. It is serviced only as a
complete assembly. If the generator fails for any rea-
son, the entire assembly must be replaced.
OPERATION
As the energized rotor begins to rotate within the
generator, the spinning magnetic field induces a cur-
rent into the windings of the stator coil. Once the
generator begins producing sufficient current, it also
provides the current needed to energize the rotor.
Fig. 1 BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
LOCATION
1 - BATTERY TEMP. SENSOR
2 - BATTERY
3 - SENSOR ELEC. CONNECT.
4 - BATTERY TRAY
DRCHARGING 8F - 21
CHARGING (Continued)
Page 455 of 2627

INSTALLATION
3.7L / 4.7L
(1) Position generator to engine and install 2 hor-
izontal bolts and 1 vertical bolt.
(2) Tighten all 3 bolts. Refer to Torque Specifica-
tions.
(3) Snap field wire connector into rear of genera-
tor.
(4) Install B+ terminal eyelet to generator output
stud. Tighten mounting nut. Refer to Torque Specifi-
cations.
CAUTION: Never force a belt over a pulley rim
using a screwdriver. The synthetic fiber of the belt
can be damaged.
CAUTION: When installing a serpentine accessory
drive belt, the belt MUST be routed correctly. The
water pump may be rotating in the wrong direction
if the belt is installed incorrectly, causing the
engine to overheat. Refer to belt routing label in
engine compartment, or refer to Belt Schematics in
7, Cooling System.
(5) Install generator drive belt. Refer to 7, Cooling
System for procedure.
(6) Install negative battery cable to battery.5.7L
(1) Position generator to engine and install 2
mounting bolts.
(2) Tighten bolts. Refer to Torque Specifications.
(3) Position support bracket to front of generator
and install bolt and nuts. Tighten bolt / nuts. Refer
to Torque Specifications.
(4) Snap field wire connector into rear of genera-
tor.
(5) Install B+ terminal eyelet to generator output
stud. Tighten mounting nut. Refer to Torque Specifi-
cations.
CAUTION: Never force a belt over a pulley rim
using a screwdriver. The synthetic fiber of the belt
can be damaged.
CAUTION: When installing a serpentine accessory
drive belt, the belt MUST be routed correctly. The
water pump may be rotating in the wrong direction
if the belt is installed incorrectly, causing the
engine to overheat. Refer to belt routing label in
engine compartment, or refer to Belt Schematics in
7, Cooling System.
(6) Install generator drive belt. Refer to 7, Cooling
System for procedure.
(7) Install negative battery cable to battery.
5.9L Diesel
(1) Position generator to upper and lower mount-
ing brackets and install upper bolt and lower bolt /
nut.
(2) Tighten all bolts / nut. Refer to Torque Specifi-
cations.
(3) Snap field wire connector into rear of genera-
tor.
(4) Install B+ terminal eyelet to generator output
stud. Tighten mounting nut. Refer to Torque Specifi-
cations.
CAUTION: Never force a belt over a pulley rim
using a screwdriver. The synthetic fiber of the belt
can be damaged.
CAUTION: When installing a serpentine accessory
drive belt, the belt MUST be routed correctly. The
water pump may be rotating in the wrong direction
if the belt is installed incorrectly, causing the
engine to overheat. Refer to belt routing label in
engine compartment, or refer to Belt Schematics in
7, Cooling System.
(5) Install generator drive belt. Refer to 7, Cooling
System for procedure.
Fig. 7 5.9L DIESEL GENER. CONNECTORS
1 - B+ CONNECTOR
2 - GENERATOR
3 - FIELD WIRE CONNECTOR
8F - 24 CHARGINGDR
GENERATOR (Continued)
Page 457 of 2627

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
Page 459 of 2627

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)