check engine DODGE RAM 1999 Service Owners Manual


EN G IN E O VER HAU L P R O CED URES - G EN ER AL IN FO RM ATIO N

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
Engine Overhaul Procedures - General Information
ALL PISTON ENGINES
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
Examples used in this article are general in nature and do
not necessarily relate to a specific engine or system. Illustrations
and procedures have been chosen to guide mechanic through engine
overhaul process. Descriptions of processes of cleaning, inspection,
assembly and machine shop practice are included.
Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and specifications
for the vehicle being repaired.
ENGINE IDENTIFICATION
The engine may be identified from its Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) stamped on a metal tab. Metal tab may be located in
different locations depending on manufacturer. Engine identification
number or serial number is located on cylinder block. Location varies
with manufacturer.
INSPECTION PROCEDURES
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
GENERAL
Engine components must be inspected to meet manufacturer's
specifications and tolerances during overhaul. Proper dimensions and
tolerances must be met to obtain proper performance and maximum engine
life.
Micrometers, depth gauges and dial indicator are used for
checking tolerances during engine overhaul. Magnaflux, Magnaglo, dye-
check, ultrasonic and x-ray inspection procedures are used for parts
inspection.
MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECTION
Magnaflux & Magnaglo
Magnaflux is an inspection technique used to locate material
flaws and stress cracks. The part in question is subjected to a strong
magnetic field. The entire part, or a localized area, can be
magnetized. The part is coated with either a wet or dry material that
contains fine magnetic particles.
Cracks which are outlined by the particles cause an
interruption in the magnetic field. The dry powder method of Magnaflux
can be used in normal light. A crack will appear as an obvious bright
line.
Fluorescent liquid is used in conjunction with a blacklight
in a second Magnaflux system called Magnaglo. This type of inspection
demands a darkened room. The crack will appear as a glowing line in
this process. Both systems require complete demagnetizing upon

completion of the inspection. Magnetic particle inspection applies to
ferrous materials only.
PENETRANT INSPECTION
Zyglo
The Zyglo process coats the material with a fluorescent dye
penetrant. The part is often warmed to expand cracks that will be
penetrated by the dye. When the coated part is subjected to inspection
with a blacklight, a crack will glow brightly. Developing solution
is often used to enhance results. Parts made of any material, such as
aluminum cylinder heads or plastics, may be tested using this process.
Dye Check
Penetrating dye is sprayed on the previously cleaned
component. Dye is left on component for 5-45 minutes, depending upon
material density. Component is then wiped clean and sprayed with a
developing solution. Surface cracks will show up as a bright line.
ULTRASONIC INSPECTION
If an expensive part is suspected of internal cracking,
Ultrasonic testing is used. Sound waves are used for component
inspection.
X-RAY INSPECTION
This form of inspection is used on highly stressed
components. X-ray inspection maybe used to detect internal and
external flaws in any material.
PRESSURE TESTING
Cylinder heads can be tested for cracks using a pressure
tester. Pressure testing is performed by plugging all but one of the
holes in the head and injecting air or water into the open passage.
Leaks are indicated by the appearance of wet or damp areas when using
water. When air is used, it is necessary to spray the head surface
with a soap solution. Bubbles will indicate a leak. Cylinder head may
also be submerged in water heated to specified temperature to check
for cracks created during heat expansion.
CLEANING PROCEDURES
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
GENERAL
All components of an engine do not have the same cleaning
requirements. Physical methods include bead blasting and manual
removal. Chemical methods include solvent blast, solvent tank, hot
tank, cold tank and steam cleaning of components.
BEAD BLASTING
Manual removal of deposits may be required prior to bead
blasting, followed by some other cleaning method. Carbon, paint and

rust may be removed using bead blasting method. Components must be
free of oil and grease prior to bead blasting. Beads will stick to
grease or oil soaked areas causing area not to be cleaned.
Use air pressure to remove all trapped residual beads from
components after cleaning. After cleaning internal engine parts made
of aluminum, wash thoroughly with hot soapy water. Component must be
thoroughly cleaned as glass beads will enter engine oil resulting in
bearing damage.
CHEMICAL CLEANING
Solvent tank is used for cleaning oily residue from
components. Solvent blasting sprays solvent through a siphon gun using
compressed air.
The hot tank, using heated caustic solvents, is used for
cleaning ferrous materials only. DO NOT clean aluminum parts such as
cylinder heads, bearings or other soft metals using the hot tank.
After cleaning, flush parts with hot water.
A non-ferrous part will be ruined and caustic solution will
be diluted if placed in the hot tank. Always use eye protection and
gloves when using the hot tank.
Use of a cold tank is for cleaning of aluminum cylinder
heads, carburetors and other soft metals. A less caustic and unheated
solution is used. Parts may be lift in the tank for several hours
without damage. After cleaning, flush parts with hot water.
Steam cleaning, with boiling hot water sprayed at high
pressure, is recommended as the final cleaning process when using
either hot or cold tank cleaning.
COMPONENT CLEANING
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
SHEET METAL PARTS
Examples of sheet metal parts are the rocker covers, front
and side covers, oil pan and bellhousing dust cover. Glass bead
blasting or hot tank may be used for cleaning.
Ensure all mating surfaces are flat. Deformed surfaces should
be straightened. Check all sheet metal parts for cracks and dents.
INTAKE & EXHAUST MANIFOLDS
Using solvent cleaning or bead blasting, clean manifolds for
inspection. If the intake manifold has an exhaust crossover, all
carbon deposits must be removed. Inspect manifolds for cracks, burned
or eroded areas, corrosion and damage to fasteners.
Exhaust heat and products of combustion cause threads of
fasteners to corrode. Replace studs and bolts as necessary. On "V"
type intake manifolds, the sheet metal oil shield must be removed for
proper cleaning and inspection. Ensure that all manifold parting
surfaces are flat and free of burrs.
CYLINDER HEAD REPLACEMENT
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *

NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
REMOVAL
Remove intake and exhaust manifolds and valve cover. Cylinder
head and camshaft carrier bolts (if equipped), should be removed only
when the engine is cold. On many aluminum cylinder heads, removal
while hot will cause cylinder head warpage. Mark rocker arm or
overhead cam components for location.
Remove rocker arm components or overhead cam components.
Components must be installed in original location. Individual design
rocker arms may utilize shafts, ball-type pedestal mounts or no rocker
arms. For all design types, wire components together and identify
according to the corresponding valve. Remove cylinder head bolts.
Note length and location. Some applications require cylinder head
bolts be removed in proper sequence to prevent cylinder head damage.
See Fig. 1 . Remove cylinder head.
Fig. 1: Typical Cylinder Head Tightening or Loosening Sequence
This Graphic For General Information Only
INSTALLATION
Ensure all surfaces and head bolts are clean. Check that head
bolt holes of cylinder block are clean and dry to prevent block damage
when bolts are tightened. Clean threads with tap to ensure accurate
bolt torque.
Install head gasket on cylinder block. Some manufacturer's
may recommend sealant be applied to head gasket prior to installation.
Note that all holes are aligned. Some gasket applications may be
marked so certain area faces upward. Install cylinder head using care
not to damage head gasket. Ensure cylinder head is fully seated on
cylinder block.
Some applications require head bolts be coated with sealant
prior to installation. This is done if head bolts are exposed to water
passages. Some applications require head bolts be coated with light
coat of engine oil.

Install head bolts. Head bolts should be tightened in proper
steps and sequence to specification. See Fig. 1. Install remaining
components. Tighten all bolts to specification. Adjust valves if
required. See VALVE ADJUSTMENT in this article.
NOTE: Some manufacturers require that head bolts be retightened
after specified amount of operation. This must be done to
prevent head gasket failure.
VALVE ADJUSTMENT
Engine specifications will indicate valve train clearance and
temperature at which adjustment is to be made on most models. In most
cases, adjustment will be made with a cold engine. In some cases, both
a cold and a hot clearance will be given for maintenance convenience.
On some models, adjustment is not required. Rocker arms are
tightened to specification and valve lash is automatically set. On
some models with push rod actuated valve train, adjustment is made at
push rod end of rocker arm while other models do not require
adjustment.
Clearance will be checked between tip of rocker arm and tip
of valve stem in proper sequence using a feeler gauge. Adjustment is
made by rotating adjusting screw until proper clearance is obtained.
Lock nut is then tightened. Engine will be rotated to obtain all valve
adjustments to manufacturer's specifications.
Some models require hydraulic lifter to be bled down and
clearance measured. Different length push rods can be used to obtain
proper clearance. Clearance will be checked between tip of rocker arm
and tip of valve stem in proper sequence using a feeler gauge.
On overhead cam engines designed without rocker arms actuate
valves directly on a cam follower. A hardened, removable disc is
installed between the cam lobe and lifter. Clearance will be checked
between cam heel and adjusting disc in proper sequence using a feeler
gauge. Engine will be rotated to obtain all valve adjustments.
On overhead cam engines designed with rocker arms, adjustment
is made at push rod end of rocker arm. Ensure that the valve to be
adjusted is riding on the heel of the cam on all engines. Clearance
will be checked between tip of rocker arm and tip of valve stem in
proper sequence using a feeler gauge. Adjustment is made by rotating
adjusting screw until proper clearance is obtained. Lock nut is then
tightened. Engine will be rotated to obtain all valve adjustments to
manufacturer's specifications.
CYLINDER HEAD OVERHAUL
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
DISASSEMBLY
Mark valves for location. Using valve spring compressor,
compress valve springs. Remove valve locks. Carefully release spring
compressor. Remove retainer or rotator, valve spring, spring seat and
valve. See Fig. 2.

On cast cylinder heads, if warpage exceeds .003" (.08 mm)
in a 6" span, or .006" (.15 mm) over total length, cylinder head must
be resurfaced. On most aluminum cylinder heads, if warpage exceeds .
002" (.05 mm) in any area, cylinder head must be resurfaced. Warpage
specification may vary with manufacturer.
Cylinder head thickness should be measured to determine
amount of material which can be removed before replacement is
required. Cylinder head thickness must not be less than manufacturer's
specifications.
If cylinder head required resurfacing, it may not align
properly with intake manifold. On "V" type engines, misalignment is
corrected by machining intake manifold surface that contacts cylinder
head. Cylinder head may be machined on surface that contacts intake
manifold.
Using oil stone, remove burrs or scratches from all sealing
surfaces.
VALVE SPRINGS
Inspect valve springs for corroded or pitted valve spring
surfaces which may lead to breakage. Polished spring ends caused by
a rotating spring, indicates that spring surge has occurred. Replace
springs showing evidence of these conditions.
Inspect valve springs for squareness using a 90 degree
straightedge. See Fig. 4. Replace valve spring if out-of-square
exceeds manufacturer's specification.
Fig. 4: Checking Valve Spring Squareness - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only
Using vernier caliper, measure free length of all valve
springs. Replace springs if not within specification. Using valve

during manufacture, some new type valves cannot be reground.
Resurface valve on proper angle specification using valve
grinding machine. Follow manufacturer's instructions for valve
grinding machine. Specifications may indicate a different valve face
angle than seat angle.
Measure valve margin after grinding. Replace valve if not
within specification. Valve stem tip can be refinished using valve
grinding machine.
Valve Lapping
During valve lapping of recent designed valves, be sure to
follow manufacturers recommendations. Surface hardening and materials
used with some valves do not permit lapping. Lapping process will
remove excessive amounts of the hardened surface.
Valve lapping is done to ensure adequate sealing between
valve face and seat. Use either a hand drill or lapping stick with
suction cup attached.
Moisten and attach suction cup to valve. Lubricate valve stem
and guide. Apply a thin coat of fine valve grinding compound between
valve and seat. Rotate lapping tool between the palms or with hand
drill.
Lift valve upward off the seat and change position often.
This is done to prevent grooving of valve seat. Lap valve until a
smooth polished seat is obtained. Thoroughly clean grinding compound
from components. Valve to valve seat concentricity should be checked.
See VALVE SEAT CONCENTRICITY.
CAUTION: Valve guides must be in good condition and free of carbon
deposits prior to valve seat grinding. Some engines contain
an induction hardened valve seat. Excessive material removal
will damage valve seats.
Valve Seat Grinding
Select coarse stone of correct size and angle for seat to be
ground. Ensure stone is true and has a smooth surface. Select correct
size pilot for valve guide dimension. Install pilot in valve guide.
Lightly lubricate pilot shaft. Install stone on pilot. Move stone off
and on the seat approximately 2 times per second during grinding
operation.
Select a fine stone to finish grinding operation. Grinding
stones with 30 and 60 degree angles are used to center and narrow the
valve seat as required. See Fig. 10.
Fig. 10: Adjusting Valve Seat Width - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only
Valve Seat Replacement
Replacement of valve seat inserts is done by cutting out

than .010" (.25 mm) from tip. Chamfer sharp edge of reground valve
tip. Recheck valve stem installed height.
VALVE STEM OIL SEALS
Valve stem oil seals must be installed on valve stem. See
Fig. 2 . Seals are needed due to pressure differential at the ends of
valve guides. Atmospheric pressure above intake guide, combined with
manifold vacuum below guide, causes oil to be drawn into the cylinder.
Exhaust guides also have pressure differential created by
exhaust gas flowing past the guide, creating a low pressure area. This
low pressure area draws oil into the exhaust system.
Replacement (On Vehicle)
Mark rocker arm or overhead cam components for location.
Remove rocker arm components or overhead cam components. Components
must be installed in original location. Remove spark plugs. Valve stem
oil seals may be replaced by holding valves against seats using air
pressure.
Air pressure must be installed in cylinder using an adapter
for spark plug hole. An adapter can be constructed by welding air hose
connection to spark plug body with porcelain removed.
Install adapter in spark plug hole. Apply a minimum of 140
psi (9.8 kg/cm
) to adapter. Air pressure should hold valve closed. If
air pressure does not hold valve closed, check for damaged or bent
valve. Cylinder head must be removed for service.
Using valve spring compressor, compress valve springs. Remove
valve locks. Carefully release spring compressor. Remove retainer or
rotator and valve spring. Remove valve stem oil seal.
If oversized valves have been installed, oversized oil seals
must be used. Coat valve stem with engine oil. Install protective
sleeve over end of valve stem. Install new oil seal over valve stem
and seat on valve guide. Remove protective sleeve. Install spring
seat, valve spring and retainer or rotator. Compress spring and
install valve locks. Remove spring compressor. Ensure valve locks
are fully seated.
Install rocker arms or overhead cam components. Tighten all
bolts to specification. Adjust valves if required. Remove adapter.
Install spark plugs, valve cover and gasket.
VALVE SPRING INSTALLED HEIGHT
Valve spring installed height should be checked during
reassembly. Measure height from lower edge of valve spring to the
upper edge. DO NOT include valve spring seat or retainer. Distance
must be within specifications. If valves and/or seats have been
ground, a valve spring shim may be required to correct spring height.
See Fig. 12 .
Fig. 12: Measuring Valve Spring Installed Height - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only

interchangeable. Inspect all components for wear. Note amount of wear
in lifter body-to-camshaft contact area. Surface must have smooth and
convex contact face. If wear is apparent, carefully inspect cam lobe.
Inspect push rod contact area and lifter body for scoring
or signs of wear. If body is scored, inspect lifter bore for damage
and lack of lubrication. On roller type lifters, inspect roller for
flaking, pitting, loss of needle bearings and roughness during
rotation.
Measure lifter body O.D. in several areas. Measure lifter
bore I.D. of cylinder block. Some models offer oversized lifters.
Replace lifter if damaged.
If lifter check valve is not operating, obstructions may be
preventing it from closing or valve spring may be broken. Clean or
replace components as necessary.
Check plunger operation. Plunger should drop to bottom of the
body by its own weight when assembled dry. If plunger is not free,
soak lifter in solvent to dissolve deposits.
Lifter leak-down test can be performed on lifter. Lifter
must be filled with special test oil. New lifters contain special test
oil. Using lifter leak-down tester, perform leak-down test following
manufacturer's instructions. If leak-down time is not within
specifications, replace lifter assembly.
Lifters should be soaked in clean engine oil several hours
prior to installation. Coat lifter base, roller (if equipped) and
lifter body with ample amount of Molykote or camshaft lubricant. See
Fig. 13. Install lifter in original location. Install remaining
components. Valve lash adjustment is not required on most hydraulic
lifters. Preload of hydraulic lifter is automatic. Some models may
require adjustment.
Mechanical Lifters
Lifter assemblies must be installed in original locations.
Remove rocker arm assembly and push rod. Mark components for location.
Some applications require intake manifold or lifter cover removal.
Remove lifter retainer plate (if used). To remove lifters, use lifter
remover or magnet.
Inspect push rod contact area and lifter body for scoring or
signs of wear. If body is scored, inspect lifter bore for damage and
lack of lubrication. Note amount of wear in lifter body-to-camshaft
contact area. Surface must have smooth and convex contact face. If
wear is apparent, carefully inspect cam lobe.
Coat lifter base, roller (if equipped) and lifter body with
ample amount of Molykote or camshaft lubricant. Install lifter in
original location. Install remaining components. Tighten bolts to
specification. Adjust valves. See VALVE ADJUSTMENT in this article.
PISTONS, CONNECTING RODS & BEARINGS
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: Always refer to appropriate engine overhaul article in the
ENGINES section for complete overhaul procedures and
specifications for the vehicle being repaired.
RIDGE REMOVAL
Ridge in cylinder wall must be removed prior to piston
removal. Failure to remove ridge prior to removing pistons will cause
piston damage in piston ring locations.
With the piston at bottom dead center, place a rag in the
bore to trap metal chips. Install ridge reamer in cylinder bore.
Adjust ridge reamer using manufacturer's instructions. Remove ridge

over connecting rod bolts. Install piston and connecting rod assembly.
Ensure piston notch, arrow or "FRONT" mark is toward front of engine.
See Fig. 17 .
Fig. 17: Installing Piston & Connecting Rod Assembly - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only
Carefully tap piston into cylinder until rod bearing is
seated on crankshaft journal. Remove protectors. Install rod cap and
bearing. Lightly tighten connecting rod bolts. Repeat procedure for
remaining cylinders. Check bearing clearance. See
MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARING CLEARANCE in this article.
Once clearance is checked, lubricate journals and bearings.
Install bearing caps. Ensure marks are aligned on connecting rod and
cap. Tighten rod nuts or bolts to specification. Ensure rod moves
freely on crankshaft. Check connecting rod side clearance. See
CONNECTING ROD SIDE CLEARANCE in this article.
CONNECTING ROD SIDE CLEARANCE
Position connecting rod toward one side of crankshaft as far
as possible. Using feeler gauge, measure clearance between side of
connecting rod and crankshaft. See Fig. 18. Clearance must be within
specifications.