Ignition system DODGE RAM 1999 Service Repair Manual

* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check evaporative system.
LACK OF POWER
Check the following:
* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check fuel pressure
* Check Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor calibration
* Check Throttle Position (TP) sensor calibration
* Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) calibration
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check EGR system.
KNOCKING
Check the following:
* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check fuel pressure
* Check Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor calibration
* Check Throttle Position (TP) sensor calibration
* Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) calibration
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check evaporative system.
ENGINE MISFIRE
Check the following:
* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check fuel pressure
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check EGR system.
BACKFIRE
Check the following:
* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check fuel pressure
* Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) calibration
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check EGR system.
ROUGH OR ERRATIC IDLE
Check the following:

* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check engine vacuum
* Check fuel pressure
* Check Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor calibration
* Check Throttle Position (TP) sensor calibration
* Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) calibration
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check oxygen sensor heater
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check engine mechanical condition
* Check evaporative system
* Check EGR system
* Check Intake Air Temperature (IAT) motor operation
* Check Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch.
POOR FUEL ECONOMY
Check the following:
* Check secondary ignition system
* Check PCM power and ground circuits
* Check engine vacuum
* Check fuel pressure
* Check Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor calibration
* Check Throttle Position (TP) sensor calibration
* Check Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) calibration
* Check minimum idle airflow
* Check oxygen sensor switching
* Check oxygen sensor heater
* Check Idle Air Control (IAC) motor operation
* Check engine mechanical condition
* Check evaporative system
* Check EGR system
* Check Intake Air Temperature (IAT) motor operation
* Check Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch.
INTERMITTENTS
INTERMITTENT PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS
Intermittent fault testing requires duplicating circuit or
component failure to identify the problem. These procedures may lead
to PCM setting a Diagnostic Trouble Code (FTC) which may help in
diagnosis.
If problem vehicle does not produce FTC, monitor voltage or
resistance values using a DVOM while attempting to reproduce
conditions causing intermittent fault. A status change on DVOM
indicates a fault has been located.
Use a DVOM to pinpoint faults. When monitoring voltage,
ensure ignition switch is in ON position or engine is running. Ensure
ignition switch is in OFF position or negative battery cable is
disconnected when monitoring circuit resistance. Status changes on
DVOM during test procedures indicate area of fault.
TEST PROCEDURES
Intermittent Simulation
To reproduce the conditions creating an intermittent fault,
use the following methods:

located in power distribution center at driver's side front corner of
engine compartment, near the battery. Automatic Shutdown (ASD) relay
may also be referred to as Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay.
Battery Temperature Sensor
Battery temperature sensor delivers input signal to
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to indicate the battery temperature.
PCM uses battery temperature input to modify rate of output from the
charging system. Battery temperature sensor is snapped into battery
tray below driver's side battery.
Battery Voltage
Battery voltage input signal provides operating voltage to
Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This input signal keeps PCM memory
alive and informs PCM what generator output voltage is when engine is
running. PCM memory is used to store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs),
store APPS sensor voltages from previous key cycles and provide a
speed control adaptive memory.
Brake Switch
Brake switch delivers input signal to Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) to indicate when brakes are applied. PCM uses input
signal for controlling cruise control system and transmission torque
converter clutch operation on A/T models. Brake switch is located near
top of brake pedal and may also be referred to as brakelight switch.
CKP Sensor
Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor delivers input signal (35
tooth wheel with gap) to Engine Control Module (ECM) to indicate
engine speed and crankshaft position. ECM uses CKP signal along with
other input signals for controlling injector firing sequence and
timing. Sensor is located below fuel transfer pump, on side of engine
block. See Fig. 2.
Cruise Control System Switches
Cruise control system functions, controlled by momentary
contact switches, are monitored through multiplexed input signal to
Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Resistance monitored at this input
signal, in conjunction with the length of time the PCM measures the
resistance, determines which switch feature has been selected.
Data Link Connector (DLC)
Data Link Connector (DLC) provides an input signal to
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) when using scan tool to retrieve
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from PCM. Input signal may also be
used when performing various tests on the PCM and electronic control
system. DLC is a 16-pin connector located at lower edge of driver's
side of instrument panel, just above accelerator pedal.
Fuel Level Sensor
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) sends a 5-volt signal to
the fuel level sensor. The fuel level sensor will return a signal to
PCM. This signal is used for fuel gauge operation and to prevent
setting a false misfire or fuel system trouble codes. If fuel level is
less than 15 percent, PCM will not set code.
Ignition Sense
Ignition switch position input to Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). PCM uses input to determine proper output functions, including
cruise control, generator output, sensor supply and transmission
functions.
Transmission Speed Sensor (A/T Models)

Fig. 6: Locating Intake Manifold Air Heater Relays
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The MIL is located on the instrument panel, just below
tachometer and may also be referred to as the CHECK ENGINE light. MIL
comes on for a short period and then goes off as a bulb and wiring
circuit test each time ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
If Engine Control Module (ECM) receives an incorrect signal or
receives no signal from certain sensors or components, ECM will turn
on the MIL to warn the driver that a malfunction exists in the
electronic system.
Oil Pressure Gauge/Warning Light
Oil pressure gauge/warning light output from Engine Control
Module (ECM) to instrument cluster is routed on CCD Bus circuit.

WAIT-TO-START Warning Light
WAIT-TO-START warning light is located on instrument panel,
just below the speedometer. WAIT-TO-START warning light will come on
for a short period and then go off as a bulb and wiring circuit test
each time ignition switch is turned to the ON position. If Engine
Control Module (ECM) determines intake manifold air temperature is
less than 59
F (15C) by input signal received from intake manifold
air temperature sensor, ECM delivers output signal to operate WAIT-TO-
START warning light and intake manifold air heater for a preheat
cycle.
WAIT-TO-START warning light will remain on until intake
manifold air heater preheat cycle is complete. WAIT-TO-START warning
light will flash on and off if intake manifold air temperature sensor
signal to ECM is not within a specified value and Diagnostic Trouble
Code (FTC) will be stored in ECM memory.
WATER-IN-FUEL Warning Light
WATER-IN-FUEL warning light is located on instrument panel,
just below tachometer. WATER-IN-FUEL warning light will come on for a
short period and then go off as a bulb and wiring circuit test each
time ignition switch is turned to the ON position. If Engine Control
Module (ECM) determines water exists in fuel/water separator by input
signal from Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor, ECM will deliver output signal\
to turn on the WATER-IN-FUEL warning light.
ECM/PCM OUTPUT SIGNALS
A/C Clutch Relay
The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls A/C compressor
operation by controlling ground circuit for A/C clutch relay. ECM de-
energizes A/C clutch relay if engine coolant temperature is more than
257
F (125C). The A/C clutch relay is located in power distribution
center at driver's side front corner of engine compartment, near the
battery.
Automatic Shutdown (ASD) Relay
The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls ASD operation by
controlling ground circuit for ASD relay. ASD provides voltage to
operate generator field control for charging system. ASD relay is
located in power distribution center at driver's side front corner of
engine compartment, near the battery. Automatic Shutdown (ASD) relay
may also be referred to as Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay.
CCD Bus
These circuits are connected between Engine Control Module
(ECM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to allow communication
between modules.
Cruise Control System
Engine Control Module (ECM) regulates cruise control system
operation by controlling vacuum at cruise control servo. Vacuum is
controlled by use of vacuum and vent solenoids in cruise control
servo.
Data Link Connector
Engine Control Module (ECM) provides output information at
Data Link Connector (DLC) when using scan tool to perform various
tests on the ECM and electronic control system. Data link connector is
a 16-pin connector located at lower edge of driver's side of
instrument panel, just above the accelerator pedal.
5-Volt Sensor Supply Output
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies a 5-volt reference

signal to the transmission solenoid assembly for transmission
temperature sensor.
Generator Field
Engine Control Module (ECM) provides output signals to
generator field for regulating charging system voltage at 12.9-15.0
volts. ECM contains an internal electronic voltage regulator for
controlling the charging system voltage.
Generator Light
If Engine Control Module (ECM) senses a low charging system
condition, generator light on instrument panel (if equipped) will be
turned on. Generator light may also come on momentarily at low idle
speed when all accessories are on.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The MIL is located on the instrument panel, just below
tachometer and may also be referred to as the CHECK ENGINE light. MIL
comes on for a short period and then goes off as a bulb and wiring
circuit test each time ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
If Engine Control Module (ECM) receives an incorrect signal or
receives no signal from certain sensors or components, ECM will turn
on the MIL to warn the driver that a malfunction exists in the
electronic system.
Overdrive Indicator Light (A/T Models)
Engine Control Module (ECM) delivers output signal to operate\
transmission overdrive indicator (O/D OFF) light in accordance with
position of the transmission overdrive switch. If overdrive is turned
off with transmission overdrive switch, transmission overdrive
indicator light will be turned on. Transmission overdrive indicator
light is located on instrument panel, just below the speedometer.
Tachometer
Engine Control Module (ECM) delivers output signal to operate\
tachometer on instrument panel to indicate engine RPM.
Transmission Overdrive Solenoid (A/T Models)
Engine Control Module (ECM) delivers output signal to
transmission overdrive solenoid for controlling transmission overdrive
shifts. Transmission overdrive solenoid is located on transmission
valve body.
Transmission Relay (A/T Models)
Transmission relay may be referred to as transmission control
relay or transmission 12-volt supply relay. Transmission relay ground
circuit is controlled by the Engine Control Module (ECM). When ground
circuit is completed, transmission relay supplies voltage to solenoid
assembly on the transmission. Transmission relay is located in power
distribution center at driver's side front corner of engine
compartment, near the battery.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light (A/T Models With
Heavy-Duty Transmission)
Engine Control Module (ECM) delivers output signal to turn on\
transmission temperature warning light if transmission fluid
temperature is determined to be greater than 280
F (138C) by the
transmission temperature sensor. Transmission temperature warning
light is located on instrument panel, just below the tachometer.
Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid (A/T Models)
Engine Control Module (ECM) delivers an output signal to
operate transmission torque converter clutch solenoid for torque

converter lock-up. ECM uses various input signals such as transmission
temperature, output shaft speed, central module timer, engine speed,
APPS and brake switch position to determine operation of transmission
torque converter clutch solenoid. Transmission torque converter clutch
solenoid is located on transmission valve body.
FUEL SYSTEM
FUEL DELIVERY
Fuel Injection Pump
A camshaft-driven Bosch VP44 in-line fuel injection pump is
used to supply high pressure fuel to each fuel injector in precise
metered amounts at the correct time. See Fig. 2. The pump is timed to
camshaft gear. Pump output is controlled by integral Fuel Pump Control
Module (FPCM). Because of electronic control, idle speeds and pump
timing are not adjustable. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS - TRUCKS -
DIESEL article. FPCM can operate engine if crankshaft position sensor
signal does not exist. Fuel injection occurs near completion of
compression stroke for each cylinder.
Fuel injection pump contains an overflow valve which allows
excess fuel to return to the fuel tank. Overflow valve is located on
side of fuel injection pump and is used to attach the fuel return line
to the fuel injection pump.
Fuel Transfer Pump
Fuel transfer pump is located on driver's side of cylinder
block, above starter. See Fig. 2. A 12 volt, 12-amp electric vane-type
pump supplies low fuel pressure from fuel tank, through fuel
heater/fuel filter/water separator to fuel injection pump. Fuel
transfer pump contains internal check valves to prevent fuel from
bleeding back into fuel tank during engine shutdown. Pump will self
prime with ignition on for 2 seconds. Pump has 2 modes, 100 percent
duty cycle (10 psi) when engine is running and 25 percent duty cycle
(7 psi) when engine is cranking.
Fuel Filter/Water Separator
Fuel filter/water separator, located on left side of engine,
protects injection pump by removing water and contaminants from fuel.
See Fig. 2 . Assembly also includes fuel heater and Water-In-Fuel (WIF)
sensor.
In-Tank Fuel Filter
A separate in-tank fuel filter is attached to bottom of fuel
tank module. In-tank fuel filter does not require service under normal
conditions.
FUEL CONTROL
Fuel Injector
Fuel injector delivers atomized fuel into the cylinder.
During fuel injection, fuel pressure from fuel injection pump
increases to fuel injector opening pressure or pop pressure of 4500
psi (316 kg/cm

). This is the pressure required to lift fuel injector
needle valve from its seat, allowing fuel to be injected into the
cylinder. Once fuel pressure decreases to less then the opening
pressure, a spring forces needle valve closed and stops fuel injection
into the cylinders. Each fuel injector is connected to injection pump
by a high pressure (as much as 17,405 psi) line.
Fuel Injection Timing
Pump output is controlled by integral Fuel Pump Control

Module (FPCM). Because of electronic control, pump timing is not
adjustable. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS - TRUCKS - DIESEL article.
FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR
Fuel filter/water separator is located on left side of engine
and contains fuel heater, Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor and drain valve.
See Fig. 2 . The WIF sensor delivers an input signal to Engine Control
Module (ECM) when water exists in fuel filter/water separator. ECM
will then turn on WATER-IN-FUEL warning light. WATER-IN-FUEL warning
light is located on instrument panel, just below tachometer. The
WATER-IN-FUEL warning light informs the operator to drain water from
fuel filter/water separator to prevent damage to fuel system
components. Water may be drained from fuel filter/water separator by
using drain valve on fuel filter/water separator.
FUEL HEATER
Fuel heater is used to prevent diesel fuel from waxing during
cold temperatures. Fuel heater is located in fuel filter/water
separator. See Fig. 2. Fuel flows from fuel tank to fuel transfer pump
and then to fuel filter/water separator. Fuel heater contains a fuel
heater temperature sensor that senses the fuel temperature. When
temperature is less than 37-53
F (3-12C), fuel heater temperature
sensor allows current to flow to the fuel heater to warm the fuel.
When temperature is more than 67-83
F (19-28C), fuel heater
temperature sensor turns off the current flow to the fuel heater.
Voltage to operate fuel heater is provided from ignition switch,
through fuel heater relay and to fuel heater. Fuel heater and fuel
heater relay are not controlled by Engine Control Module (ECM).
EMISSION SYSTEMS
INTAKE MANIFOLD AIR HEATER SYSTEM
Intake manifold air heater is used to warm intake air during
cold starting conditions. Heater system consists of 2 relays and 2
grid heaters installed on top of intake manifold. See Fig. 5.
Engine Control Module (ECM) energizes intake manifold air
heater relays to provide voltage to intake manifold air heater before
and after starting depending on input signals from intake manifold air
temperature sensor, engine speed sensor and vehicle speed. Intake
manifold air heater relays are not energized when intake manifold air
temperature is greater than 59
F (15C) or during engine cranking.
Intake manifold air heater relays are mounted on left inner wheelwell,
below left side battery. See Fig. 6.
Intake manifold air temperature sensor monitors intake
manifold air temperature and delivers an input signal to ECM for
controlling intake manifold air heater. Intake manifold air
temperature sensor is located in intake manifold. See Figs. 2 and 4.
SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
DATA LINK CONNECTOR
The Data Link Connector (DLC) is a 16-pin connector located
at lower edge of driver's side of instrument panel, just above the
accelerator pedal. The Engine Control Module (ECM) contains a self-
diagnostic system which stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (FTC) if an
incorrect signal or no signal is received from certain sensors or
components. FTC may be retrieved from ECM for system diagnosis by

using DLC and a scan tool. The DLC also provides a means to
communicate with various vehicle control modules, check system
operating conditions and to operate various system components.
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL)
The MIL is located on the instrument panel, just below
tachometer and may also be referred to as the CHECK ENGINE light. MIL
comes on for a short period and then goes off as a bulb and wiring
circuit test each time ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
If Engine Control Module (ECM) receives an incorrect signal or
receives no signal from certain sensors or components, ECM will turn
on the MIL to warn the driver that a malfunction exists in the
electronic system.
MISCELLANEOUS CONTROLS
TRANSMISSION
Transmission Overdrive Solenoid (A/T Models)
Engine Control Module (ECM) operates transmission overdrive
solenoid for controlling transmission overdrive shifts. Transmission
overdrive solenoid is located on transmission valve body.
Transmission Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid (A/T Models)
Engine Control Module (ECM) operates transmission torque
converter clutch solenoid for torque converter lock-up. ECM uses
various input signals such as transmission temperature, output shaft
speed, central module timer, engine speed, APPS and brake switch
position to determine operation of transmission torque converter
clutch solenoid. Torque converter clutch solenoid is located on
transmission valve body.


E - T H EO RY/O PER ATIO N - R W D - G ASO LIN E

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1999 ENGINE PERFORMANCE
CHRY - Theory & Operation - Trucks & RWD Vans - Gasoline
Dakota, Durango, Ram Pickup, Ram Van, Ram Wagon
INTRODUCTION
This article covers the basic description and operation of
engine performance related systems and components. Read this article
before working on unfamiliar systems.
COMPUTERIZED ENGINE CONTROLS
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM)
The PCM is a digital computer that controls ignition timing,
air/fuel ratio, fuel injector pulse width, ignition coil(s), spark
advance, emission control devices, cooling fan, charging system, idle
speed, cruise control (if equipped), fuel pump and tachometer. For PCM\
location, see PCM LOCATION. PCM uses data from various input sources
to control output devices in order to achieve optimum engine
performance for all operating conditions.
PCM has voltage converters that convert battery voltage to
regulated 5-volt output. The 5-volt output powers battery temperature
sensor, Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor on models equipped with
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor on models without\
DIS, Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature
(ECT) sensor, Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor, logic circuits,
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor, Throttle Position (TP) sens\
or
and Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) on some models.
PCM LOCATION









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Application Location
Dakota & Durango ................. Right Front Fender, Near Firewall
Ram Pickup, Ram Van & Ram Wagon .... On Firewall, Near Wiper Motor









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NOTE: Components are grouped into 2 categories. The first category,
INPUT DEVICES, includes components that control or produce
voltage signals monitored by the PCM. The second category,
OUTPUT SIGNALS, includes components controlled by the PCM
(this is accomplished by the PCM grounding individual
circuits).
INPUT DEVICES
Vehicles are equipped with different combinations of input
devices. Not all devices are used on all models. To determine
component location and input usage on a specific model, see
appropriate wiring diagram in WIRING DIAGRAMS article. Available input
signals include:
A/C Switch
Switch signals PCM that A/C has been selected. PCM then
activates A/C compressor clutch relay and maintains idle speed at a
preprogrammed RPM. This is done through control of Idle Air Control