steering DODGE RAM 1999 Service Repair Manual

Power Steering Pressure Switch
On 2.5L Dakota only, power steering pressure switch sends a
signal to PCM. PCM will raise idle speed to prevent stalling during
high power steering pressure (375-575 psi), low RPM conditions.
Serial Communication Interface (SCI) Receive
SCI receive circuit is a serial communication link used when
diagnosing vehicle using scan tool. PCM receives data and device
activation commands from scan tool on this circuit.
Throttle Position (TP) Sensor
TP sensor monitors opening angle of throttle blade. TP sensor
will vary output voltage from about .26 volt at minimum throttle
opening (idle), to about 4.5 volts at Wide Open Throttle (WOT). PCM
uses this information and other sensor inputs to determine engine
operation. In response, PCM will adjust fuel injection pulse width and
ignition timing.
Transmission Governor Pressure Sensor (A/T Models)
Sensor sends PCM a signal indicating governor pressure. PCM
uses signal as feedback for governor solenoid control.
Transmission Overdrive/Override (OD/OR) Switch (A/T Models)
On models with Overdrive (OD), PCM regulates 3-4 OD upshift
and downshift through OD solenoid. Transmission OD/OR switch is
mounted in instrument panel.
OD/OR switch is normally closed. If OD/OR switch is depressed
and it opens, transmission will not enter OD. Transmission will
downshift if it is in OD and OD/OR switch is depressed.
OD/OR switch circuit includes a transmission fluid
temperature sensor. If this sensor opens, transmission will not shift
into overdrive, or will downshift if already in overdrive.
Transmission Temperature Sensor (A/T Models)
Transmission temperature sensor monitors transmission fluid
temperature and sends an input signal to PCM. Input signal is used for
controlling torque converter clutch operation, overdrive shifts, low
temperature shift compensation, wide open throttle shift strategy and
governor pressure. Transmission temperature sensor is located in
transmission valve body, incorporated into governor pressure sensor.
If transmission fluid temperature is more than 260
F (126C),
PCM forces a 4-3 downshift and engages torque converter clutch until
fluid cools. Once fluid cools to less than 230
F (110C), PCM allows a
3-4 shift. PCM prevents torque converter clutch engagement and
overdrive operation when fluid temperature is less than 50
F (10C).
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
VSS generates 8 pulses per sensor revolution. VSS input is
used by PCM to determine vehicle speed and distance traveled, and to
maintain set speed during cruise control operation.
PCM interprets speed sensor input along with TP sensor closed
throttle input. This enables PCM to determine if a closed throttle
deceleration or normal throttle idle (vehicle stopped) condition
exists. During deceleration, PCM controls IAC motor to maintain a
desired MAP value. During idle (vehicle stopped), PCM controls IAC
motor to maintain a desired idle speed.
OUTPUT SIGNALS
NOTE: Each vehicle may be equipped with different combinations of
computer-controlled components. The following components may
NOT be used on all models. To determine component location
and output usage on a specific model, see appropriate wiring

PCM controls operation of electric cooling fan. PCM operates fan
through radiator fan relay by grounding or ungrounding relay control
circuit. PCM regulates engine idle speed through IAC motor when fan is
on.
SHIFT INDICATOR LIGHT
PCM provides ground for shift indicator light on models
equipped with manual transmission. Based on engine speed, throttle
position, and vehicle speed, PCM turns shift indicator light on to
advise driver to shift to a higher gear for optimum fuel economy.
SPEED CONTROL SERVO
System is electrically actuated and vacuum operated. Controls
are located on steering wheel. Controls consist of 3 buttons: OFF/ON,
RESUME/ACCEL and SET/DECEL. Speed control servo is controlled by PCM.
System will operate at 35-85 MPH.
TACHOMETER
PCM provides signal to drive tachometer.
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH (TCC) SOLENOID
PCM controls torque converter lock-up through TCC solenoid.
PCM controls lock-up according to various operating conditions.
TRANSMISSION GOVERNOR SOLENOID
PCM controls solenoid to regulate line pressure for shift
control.
TRANSMISSION OVERDRIVE/OVERRIDE (OD/OR) SWITCH INDICATOR
LIGHT
PCM controls indicator light on OD/OR switch on models
equipped with overdrive automatic transmission.
TRANSMISSION OVERDRIVE (OD) SOLENOID
On models equipped with OD transmission, PCM controls 3-4 OD
upshift and downshift through OD solenoid. PCM determines optimum OD
shift scheduling for all operating conditions.

Fig. 1: Measuring Riding Height (Dakota & Durango 4WD)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
JACKING & HOISTING
FLOOR JACK
CAUTION: DO NOT place jack under any part of vehicle underbody. DO NOT
attempt to raise one entire side of vehicle by placing a jack
midway between front and rear wheels, as permanent body
damage could occur. DO NOT place jack under an axle tube,
aluminum differential, steering linkage, engine or
transmission oil pan, fuel tank or front suspension arm.
Caravan, Town & Country, & Voyager
To raise front end, place floor jack under front crossmember
forward flange, inboard of lower control arm pivot. To raise rear end,
place floor jack under rear axle, next to leaf spring mount. See
Fig. 2 .

NOTE: Set each front wheel at 1/2 of total toe specification. On
vehicles equipped with power steering, set wheel toe position
with engine running.
Except Ram Van/Wagon & 4WD Models
Center steering wheel and hold with steering wheel clamp.
Loosen tie rod lock nuts. Rotate rods to set toe to specification. See
WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS table. Tighten tie rod lock nuts to
specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Adjust steering gear
to tie rod boots at tie rod. Remove steering wheel clamp. See Fig. 10.
Ram Van/Wagon & 4WD Models
Center steering wheel and hold with steering wheel clamp.
Loosen tie rod adjustment sleeve clamp bolts. Rotate adjustment sleeve
to align toe to specification. See ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS table.
Position sleeve clamps on underside of sleeve so clamp ends are not
over sleeve slot, and tighten adjustment sleeve clamp bolts to
specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Remove steering wheel
clamp. See Fig. 11.
Fig. 10: Adjusting Front Wheel Toe With Tie Rod (Except Ram
Van/Wagon & 4WD Models)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.


WHEEL A LIG NM EN T T H EO RY/O PER ATIO N

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
GENERAL INFORMATION
Wheel Alignment Theory & Operation
ALL MODELS
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
NOTE: This article is intended for general information purposes
only. This information may not apply to all makes and models.
PRE-ALIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL ALIGNMENT CHECKS
Before adjusting wheel alignment, check the following:
* Each axle uses tires of same construction and tread style,
equal in tread wear and overall diameter. Verify that radial
and axial runout is not excessive. Inflation should be at
manufacturer's specifications.
* Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive play.
Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints. Springs must
not be sagging. Control arm and strut rod bushings must not
have excessive play. See Fig. 1.
Fig. 1: Checking Steering Linkage
* Vehicle must be on level floor with full fuel tank, no
passenger load, spare tire in place and no load in trunk.
Bounce front and rear end of vehicle several times. Confirm

vehicle is at normal riding height.
* Steering wheel must be centered with wheels in straight ahead
position. If required, shorten one tie rod adjusting sleeve
and lengthen opposite sleeve (equal amount of turns). See
Fig. 2.
* Wheel bearings should have the correct preload and lug nuts
must be tightened to manufacturer's specifications. Adjust
camber, caster and toe-in using this sequence. Follow
instructions of the alignment equipment manufacturer.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to correct alignment by straightening parts.
Damaged parts must be replaced.
Fig. 2: Adjusting Tie Rod Sleeves (Top View)
CAMBER
1) Camber is the tilting of the wheel, outward at either top
or bottom, as viewed from front of vehicle. See Fig. 3.
2) When wheels tilts outward at the top (from centerline of
vehicle), camber is positive. When wheels tilt inward at top, camber
is negative. Amount of tilt is measured in degrees from vertical.

Fig. 3: Determining Camber Angle
CASTER
1) Caster is tilting of front steering axis either forward or
backward from vertical, as viewed from side of vehicle. See Fig. 4.
2) When axis is tilted backward from vertical, caster is
positive. This creates a trailing action on front wheels. When axis is
tilted forward, caster is negative, causing a leading action on front
wheels.
Fig. 4: Determining Caster Angle
TOE-IN ADJUSTMENT
Toe-in is the width measured at the rear of the tires

subtracted by the width measured at the front of the tires at about
spindle height. A positive figure would indicate toe-in and a negative
figure would indicate toe-out. If the distance between the front and
rear of the tires is the same, toe measurement would be zero. To
adjust:
1) Measure toe-in with front wheels in straight ahead
position and steering wheel centered. To adjust toe-in, loosen clamps
and turn adjusting sleeve or adjustable end on right and left tie
rods. See Figs. 2 and 5.
2) Turn equally and in opposite directions to maintain
steering wheel in centered position. Face of tie rod end must be
parallel with machined surface of steering rod end to prevent binding.
3) When tightening clamps, make certain that clamp bolts are
positioned so there will be no interference with other parts
throughout the entire travel of linkage.
Fig. 5: Wheel Toe-In (Dimension A Less Dimension B)
TOE-OUT ON TURNS
1) Toe-out on turns (turning radius) is a check for bent or
damaged parts, and not a service adjustment. With caster, camber, and
toe-in properly adjusted, check toe-out with weight of vehicle on
wheels.
2) Use a full floating turntable under each wheel, repeating
test with each wheel positioned for right and left turns. Incorrect
toe-out generally indicates a bent steering arm. Replace arm, if
necessary, and recheck wheel alignment.

STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
1) Steering axis inclination is a check for bent or damaged
parts, and not a service adjustment. Vehicle must be level and camber
should be properly adjusted. See Fig. 6.
2) If camber cannot be brought within limits and steering
axis inclination is correct, steering knuckle is bent. If camber and
steering axis inclination are both incorrect by approximately the same
amount, the upper and lower control arms are bent.
Fig. 6: Checking Steering Axis Inclination


WIN DO W S - P O W ER

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1999 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT
CHRY - Power Windows
Caravan, Dakota, Durango, Ram Pickup, Ram Van, Ram Wagon,
Town & Country, & Voyager
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
A permanent magnet motor moves each of the power windows,
including power vent windows. A positive and negative battery
connection to either of the 2 motor terminals will cause the motor to
rotate in one direction. Reversing current through these same 2
connections will cause the motor to rotate in the opposite direction.
Each individual motor is grounded through the master switch by a wire
attached to the instrument panel reinforcement.
Caravan, Durango, Town & Country and Voyager are equipped
with an Auto Down feature. Drivers window can be lowered without
having to hold the switch in the down position. Auto Down feature can
be activated by pressing down switch past first detent. Caravan, Town
& Country and Voyager have optional power vent windows. Power rear
vent windows are operated by switches mounted in driver's door panel.
NOTE: Power window circuits on Caravan, Town & Country, and Voyager
use Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) devices. The PTC
is a specified amperage solid-state resettable fuse. PTCs are
located in junction box behind driver's side of instrument
panel, to left of steering column. To reset PTC, all current
must be removed from PTC for approximately 20 seconds.
ADJUSTMENTS
WINDOWS
Remove door trim panel. See DOOR TRIM PANEL under REMOVAL &
INSTALLATION. Loosen bolts holding window to regulator. Raise window
fully, seating window in frame. Tighten bolts. Install door trim
panel.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER
Inspect both No. 8 and 9 (9-amp) PTCs in junction block.
Junction block is located under left side of instrument panel.
* Inspect fuse No. 23 (40-amp) in Power Distribution Center
(PDC). PDC is located on left side of engine compartment.
* Inspect ground at instrument panel left side cowl.
DAKOTA & DURANGO
Inspect circuit breaker No. 20 (20-amp on Dakota, 25-amp on
Durango) in fuse block. Fuse block is located on left end of
instrument panel.
* Inspect fuse No. 9 (40-amp) in Power Distribution Center
(PDC). PDC is located in left front corner of engine