torque DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual

Do not install sensor with gear positioned at
low area (Fig. 22) or (Fig. 21). When the engine
is started, the sensor will be broken.
(2) Using a 1/2 in. wide metal ruler, measure the
distance from the cam gear to the face of the sensor
mounting hole opening on the timing gear cover (Fig.
22).
(3) If the dimension is approximately 1.818 inches,
it is OK to install sensor. Proceed to step Step 9.
(4) If the dimension is approximately 2.018 inches,
the cam gear will have to be rotated.
(5) Attach a socket to the vibration damper mount-
ing bolt and rotate engine until the 1.818 inch
dimension is attained.
(6) Install the sensor into the timing case/cover
with a slight rocking action. Do not twist the sensor
into position as damage to the o-ring may result.
Push the sensor all the way into the cover until the
rib material on the sensor (Fig. 19) contacts the cam-
shaft gear.
(7) Install the mounting bolt and tighten to 6 N´m
(50 in. lbs.) torque.
(8) Connect sensor wiring harness to engine har-
ness.When the engine is started, the rib material will be
sheared off the face of sensor. This will automatically
set sensor air gap.
DISTRIBUTOR
DESCRIPTION
All 5.9L V-8 engines are equipped with a camshaft
driven mechanical distributor (Fig. 23) containing a
shaft driven distributor rotor. All distributors are
equipped with an internal camshaft position (fuel
sync) sensor (Fig. 23).
OPERATION
The distributor does not have built in centrifugal
or vacuum assisted advance. Base ignition timing
and all timing advance is controlled by the Power-
train Control Module (PCM). Because ignition timing
is controlled by the PCM,base ignition timing is
not adjustable.
The distributor is held to the engine in the conven-
tional method using a holddown clamp and bolt.
Although the distributor can be rotated, it will
have no effect on ignition timing.
All distributors contain an internal oil seal that
prevents oil from entering the distributor housing.
The seal is not serviceable.
Fig. 22 SENSOR DEPTH DIMENSIONS ± 8.0L V-10
ENGINE
1 - 2.01888DO NOT INSTALL SENSOR2 - SENSOR MOUNTING HOLE OPENING
3 - SENSOR CENTER LINE
4 - TIMING CHAIN COVER
5 - 1.81888OK TO INSTALL SENSOR
6 - CAM DRIVE GEAR
7 - HIGH MACHINED AREA
8 - LOW MACHINED AREA
Fig. 23 DISTRIBUTOR AND CAMSHAFT POSITION
SENSOR - 5.9L
1 - SYNC SIGNAL GENERATOR
2 - CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
3 - PULSE RING
4 - DISTRIBUTOR ASSEMBLY
8I - 16 IGNITION CONTROLDR
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

INSTALLATION
If engine has been cranked while distributor is
removed, establish the relationship between distribu-
tor shaft and number one piston position as follows:
Rotate crankshaft in a clockwise direction, as
viewed from front, until number one cylinder piston
is at top of compression stroke (compression should
be felt on finger with number one spark plug
removed). Then continue to slowly rotate engine
clockwise until indicating mark (Fig. 24) is aligned to
0 degree (TDC) mark on timing chain cover.
(1) Clean top of cylinder block for a good seal
between distributor base and block.
(2) Lightly oil the rubber o-ring seal on the distrib-
utor housing.
(3) Install rotor to distributor shaft.
(4) Position distributor into engine to its original
position. Engage tongue of distributor shaft with slot
in distributor oil pump drive gear. Position rotor to
the number one spark plug cable position.
(5) Install distributor holddown clamp and clamp
bolt. Do not tighten bolt at this time.
(6) Rotate the distributor housing until rotor is
aligned to CYL. NO. 1 alignment mark on the cam-
shaft position sensor (Fig. 25).
(7) Tighten clamp holddown bolt (Fig. 26) to 22.5
N´m (200 in. lbs.) torque.
(8) Connect camshaft position sensor wiring har-
ness to main engine harness.
(9) Install distributor cap. Tighten mounting
screws.
(10) Refer to the following, Checking Distributor
Position.
Checking Distributor Position
To verify correct distributor rotational position, the
DRB scan tool must be used.
WARNING: WHEN PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
TEST, THE ENGINE WILL BE RUNNING. BE CARE-
FUL NOT TO STAND IN LINE WITH THE FAN
BLADES OR FAN BELT. DO NOT WEAR LOOSE
CLOTHING.
(1) Connect DRB scan tool to data link connector.
The data link connector is located in passenger com-
partment, below and to left of steering column.
(2) Gain access to SET SYNC screen on DRB.
(3) Follow directions on DRB screen and start
engine. Bring to operating temperature (engine must
be in ªclosed loopº mode).
(4) With engine running atidle speed, the words
IN RANGE should appear on screen along with 0É.
This indicates correct distributor position.(5) If a plus (+) or a minus (-) is displayed next to
degree number, and/or the degree displayed is not
zero, loosen but do not remove distributor holddown
clamp bolt. Rotate distributor until IN RANGE
appears on screen. Continue to rotate distributor
until achieving as close to 0É as possible. After
adjustment, tighten clamp bolt to 22.5 N´m (200 in.
lbs.) torque.
Do not attempt to adjust ignition timing using this
method. Rotating distributor will have no effect on
ignition timing. All ignition timing values are con-
trolled by Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
After testing, install air cleaner tubing.
DISTRIBUTOR CAP
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - DISTRIBUTOR
CAP - 5.9L V-8
Remove the distributor cap and wipe it clean with
a dry lint free cloth. Visually inspect the cap for
cracks, carbon paths, broken towers or damaged
rotor button (Fig. 27) or (Fig. 28). Also check for
white deposits on the inside (caused by condensation
entering the cap through cracks). Replace any cap
that displays charred or eroded terminals. The
machined surface of a terminal end (faces toward
rotor) will indicate some evidence of erosion from
normal operation. Examine the terminal ends for evi-
dence of mechanical interference with the rotor tip.
Fig. 27 CAP INSPECTIONÐEXTERNALÐTYPICAL
1 - BROKEN TOWER
2 - DISTRIBUTOR CAP
3 - CARBON PATH
4 - CRACK
8I - 18 IGNITION CONTROLDR
DISTRIBUTOR (Continued)

WARNING: 5.9L V-8 LDC-GAS ENGINES: DO NOT
REMOVE THE COIL MOUNTING BRACKET-TO-CYL-
INDER HEAD MOUNTING BOLTS. THE COIL
MOUNTING BRACKET IS UNDER ACCESSORY
DRIVE BELT TENSION. IF THIS BRACKET IS TO BE
REMOVED FOR ANY REASON, ALL BELT TENSION
MUST FIRST BE RELIEVED. REFER TO THE BELT
SECTION OF GROUP 7, COOLING SYSTEM.
5.9L V-8 HDC-Gas Engine: The coil is mounted to
a bracket that is bolted to the air injection pump
(AIR pump) mounting bracket (Fig. 36).
(1) Disconnect primary coil connector from ignition
coil.
(2) Disconnect secondary cable from ignition coil.
(3) Remove ignition coil from coil mounting
bracket (two bolts).
8.0L V-10
Two separate coil packs containing a total of five
independent coils are attached to a common mount-
ing bracket located above the right engine valve
cover (Fig. 37). The front and rear coil packs can be
serviced separately.
(1) Depending on which coil is being removed, the
throttle body air intake tube or intake box may need
to be removed to gain access to coils.
(2) Remove secondary spark plug cables from coil
packs. Note position of cables before removal.
(3) Disconnect primary wiring harness connectors
at coil packs.
(4) Remove four (4) coil pack-to-coil mounting
bracket bolts for coil pack being serviced (Fig. 37).
(5) Remove coil(s) from mounting bracket.
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
(1) Using compressed air, blow out any dirt or con-
taminants from around top of spark plug.
(2) Check condition of coil o-ring and replace as
necessary. To aid in coil installation, apply silicone to
coil o-ring.
(3) Position ignition coil into cylinder head opening
and push onto spark plug. Do this while guiding coil
base over mounting stud.
(4) Install coil mounting stud nut. Refer to torque
specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to coil by snapping
into position.
(6) If necessary, install throttle body air tube.
4.7L V-8
(1) Using compressed air, blow out any dirt or con-
taminants from around top of spark plug.
(2) Check condition of coil o-ring and replace as
necessary. To aid in coil installation, apply silicone to
coil o-ring.
(3) Position ignition coil into cylinder head opening
and push onto spark plug. Do this while guiding coil
base over mounting stud.
(4) Install coil mounting stud nut. Refer to torque
specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to coil by snapping
into position.
(6) If necessary, install throttle body air tube.
5.7L V-8
(1) Using compressed air, blow out any dirt or con-
taminants from around top of spark plug.
(2) Before installing spark plug cables to either the
spark plugs or coils, or before installing a coil to a
spark plug, apply dielectric grease to inside of boots.
(3) Position ignition coil into cylinder head opening
and push onto spark plug. Twist coil into position.
(4) Install 2 coil mounting bolts. Refer to torque
specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to coil by snapping
into position.
(6) Install cable to coil. To prevent ignition cross-
fire, spark plug cablesMUSTbe placed in cable tray
(routing loom) into their original position. Refer to
Spark Plug Cable Removal for a graphic.
(7) If necessary, install throttle body air tube.
5.9L V-8
The ignition coil is an epoxy filled type. If the coil
is replaced, it must be replaced with the same type.
(1) Install ignition coil to coil bracket. If nuts and
bolts are used to secure coil to coil bracket, tighten to
11 N´m (100 in. lbs.) torque. If coil mounting bracket
has been tapped for coil mounting bolts, tighten bolts
to 5 N´m (50 in. lbs.) torque.
(2) Connect all wiring to ignition coil.
8.0L V-10
(1) Position coil packs to mounting bracket (prima-
ry wiring connectors face downward).
(2) Install coil pack mounting bolts. Tighten bolts
to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install coil pack-to-engine mounting bracket (if
necessary).
(4) Connect primary wiring connectors to coil
packs (four wire connector to front coil pack and
three wire connector to rear coil pack).
(5) Connect secondary spark plug cables to coil
packs. Refer to (Fig. 38) for correct cable order.
8I - 24 IGNITION CONTROLDR
IGNITION COIL (Continued)

(6)If necessary, install throttle body air tube or box.
KNOCK SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The sensors are used only with 3.7L V-6, 4.7L V-8
and 5.7L V-8 engines. On 3.7L V-6 and 4.7L V-8
engines, the 2 knock sensors are bolted into the cyl-
inder block under the intake manifold.
On 5.7L V-8 engines, 2 knock sensors are also
used. These are bolted into each side of the cylinder
block (outside) under the exhaust manifold.
OPERATION
3.7L V-6 / 4.7L V-8 / 5.7L V-8 Engines Only
Two knock sensors are used; one for each cylinder
bank. When the knock sensor detects a knock in one
of the cylinders on the corresponding bank, it sends
an input signal to the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). In response, the PCM retards ignition timing
for all cylinders by a scheduled amount.
Knock sensors contain a piezoelectric material
which constantly vibrates and sends an input voltage
(signal) to the PCM while the engine operates. As the
intensity of the crystal's vibration increases, the
knock sensor output voltage also increases.The voltage signal produced by the knock sensor
increases with the amplitude of vibration. The PCM
receives the knock sensor voltage signal as an input.
If the signal rises above a predetermined level, the
PCM will store that value in memory and retard
ignition timing to reduce engine knock. If the knock
sensor voltage exceeds a preset value, the PCM
retards ignition timing for all cylinders. It is not a
selective cylinder retard.
The PCM ignores knock sensor input during engine
idle conditions. Once the engine speed exceeds a
specified value, knock retard is allowed.
Knock retard uses its own short term and long
term memory program.
Long term memory stores previous detonation
information in its battery-backed RAM. The maxi-
mum authority that long term memory has over tim-
ing retard can be calibrated.
Short term memory is allowed to retard timing up
to a preset amount under all operating conditions (as
long as rpm is above the minimum rpm) except at
Wide Open Throttle (WOT). The PCM, using short
term memory, can respond quickly to retard timing
when engine knock is detected. Short term memory
is lost any time the ignition key is turned off.
NOTE: Over or under tightening the sensor mount-
ing bolts will affect knock sensor performance, pos-
sibly causing improper spark control. Always use
the specified torque when installing the knock sen-
sors.
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6 / 4.7L V-8
The 2 knock sensors are bolted into the cylinder
block under the intake manifold (Fig. 39). or (Fig.
40).
NOTE: The left sensor is identified by an identifica-
tion tag (LEFT). It is also identified by a larger bolt
head. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) must
have and know the correct sensor left/right posi-
tions. Do not mix the sensor locations.
(1) Disconnect knock sensor dual pigtail harness
from engine wiring harness. This connection is made
near rear of engine.
(2) Remove intake manifold. Refer to Engine sec-
tion.
(3) Remove sensor mounting bolts (Fig. 39), or
(Fig. 40). Note foam strip on bolt threads. This foam
is used only to retain the bolts to sensors for plant
assembly. It is not used as a sealant. Do not apply
any adhesive, sealant or thread locking compound to
these bolts.
Fig. 38 SPARK PLUG CABLE ORDER - 8.0L V-10
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 25
IGNITION COIL (Continued)

NOTE: Over or under tightening the sensor mount-
ing bolts will affect knock sensor performance, pos-
sibly causing improper spark control. Always use
the specified torque when installing the knock sen-
sors. The torque for the knock senor bolt is rela-
tively light for an 8mm bolt.
NOTE: Note foam strip on bolt threads. This foam is
used only to retain the bolts to sensors for plant
assembly. It is not used as a sealant. Do not apply
any adhesive, sealant or thread locking compound
to these bolts.
(3) Install and tighten mounting bolts. Refer to
torque specification.
(4) Install intake manifold. Refer to Engine sec-
tion.
(5) Connect knock sensor wiring harness to engine
harness at rear of intake manifold.
5.7L V-8
(1) Thoroughly clean knock sensor mounting hole.
(2) Install sensor into cylinder block.
NOTE: Over or under tightening the sensor mount-
ing bolts will affect knock sensor performance, pos-
sibly causing improper spark control. Always use
the specified torque when installing the knock sen-
sors. The torque for the knock senor bolt is rela-
tively light for an 8mm bolt.
NOTE: Note foam strip on bolt threads. This foam is
used only to retain the bolts to sensors for plant
assembly. It is not used as a sealant. Do not apply
any adhesive, sealant or thread locking compound
to these bolts.
(3) Install and tighten mounting bolt. Refer to
torque specification.
(4) Install electrical connector to sensor.
SPARK PLUG
DESCRIPTION
Resistor type spark plugs are used on all engines.
Sixteen spark plugs (2 per cylinder) are used with
5.7L V-8 engines.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SPARK PLUG
CONDITIONS
To prevent possible pre-ignition and/or mechanical
engine damage, the correct type/heat range/number
spark plug must be used.
Always use the recommended torque when tighten-
ing spark plugs. Incorrect torque can distort the
spark plug and change plug gap. It can also pull the
plug threads and do possible damage to both the
spark plug and the cylinder head.
Remove the spark plugs and examine them for
burned electrodes and fouled, cracked or broken por-
celain insulators. Keep plugs arranged in the order
in which they were removed from the engine. A sin-
gle plug displaying an abnormal condition indicates
that a problem exists in the corresponding cylinder.
Replace spark plugs at the intervals recommended in
the Lubrication and Maintenance section.
Spark plugs that have low mileage may be cleaned
and reused if not otherwise defective, carbon or oil
fouled.
CAUTION: Never use a motorized wire wheel brush
to clean the spark plugs. Metallic deposits will
remain on the spark plug insulator and will cause
plug misfire.
Spark plug resistance values range from 6,000 to
20,000 ohms (when checked with at least a 1000 volt
spark plug tester).Do not use an ohmmeter to
check the resistance values of the spark plugs.
Inaccurate readings will result.
NORMAL OPERATING
The few deposits present on the spark plug will
probably be light tan or slightly gray in color. This is
evident with most grades of commercial gasoline
(Fig. 42). There will not be evidence of electrode
burning. Gap growth will not average more than
approximately 0.025 mm (.001 in) per 3200 km (2000
miles) of operation. Spark plugs that have normal
wear can usually be cleaned, have the electrodes
filed, have the gap set and then be installed.
Some fuel refiners in several areas of the United
States have introduced a manganese additive (MMT)
for unleaded fuel. During combustion, fuel with MMT
causes the entire tip of the spark plug to be coated
with a rust colored deposit. This rust color can be
misdiagnosed as being caused by coolant in the com-
bustion chamber. Spark plug performance may be
affected by MMT deposits.
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 27
KNOCK SENSOR (Continued)

COLD FOULING/CARBON FOULING
Cold fouling is sometimes referred to as carbon
fouling. The deposits that cause cold fouling are basi-
cally carbon (Fig. 42). A dry, black deposit on one or
two plugs in a set may be caused by sticking valves
or defective spark plug cables. Cold (carbon) fouling
of the entire set of spark plugs may be caused by a
clogged air cleaner element or repeated short operat-
ing times (short trips).
WET FOULING OR GAS FOULING
A spark plug coated with excessive wet fuel or oil
is wet fouled. In older engines, worn piston rings,
leaking valve guide seals or excessive cylinder wear
can cause wet fouling. In new or recently overhauled
engines, wet fouling may occur before break-in (nor-
mal oil control) is achieved. This condition can usu-
ally be resolved by cleaning and reinstalling the
fouled plugs.
OIL OR ASH ENCRUSTED
If one or more spark plugs are oil or oil ash
encrusted (Fig. 43), evaluate engine condition for the
cause of oil entry into that particular combustion
chamber.
ELECTRODE GAP BRIDGING
Electrode gap bridging may be traced to loose
deposits in the combustion chamber. These deposits
accumulate on the spark plugs during continuous
stop-and-go driving. When the engine is suddenly
subjected to a high torque load, deposits partially liq-
uefy and bridge the gap between electrodes (Fig. 44).
This short circuits the electrodes. Spark plugs withelectrode gap bridging can be cleaned using standard
procedures.
SCAVENGER DEPOSITS
Fuel scavenger deposits may be either white or yel-
low (Fig. 45). They may appear to be harmful, but
this is a normal condition caused by chemical addi-
tives in certain fuels. These additives are designed to
change the chemical nature of deposits and decrease
spark plug misfire tendencies. Notice that accumula-
tion on the ground electrode and shell area may be
heavy, but the deposits are easily removed. Spark
plugs with scavenger deposits can be considered nor-
Fig. 42 NORMAL OPERATION AND COLD (CARBON)
FOULING
1 - NORMAL
2 - DRY BLACK DEPOSITS
3 - COLD (CARBON) FOULING
Fig. 43 OIL OR ASH ENCRUSTED
Fig. 44 ELECTRODE GAP BRIDGING
1 - GROUND ELECTRODE
2 - DEPOSITS
3 - CENTER ELECTRODE
8I - 28 IGNITION CONTROLDR
SPARK PLUG (Continued)

8.0L V-10
(1) Always remove spark plug or ignition coil
cables by grasping at the cable boot (Fig. 50). Turn
the cable boot 1/2 turn and pull straight back in a
steady motion. Never pull directly on the cable.
Internal damage to cable will result.
(2) Prior to removing the spark plug, spray com-
pressed air around the spark plug hole and the area
around the spark plug. This will help prevent foreign
material from entering the combustion chamber.
(3) Remove the spark plug using a quality socket
with a rubber or foam insert.
(4) Inspect the spark plug condition. Refer to Diag-
nostics and Testing - Spark Plug Conditions.
CLEANING
CLEANING AND ADJUSTMENT
The plugs may be cleaned using commercially
available spark plug cleaning equipment. After clean-
ing, file center electrode flat with a small point file or
jewelers file before adjusting gap.
CAUTION: Never use a motorized wire wheel brush
to clean spark plugs. Metallic deposits will remain
on spark plug insulator and will cause plug misfire.
Adjust spark plug gap with a gap gauging tool
(Fig. 51).
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
Special care should be taken when installing spark
plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be
sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as elec-
trodes can be damaged.
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a
change in the spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain
insulator.
(1) Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading.
(2) Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifica-
tions.
(3) Before installing ignition coil(s), check condi-
tion of coil o-ring and replace as necessary. To aid in
coil installation, apply silicone to coil o-ring.
(4) Install ignition coil(s). Refer to Ignition Coil
Removal/Installation.
Fig. 50 CABLE REMOVAL - 5.9L / 8.0L
1 - SPARK PLUG CABLE AND BOOT
2 - SPARK PLUG BOOT PULLER
3 - TWIST AND PULL
4 - SPARK PLUG
Fig. 51 SETTING SPARK PLUG GAP - TYPICAL
1 - GAUGE TOOL
2 - SPARK PLUG
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 31
SPARK PLUG (Continued)

4.7L V-8
CAUTION: The 4.7L V±8 engine is equipped with
copper core ground electrode spark plugs. They
must be replaced with the same type/number spark
plug as the original. If another spark plug is substi-
tuted, pre-ignition will result.
Special care should be taken when installing spark
plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be
sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as elec-
trodes can be damaged.
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a
change in the spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain
insulator.
(1) Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading.
(2) Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifica-
tions.
(3) Before installing ignition coil(s), check condi-
tion of coil o-ring and replace as necessary. To aid in
coil installation, apply silicone to coil o-ring.
(4) Install ignition coil(s). Refer to Ignition Coil
Removal/Installation.
5.7L V-8
(1) Special care should be taken when installing
spark plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells.
Be sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as
electrodes can be damaged.
(2) Start the spark plug into cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading aluminum threads. To
aid in installation, attach a piece of rubber hose, or
an old spark plug boot to spark plug.
(3) The 5.7L V-8 is equipped with torque critical
design spark plugs. Do not exceed 15 ft. lbs. torque.
Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifications.
(4) Before installing spark plug cables to either the
spark plugs or coils, apply dielectric grease to inside
of boots.
(5) To prevent ignition crossfire, spark plug cables
MUSTbe placed in cable tray (routing loom) into
their original position. Refer to Spark Plug Cable
Removal for a graphic.
(6) Install ignition coil(s) to necessary spark plugs.
Refer to Ignition Coil Installation.
(7) Install spark plug cables to remaining spark
plugs. Remember to apply dielectric grease to inside
of boots.
5.9L V-8
Special care should be taken when installing spark
plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be
sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as elec-
trodes can be damaged.
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a
change in the spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain
insulator.
When replacing the spark plug and ignition coil
cables, route the cables correctly and secure them in
the appropriate retainers. Failure to route the cables
properly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition
noise. It could cause cross ignition of the spark plugs
or short circuit the cables to ground.
(1) Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading.
(2) Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifica-
tions.
(3) Install spark plug cables to spark plugs. On
5.9L V-8 engines, spark plug cable heat shields are
pressed into the cylinder head to surround each
spark plug cable boot and spark plug (Fig. 53). These
shields protect the spark plug boots from damage
(due to intense engine heat generated by the exhaust
manifolds) and should not be removed. After the
spark plug cable has been installed, the lip of the
cable boot should have a small air gap to the top of
the heat shield (Fig. 53).
8.0L V-10
Special care should be taken when installing spark
plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be
sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as elec-
trodes can be damaged.
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion resulting in a
change in the spark plug gap or a cracked porcelain
insulator.
When replacing the spark plug and ignition coil
cables, route the cables correctly and secure them in
the appropriate retainers. Failure to route the cables
properly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition
noise. It could cause cross ignition of the spark plugs
or short circuit the cables to ground.
(1) Start the spark plug into the cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading.
(2) Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifica-
tions.
(3) Install spark plug cables to spark plugs.
8I - 32 IGNITION CONTROLDR
SPARK PLUG (Continued)

IGNITION COIL CAPACITOR
DESCRIPTION
One coil capacitor is used. It is located in the right-
rear section of the engine compartment.
OPERATION
The coil capacitor(s) help dampen the amount of
conducted electrical noise to the camshaft position
sensor, crankshaft position sensor, and throttle posi-
tion sensor. This noise is generated on the 12V sup-
ply wire to the ignition coils and fuel injectors.
REMOVAL
The coil capacitor is located in the right-rear sec-
tion of the engine compartment. It is attached with a
mounting stud and nut.
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at capacitor
(Fig. 52).
(2) Remove mounting nut and remove ground
strap.
(3) Remove capacitor.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position capacitor to mounting stud.
(2) Position ground strap to mounting stud.
(3) Tighten nut to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Connect electrical connector to coil capacitor.
SPARK PLUG CABLE
DESCRIPTION
Spark plug cables are sometimes referred to as sec-
ondary ignition wires, or secondary ignition cables.
Plug cables are used only on the 5.7L V-8, 5.9L V-8
and 8.0L V-10 engines.
OPERATION
The spark plug cables transfer electrical current
from the ignition coil(s) and/or distributor, to individ-
ual spark plugs at each cylinder. The resistive spark
plug cables are of nonmetallic construction. The
cables provide suppression of radio frequency emis-
sions from the ignition system.
Plug cables are used only on the 5.7L V-8, 5.9L V-8
and 8.0L V-10 engines.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SPARK PLUG
CABLES
Cable routing is important on certain engines. To
prevent possible ignition crossfire, be sure the cables
are clipped into the plastic routing looms. Refer to
Spark Plug Cable Removal for addditional informa-
tion. Try to prevent any one cable from contacting
another. Before removing cables, note their original
location and routing. Never allow one cable to be
twisted around another.
Check the spark plug cable connections for good
contact at the coil(s), distributor cap towers (if appli-
caple), and spark plugs. Terminals should be fully
seated. The insulators should be in good condition
and should fit tightly on the coil, distributor and
spark plugs. Spark plug cables with insulators that
are cracked or torn must be replaced.
Clean high voltage ignition cables with a cloth
moistened with a non-flammable solvent. Wipe the
cables dry. Check for brittle or cracked insulation.
On 5.9L V-8 engines, spark plug cable heat shields
are pressed into the cylinder head to surround each
spark plug cable boot and spark plug (Fig. 53). These
shields protect the spark plug boots from damage
(due to intense engine heat generated by the exhaust
manifolds) and should not be removed. After the
spark plug cable has been installed, the lip of the
cable boot should have a small air gap to the top of
the heat shield (Fig. 53).
TESTING
When testing secondary cables for damage with an
oscilloscope, follow the instructions of the equipment
manufacturer.
If an oscilloscope is not available, spark plug cables
may be tested as follows:
Fig. 52 CAPACITOR LOCATION
1 - COIL CAPACITOR
2 - MOUNTING STUD
3 - GROUND STRAP
4 - MOUNTING NUT
5 - ELEC. CONNECT.
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 33

graphic north is great enough to cause the compass
to give false readings. If this problem occurs, the
compass variance setting may need to be changed.
To set the compass variance:
(1) Using the Variance Settings map, find your
geographic location and note the zone number (Fig.
4).
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the C/T
push button to reach the compass/temperature dis-
play.
(3) Depress theRESETpush button and hold the
button down until ªVAR = XXº appears in the display.
This takes about five seconds.(4) Release theRESETpush button. ªVAR =XX º
will remain in the display. ªXXº equals the current
variance zone setting.
(5) Depress and release theSTEPpush button to
step through the zone numbers, until the zone num-
ber for your geographic location appears in the dis-
play.
(6) Depress and release theRESETpush button
to enter the displayed zone number into the EVIC/
CMTC module memory.
(7) Confirm that the correct directions are now
indicated by the compass.
REMOVAL
OVERHEAD CONSOLE REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console retaining screws,
located in the sunglass storage bin.
(3) Using your fingertips, grasp the sides of the
overhead console and pull straight down evenly to
disengage the two snap clips at the front of the unit.
(4) Lower the overhead console far enough to
access the wire harness connectors.
(5) Disconnect the EVIC, CMTC electronic module
and the reading/courtesy lamps electrical connectors.
(6) Remove the overhead console from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the overhead console in the vehicle.
(2) Connect the EVIC, CMTC electronic module
and the reading/courtesy lamps electrical connectors.
(3) Grasp the sides of the overhead console and
push straight up evenly to engage the two snap clips
at the rear of the unit.
(4) Install the overhead console retaining screw,
located in the front of console. Torque the screw to
1.2 N´m (10 in. lbs.).
(5) Connect the negative battery cable.
Fig. 3 Roof Demagnetizing Pattern
DRMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 5
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)