check engine light DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY 2001 Owner's Manual

DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS
Power is reduced using pulse-width modulation to
the high beams, where by the power is switched on
and off rapidly instead of remaining on continuously.
The duration and interval of the power pulses is pro-
grammed into the Front Control Module (FCM).
HEADLAMP SYSTEM
The headlamp system will default to headlamps
ON position when ignition switch is ON and when an
open or short circuit failure occurs on the headlamp
switch input. The system will return to normal oper-
ation when the open or short is repaired. A fault will
be reported by the BCM when a failure occurs on the
dimmer or headlamp switch input.
If the exterior lamps are ON and the headlamp
switch is in any position other than OFF or AUTO
and with the ignition switch OFF (LOCK) after 3
minutes the BCM sends a message via J1850 to the
FCM informing the FCM to turn off the headlamps,
park lamps and fog lamps. This feature prevents the
vehicle battery from being discharged when the vehi-
cle lights have been left ON.
HEADLAMP TIME DELAY SYSTEM
The headlamp time delay system is activated by
turning the headlamps ON (high or low beam) while
the engine is running, turning the ignition switch
OFF, and then turning the headlamp switch OFF
within 45 seconds. The system will not activate if
more than 45 seconds elapse between ignition switch
OFF and headlamp switch OFF. The BCM will allow
the headlamps to remain ON for 90 seconds (config-
urable) before they automatically turn off (If the key
is in the ignition during the headlamp time delay
mode, then both the headlamps and park lamps
(including panel dimming) will be ON). Refer to the
Owner's Manual for more information.
If the headlamp switch is in the Auto Headlamp
Position, the headlamps are ON due to the night sig-
nal from the CMTC and the ignition switch is in any
position other than run/start, the BCM shall enter a
90 second (configurable) Auto Headlamps time delay
mode. If the key is in the ignition during the head-
lamp time delay mode, then both the headlamps and
park lamps (including panel dimming) will be ON. If
the key is not in the ignition, then only the head-
lamps will be ON. The BCM will allow the head-
lamps to remain ON for 90 seconds before they
automatically turn OFF. Refer to the Owner's Man-
ual for more information.
LAMP OUTAGE
If one or more of the following lamps (Low and/or
High beams) are out, then a ªlamps outº indicator
located in the cluster will illuminate.
OPTICAL HORN/HIGH BEAMS
When the multifunction switch is pulled to the first
detent (optical horn) signal, the headlamps are ON,
key-in the ignition the BCM shall send a message via
J1850 to the FCM to turn on the headlamps drivers
to illuminate all four filaments (Low and High
beams). When the multifunction switch is pulled to
the second detent (high beam) signal and the head-
lamps are ON, the BCM shall send a message via
J1850 to the FCM to turn on the headlamps drivers.
The High Beams are illuminated and the Low Beams
and Fog Lamps (if ON) are extinguished. If the head-
lamps were in the high beam configuration when
power was removed from the headlamps, the head-
lamps will be configured as low beam the next time
they are activated.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
WARNING: EYE PROTECTION SHOULD BE USED
WHEN SERVICING GLASS COMPONENTS. PER-
SONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
CAUTION: Do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs
with fingers or other possibly oily surface, reduced
bulb life will result. Do not use bulbs other than
those indicated in the Bulb Application table. Dam-
age to lamp and/or Daytime Running Lamp Module
can result. Do not use fuses, circuit breakers or
relays having greater amperage value than indi-
cated on the fuse panel or in the Owners Manual.
When a vehicle experiences problems with the
headlamp system, verify the condition of the battery
connections, fuses, charging system, headlamp bulbs,
wire connectors, relay, high beam switch, dimmer
switch, and headlamp switch. Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
Each vehicle is equipped with various lamp assem-
blies. A good ground is necessary for proper lighting
operation. Grounding is provided by the lamp socket
when it comes in contact with the metal body, or
through a separate ground wire.
When changing lamp bulbs check the socket for
corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean it with a wire
brush.
When it is necessary to remove components to ser-
vice another, it should not be necessary to apply
excessive force or bend a component to remove it.
Before damaging a trim component, verify hidden
fasteners or captured edges are not holding the com-
ponent in place.
RSLAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR8L-3
LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR (Continued)
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the OFF position. Replace the first valid Sentry Key
in the ignition lock cylinder with the second valid
Sentry Key and turn the ignition switch back to the
ON position. The second valid Sentry Key must be
inserted within 15 seconds of removing the first valid
Sentry key.
(4) About ten seconds after the completion of Step
3, the indicator light will start to flash and a single
audible chime tone will sound to indicate that the
system has entered the9Customer Learn9program-
ming mode.
(5) Within sixty seconds of entering the9Customer
Learn9programming mode, turn the ignition switch
to the OFF position, replace the valid Sentry Key
with a blank Sentry Key transponder, and turn the
ignition switch back to the ON position.
(6) About ten seconds after the completion of Step
5, a single audible chime tone will sound and the
indicator light will stop flashing and stay on solid for
three seconds and then turn off to indicate that the
blank Sentry Key has been successfully programmed.
The SKIS will immediately exit the9Customer
Learn9programming mode and the vehicle may be
started using the newly programmed Sentry Key.
These steps must be completed in their entirety for
each additional Sentry Key to be programmed. If any
of the above steps are not completed in the given
sequence, or within the allotted time, the SKIS will
exit the9Customer Learn9programming mode and
the programming will be unsuccessful. The SKIS will
also automatically exit the9Customer Learn9pro-
gramming mode if:
²It sees a non-blank Sentry Key when it should
see a blank.
²If it has already programmed eight (8) valid
Sentry Keys.
²If the ignition switch is turned to the OFF posi-
tion for more than about fifty (50) seconds.
NOTE: If you attempt to start the vehicle while in
ªCustomer Learnº mode (LED flashing), the vehicle
will behave as though an invalid key is being used
(i.e. the engine will stall after two (2) seconds of
running). No faults will be logged.
NOTE: Once a Sentry Key has been programmed to
a particular vehicle, it cannot be used on any other
vehicle.VTSS/SKIS INDICATOR LAMP
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) uses
an indicator light to convey information on the status
of the system to the customer. This light is shared
with the Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS). The
light is located in the Message Center. The indicator
light is controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM)
based upon messages it receives from the Sentry Key
Immobilizer Module (SKIM) on the PCI bus.
OPERATION
The BCM performs a four second bulb check,
regardless of SKIM messages. After the bulb check,
the lamp is controlled according to SKIM messages.
Then, the SKIM sends messages to the BCM to oper-
ate the light based upon the results of the SKIS self
tests. The light may be actuated in two possible
ways, flashing or on solid. If the light comes on and
stays on solid after a power-up test, this indicates
that the SKIM has detected a system malfunction. If
the SKIM detects an invalid key when the ignition
switch is moved to the ON position, it sends a mes-
sage on the PCI bus to the BCM, to flash the light.
The SKIM can also send a message to flash the light
and generate a single audible chime at the same
time. These two events occurring simultaneously
indicate that the SKIS has been placed into the9Cus-
tomer Learn9mode. Refer to Electrical, Vehicle Theft
Security, Transponder Key, Standard Procedure -
Transponder Programming for more information on
the9Customer Learn9mode. If the light comes on
and stays on after the power-up test, diagnosis of the
SKIS should be performed using a DRB IIItscan tool
and the appropriate Body Diagnostic Procedures
manual. The light is not a serviceable component.
RSVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY8Q-5
TRANSPONDER KEY (Continued)
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The windshield wiper motor and linkage is located
in an integral wiper unit at the rear of the engine
compartment. The wiper unit must be removed to
gain access to the wiper motor.
REAR WIPER/WASHER SYSTEM
When continuous rear wiper operation is required,
the Body Control Module (BCM) will provide ignition
ON voltage to the rear wiper motor. When the wiper
switch is turned OFF, the BCM provides circuit
ground to operate the motor until the wipe cycle is
complete and the wiper arm returns to the base of
the rear window.
When intermittent rear wiper mode is selected, the
wiper motor will cycle every 7 seconds. The intermit-
tent delay time is also adjusted based upon vehicle
speed. With the vehicle traveling greater at 50 mph,
the cycle changes to every 5 seconds. DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FRONT WIPER
SYSTEM
The windshield wiper system operates in several
modes:
²Low and high speed normal wipe
²Speed sensitive intermittent wipe
²Wipe after wash
²Pulse wipe
²Park (switch OFF)
The windshield wiper circuits are continuously
monitored and controlled by the Body Control Mod-
ule (BCM). If a problem occurs in the electronic com-
ponents, wiring, switch (except integral motor park
switch) and wiper motor a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) will be stored in the BCM memory. DTC's can
be retrieved using a DRB IIItscan tool. Refer to the
proper Body Diagnostic Procedures manual for DTC
descriptions and retrieval information.
The windshield wiper park switch and circuit is
monitored by the BCM. The park switch and circuit
can be tested using the Wiper System Diagnosis
table.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REAR WIPER
SYSTEM
The rear window wiper system operates in several
modes:
²Continuous wipe
²Intermittent wipe
²Wash
²Wipe after wash
The windshield wiper circuits are continuously
monitored and controlled by the Body Control Mod-
ule (BCM). If a problem occurs in the electronic com-
ponents, wiring, switch (except integral motor parkswitch) and wiper motor a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) will be stored in the BCM memory. The
DTC(s) can be retrieved using a DRB IIItscan tool.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FRONT
WIPER/WASHER SWITCH
To test the front wiper/washer portion of the multi-
function switch:
(1) Remove the multi-function switch (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/
MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH - REMOVAL).
(2) Using an ohmmeter check continuity reading
between switch pins. See (Fig. 1) and the table.
WIPER/WASHER SWITCH CONTINUITY
SWITCH POSITION RESISTANCE VALUE
BETWEEN
OFF 6 AND 7 = OPEN CIRCUIT
DELAY POSITION
1ST 6AND7=8KV680V
2ND 6AND7=6KV660V
3RD 6 AND 7 = 4.5 KV645V
4TH 6 AND 7 = 3.5 KV635V
5TH 6 AND 7 = 2.5 KV625V
6TH 6 AND 7 = 1.5 KV615V
LOW 6AND7=1KV610V
HIGH 6 AND7=1KV610V
WASH 6 AND 11 = CONTINUITY
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FAILED PARK
SWITCH
If the wiper park switch has failed the windshield
wipers will operate as follows:
²SWITCH OFF- Wipers stop in current location
regardless of the park signal.
²INTERMITTENT MODE- Wipers operate at
low speed for one or more extra wipes or continu-
ously.
Fig. 1 WIPER/WASHER SWITCH PIN CALL OUT
8R - 2 WIPERS/WASHERSRS
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)
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the cylinder in question.The recommended com-
pression pressures are to be used only as a
guide to diagnosing engine problems. An engine
should not be disassembled to determine the
cause of low compression unless some malfunc-
tion is present.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE OIL LEAK
Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the
engine, particularly at the area of the suspected leak.
If an oil leak source is not readily identifiable, the
following steps should be followed:
(1) Do not clean or degrease the engine at this
time because some solvents may cause rubber to
swell, temporarily stopping the leak.
(2) Add an oil soluble dye (use as recommended by
manufacturer). Start the engine and let idle for
approximately 15 minutes. Check the oil dipstick to
make sure the dye is thoroughly mixed as indicated
with a bright yellow color under a black light.
(3) Using a black light, inspect the entire engine
for fluorescent dye, particularly at the suspected area
of oil leak. If the oil leak is found and identified,
repair as necessary.
(4) If dye is not observed, drive the vehicle at var-
ious speeds for approximately 24 km (15 miles), and
repeat inspection.
(5)If the oil leak source is not positively
identified at this time, proceed with the air leak
detection test method as follows:
²Disconnect the fresh air hose (make-up air) at
the cylinder head cover and plug or cap the nipple on
the cover.
²Remove the PCV valve hose from the cylinder
head cover. Cap or plug the PCV valve nipple on the
cover.
²Attach an air hose with pressure gauge and reg-
ulator to the dipstick tube.
CAUTION: Do not subject the engine assembly to
more than 20.6 kpa (3 PSI) of test pressure.
²Gradually apply air pressure from 1 psi to 2.5
psi maximum while applying soapy water at the sus-
pected source. Adjust the regulator to the suitable
test pressure that provides the best bubbles which
will pinpoint the leak source. If the oil leak is
detected and identified, repair per service manual
procedures.
²If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil
seal area, refer to the section, Inspection for Rear
Seal Area Leak.
(6) If no leaks are detected, turn off the air supply.
Remove the air hose, all plugs, and caps. Install the
PCV valve and fresh air hose (make-up air). Proceed
to next step.(7) Clean the oil off the suspect oil leak area using
a suitable solvent. Drive the vehicle at various
speeds approximately 24 km (15 miles). Inspect the
engine for signs of an oil leak by using a black light.
NOTE: If oil leakage is observed at the dipstick tube
to block location; remove the tube, clean and reseal
using MoparTStud & Bearing Mount (press fit tube
applications only), and for O-ring style tubes,
remove tube and replace the O-ring seal.
INSPECTION FOR REAR SEAL AREA LEAKS
Since it is sometimes difficult to determine the
source of an oil leak in the rear seal area of the
engine, a more involved inspection is necessary. The
following steps should be followed to help pinpoint
the source of the leak.
If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal
area:
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Raise the vehicle.
(3) Remove torque converter or clutch housing
cover and inspect rear of block for evidence of oil.
Use a black light to check for the oil leak. If a leak is
present in this area, remove transmission for further
inspection.
(a) Circular spray pattern generally indicates
seal leakage or crankshaft damage.
(b) Where leakage tends to run straight down,
possible causes are a porous block, oil gallery cup
plug, bedplate to cylinder block mating surfaces
and seal bore. See proper repair procedures for
these items.
(4) If no leaks are detected, pressurize the crank-
case as previously described.
CAUTION: Do not exceed 20.6 kPa (3 psi).
(5) If the leak is not detected, very slowly turn the
crankshaft and watch for leakage. If a leak is
detected between the crankshaft and seal while
slowly turning the crankshaft, it is possible the
crankshaft seal surface is damaged. The seal area on
the crankshaft could have minor nicks or scratches
that can be polished out with emery cloth.
CAUTION: Use extreme caution when crankshaft
polishing is necessary to remove minor nicks and
scratches. The crankshaft seal flange is especially
machined to complement the function of the rear oil
seal.
(6) For bubbles that remain steady with shaft
rotation, no further inspection can be done until dis-
assembled.
9 - 4 ENGINE 2.4LRS
ENGINE 2.4L (Continued)
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(7) After the oil leak root cause and appropriate
corrective action have been identified, replace compo-
nent(s) as necessary.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE
Engine diagnosis is helpful in determining the
causes of malfunctions not detected and remedied by
routine maintenance.
These malfunctions may be classified as either
mechanical (e.g., a strange noise), or performance
(e.g., engine idles rough and stalls).
Refer to the Engine Mechanical and the Engine
Performance diagnostic charts, for possible causes
and corrections of malfunctions (Refer to 9 - ENGINE
- DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - MECHANICAL)
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
- PERFORMANCE).For fuel system diagnosis, (Refer to 14 - FUEL
SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING).
Additional tests and diagnostic procedures may be
necessary for specific engine malfunctions that can-
not be isolated with the Service Diagnosis charts.
Information concerning additional tests and diagno-
sis is provided within the following:
²Cylinder Compression Pressure Test
²Cylinder Combustion Pressure Leakage Test
²Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Failure Diagnosis
²Intake Manifold Leakage Diagnosis
²Lash Adjuster (Tappet) Noise Diagnosis
²Engine Oil Leak Inspection
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE PERFORMANCE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
ENGINE WILL NOT START 1. Weak battery. 1. Test battery. Charge or replace
as necessary. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
2. Corroded or loose battery
connections.2. Clean and tighten battery
connections. Apply a coat of light
mineral grease to terminals.
3. Faulty starter. 3. Test starting system. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/STARTING -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
4. Faulty coil(s) or control unit. 4. Test and replace as needed.
(Refer to Appropriate Diagnostic
Information)
5. Incorrect spark plug gap. 5. Set gap. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/IGNITION CONTROL
- SPECIFICATIONS)
6. Contamination in fuel system. 6. Clean system and replace fuel
filter.
7. Faulty fuel pump. 7. Test fuel pump and replace as
needed. (Refer to Appropriate
Diagnostic Information)
8. Incorrect engine timing. 8. Check for a skipped timing
belt/chain.
RSENGINE 2.4L9-5
ENGINE 2.4L (Continued)
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CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
OIL CONSUMPTION OR SPARK
PLUGS FOULED1. PCV system malfunction. 1. Check system and repair as
necessary. (Refer to 25 -
EMISSIONS CONTROL/
EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS/PCV
VALVE - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING)
2. Worn, scuffed or broken rings. 2. Hone cylinder bores. Install new
rings.
3. Carbon in oil ring slots. 3. Install new rings.
4. Rings fitted too tightly in grooves. 4. Remove rings and check
grooves. If groove is not proper
width, replace piston.
5. Worn valve guide(s). 5. Replace cylinder head assembly.
6. Valve stem seal(s) worn or
damaged.6. Replace seal(s).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - ENGINE CORE AND
OIL GALLERY PLUGS
Using a blunt tool such as a drift and a hammer,
strike the bottom edge of the cup plug. With the cup
plug rotated, grasp firmly with pliers or other suit-
able tool and remove plug (Fig. 2).
CAUTION: Do not drive cup plug into the casting as
restricted cooling can result and cause serious
engine problems.
Thoroughly clean inside of cup plug hole in cylin-
der block or head. Be sure to remove old sealer.Lightly coat inside of cup plug hole with Mopart
Stud and Bearing Mount. Make certain the new plug
is cleaned of all oil or grease. Using proper drive
plug, drive plug into hole so that the sharp edge of
the plug is at least 0.5 mm (0.020 in.) inside the
lead-in chamfer.
It is not necessary to wait for curing of the sealant.
The cooling system can be refilled and the vehicle
placed in service immediately.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REPAIR OF
DAMAGED OR WORN THREADS
Damaged or worn threads (excluding spark plug
and camshaft bearing cap attaching threads) can be
repaired. Essentially, this repair consists of drilling
out worn or damaged threads, tapping the hole with
a special Heli-Coil Tap, (or equivalent) and installing
an insert into the tapped hole. This brings the hole
back to its original thread size.
CAUTION: Be sure that the tapped holes maintain
the original center line.
Heli-Coil tools and inserts are readily available
from automotive parts jobbers.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - HYDROSTATIC
LOCKED ENGINE
When an engine is suspected to be hydrostatically
locked, regardless of what caused the problem, the
following steps should be used.
CAUTION: DO NOT use starter motor to rotate the
engine, severe damage may occur.
Fig. 2 CORE HOLE PLUG REMOVAL
1 - CYLINDER BLOCK
2 - REMOVE PLUG WITH PLIERS
3 - STRIKE HERE WITH HAMMER
4 - DRIFT PUNCH
5 - CUP PLUG
RSENGINE 2.4L9-9
ENGINE 2.4L (Continued)
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should be measured halfway down the cylinder bore
and transverse to the engine crankshaft center line
shown in (Fig. 42). Refer to for Engine Specifications
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS). Correct
piston to bore clearance must be established in order
to assure quiet and economical operation.
NOTE: Pistons and cylinder bores should be mea-
sured at normal room temperature, 21ÉC (70ÉF).
STANDARD PROCEDURES - CYLINDER BORE
HONING
(1) Used carefully, the cylinder bore resizing hone,
recommended tool C-823 or equivalent, equipped
with 220 grit stones, is the best tool for this honing
procedure. In addition to deglazing, it will reducetaper and out-of-round as well as removing light
scuffing, scoring or scratches. Usually a few strokes
will clean up a bore and maintain the required lim-
its.
(2) Deglazing of the cylinder walls may be done
using a cylinder surfacing hone, recommended tool
C-3501 or equivalent, equipped with 280 grit stones,
if the cylinder bore is straight and round. 20±60
strokes depending on the bore condition, will be suf-
ficient to provide a satisfactory surface. Use a light
honing oil.Do not use engine or transmission oil,
mineral spirits or kerosene.Inspect cylinder walls
after each 20 strokes.
(3) Honing should be done by moving the hone up
and down fast enough to get a cross-hatch pattern.
When hone marksintersectat 40-60 degrees, the
cross hatch angle is most satisfactory for proper seat-
ing of rings (Fig. 44).
Fig. 41 Cylinder Block and Bedplate
1 - CYLINDER BLOCK
2 - BEDPLATE
Fig. 42 Checking Cylinder Bore
Fig. 43 Piston Measurement
Fig. 44 Cylinder Bore Cross-Hatch Pattern
1 - CROSS-HATCH PATTERN
2 - 40ɱ60É
9 - 34 ENGINE 2.4LRS
ENGINE BLOCK (Continued)
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DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE
Engine diagnosis is helpful in determining the
causes of malfunctions not detected and remedied by
routine maintenance.
These malfunctions may be classified as either
mechanical (e.g., a strange noise), or performance
(e.g., engine idles rough and stalls).
Refer to the Engine Mechanical and the Engine
Performance diagnostic charts, for possible causes
and corrections of malfunctions (Refer to 9 - ENGINE
- DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - MECHANICAL)
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
- PERFORMANCE).
For fuel system diagnosis, (Refer to 14 - FUEL
SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING).
Additional tests and diagnostic procedures may be
necessary for specific engine malfunctions that can-
not be isolated with the Service Diagnosis charts.
Information concerning additional tests and diagno-
sis is provided within the following:
²Cylinder Compression Pressure Test
²Cylinder Combustion Pressure Leakage Test
²Engine Cylinder Head Gasket Failure Diagnosis
²Intake Manifold Leakage Diagnosis
²Lash Adjuster (Tappet) Noise Diagnosis
²Engine Oil Leak Inspection
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE PERFORMANCE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
ENGINE WILL
NOT START1. Weak battery. 1. Test battery. Charge or replace as
necessary. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
BATTERY SYSTEM - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING)
2. Corroded or loose battery connections. 2. Clean and tighten battery connections.
Apply a coat of light mineral grease to
terminals.
3. Faulty starter. 3. Test starting system. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/STARTING - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING)
4. Faulty coil(s) or control unit. 4. Test and replace as needed. (Refer to
Appropriate Diagnostic Information)
5. Incorrect spark plug gap. 5. Set gap. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
IGNITION CONTROL - SPECIFICATIONS)
6. Contamination in fuel system. 6. Clean system and replace fuel filter.
7. Faulty fuel pump. 7. Test fuel pump and replace as needed.
(Refer to Appropriate Diagnostic Information)
8. Incorrect engine timing. 8. Check for a skipped timing belt/chain.
Fig. 2 Engine Identification
9 - 74 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
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CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
OIL PRESSURE
DROP1. Low oil level. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Faulty oil pressure sending unit. 2. Install new sending unit.
3. Low oil pressure. 3. Check sending unit and main bearing oil
clearance.
4. Clogged oil filter. 4. Install new oil filter.
5. Worn parts in oil pump. 5. Replace worn parts or pump.
6. Thin or diluted oil. 6. Change oil to correct viscosity.
7. Oil pump relief valve stuck. 7. Remove valve and inspect, clean, or
replace.
8. Oil pump suction tube loose. 8. Remove oil pan and install new tube or
clean, if necessary.
9. Oil pump cover warped or cracked. 9. Install new oil pump.
10. Excessive bearing clearance. 10. Measure bearings for correct clearance.
OIL LEAKS 1. Misaligned or deteriorated gaskets. 1. Replace gasket(s).
2. Loose fastener, broken or porous metal
part.2. Tighten, repair or replace the part.
3. Misaligned or deteriorated cup or
threaded plug.3. Replace as necessary.
OIL
CONSUMPTION
OR SPARK
PLUGS FOULED1. PCV system malfunction. 1. Check system and repair as necessary.
(Refer to 25 - EMISSIONS CONTROL/
EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS/PCV VALVE -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
2. Worn, scuffed or broken rings. 2. Hone cylinder bores. Install new rings.
3. Carbon in oil ring slots. 3. Install new rings.
4. Rings fitted too tightly in grooves. 4. Remove rings and check grooves. If
groove is not proper width, replace piston.
5. Worn valve guide(s). 5. Replace cylinder head assembly.
6. Valve stem seal(s) worn or damaged. 6. Replace seal(s).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE OIL LEAK
Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the
engine, particularly at the area of the suspected leak.
If an oil leak source is not readily identifiable, the
following steps should be followed:
(1) Do not clean or degrease the engine at this
time because some solvents may cause rubber to
swell, temporarily stopping the leak.
(2) Add an oil soluble dye (use as recommended by
manufacturer). Start the engine and let idle for
approximately 15 minutes. Check the oil dipstick to
make sure the dye is thoroughly mixed as indicated
with a bright yellow color under a black light.
(3) Using a black light, inspect the entire engine
for fluorescent dye, particularly at the suspected area
of oil leak. If the oil leak is found and identified,
repair as necessary.(4) If dye is not observed, drive the vehicle at var-
ious speeds for approximately 24 km (15 miles), and
repeat inspection.
(5)If the oil leak source is not positively
identified at this time, proceed with the air leak
detection test method as follows:
²Disconnect the fresh air hose (make-up air) at
the cylinder head cover and plug or cap the nipple on
the cover.
²Remove the PCV valve hose from the cylinder
head cover. Cap or plug the PCV valve nipple on the
cover.
²Attach an air hose with pressure gauge and reg-
ulator to the dipstick tube.
CAUTION: Do not subject the engine assembly to
more than 20.6 kpa (3 PSI) of test pressure.
RSENGINE 3.3/3.8L9-77
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
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²Gradually apply air pressure from 1 psi to 2.5
psi maximum while applying soapy water at the sus-
pected source. Adjust the regulator to the suitable
test pressure that provides the best bubbles which
will pinpoint the leak source. If the oil leak is
detected and identified, repair per service manual
procedures.
²If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil
seal area, refer to the section, Inspection for Rear
Seal Area Leak.
(6) If no leaks are detected, turn off the air supply.
Remove the air hose, all plugs, and caps. Install the
PCV valve and fresh air hose (make-up air). Proceed
to next step.
(7) Clean the oil off the suspect oil leak area using
a suitable solvent. Drive the vehicle at various
speeds approximately 24 km (15 miles). Inspect the
engine for signs of an oil leak by using a black light.
NOTE: If oil leakage is observed at the dipstick tube
to block location; remove the tube, clean and reseal
using MoparTStud & Bearing Mount (press fit tube
applications only), and for O-ring style tubes,
remove tube and replace the O-ring seal.
INSPECTION FOR REAR SEAL AREA LEAKS
Since it is sometimes difficult to determine the
source of an oil leak in the rear seal area of the
engine, a more involved inspection is necessary. The
following steps should be followed to help pinpoint
the source of the leak.
If the leakage occurs at the crankshaft rear oil seal
area:
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Raise the vehicle.
(3) Remove torque converter or clutch housing
cover and inspect rear of block for evidence of oil.
Use a black light to check for the oil leak. If a leak is
present in this area, remove transmission for further
inspection.
(a) Circular spray pattern generally indicates
seal leakage or crankshaft damage.
(b) Where leakage tends to run straight down,
possible causes are a porous block, oil gallery cup
plug, bedplate to cylinder block mating surfaces
and seal bore. See proper repair procedures for
these items.
(4) If no leaks are detected, pressurize the crank-
case as previously described.
CAUTION: Do not exceed 20.6 kPa (3 psi).
(5) If the leak is not detected, very slowly turn the
crankshaft and watch for leakage. If a leak is
detected between the crankshaft and seal while
slowly turning the crankshaft, it is possible thecrankshaft seal surface is damaged. The seal area on
the crankshaft could have minor nicks or scratches
that can be polished out with emery cloth.
CAUTION: Use extreme caution when crankshaft
polishing is necessary to remove minor nicks and
scratches. The crankshaft seal flange is especially
machined to complement the function of the rear oil
seal.
(6) For bubbles that remain steady with shaft
rotation, no further inspection can be done until dis-
assembled.
(7) After the oil leak root cause and appropriate
corrective action have been identified, replace compo-
nent(s) as necessary.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CYLINDER
COMPRESSION PRESSURE
The results of a cylinder compression pressure test
can be utilized to diagnose several engine malfunc-
tions.
Ensure the battery is completely charged and the
engine starter motor is in good operating condition.
Otherwise the indicated compression pressures may
not be valid for diagnosis purposes.
(1) Check engine oil level and add oil if necessary.
(2) Drive the vehicle until engine reaches normal
operating temperature. Select a route free from traf-
fic and other forms of congestion, observe all traffic
laws, and accelerate through the gears several times
briskly.
(3) Remove all spark plugs from engine. As spark
plugs are being removed, check electrodes for abnor-
mal firing indicators fouled, hot, oily, etc. Record cyl-
inder number of spark plug for future reference.
(4) Disconnect the ignition coil electrical connector.
(5) Be sure throttle blade is fully open during the
compression check.
(6) Insert compression gage adaptor Special Tool
8116 or the equivalent, into the #1 spark plug hole in
cylinder head. Connect the 0±500 psi (Blue) pressure
transducer with cable adaptors to the DRBIIIt.
(7) Crank engine until maximum pressure is
reached on gage. Record this pressure as #1 cylinder
pressure.
(8) Repeat the previous step for all remaining cyl-
inders.
(9) Compression should not be less than 689 kPa
(100 psi) and not vary more than 25 percent from cyl-
inder to cylinder.
(10) If one or more cylinders have abnormally low
compression pressures, repeat the compression test.
(11) If the same cylinder or cylinders repeat an
abnormally low reading on the second compression
test, it could indicate the existence of a problem in
9 - 78 ENGINE 3.3/3.8LRS
ENGINE 3.3/3.8L (Continued)
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