Problem Reports
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2001 Dodge Ram 3500 Problems
Rerouting Ignition Coil/Spark Plug Wires Can Solve Misfire/Surge Problems
On the 3.9L V6 and 5.2L V8, rerouting the ignition coil wire and spark plug wires can help solve a misfire and/or surge problem that occurs at approximately 45 mph. A service bulletin was published that outlines the specifics of the repair. It states the rerouting procedure should be performed before other repairs are done for misfires, surging or spark knock.
Coolant Loss & Engine Overheating
Engine overheating can result from coolant leaks which are commonly found at the thermostat housing gasket, water pump, heater return tube O-ring at the water pump, intake manifold gasket, and timing cover gasket. Our technicians recommend a complete inspection of the cooling system after any repairs are made to be sure there are no other leaks.
Engine oil leaks at distributor may be misdiagnosed
On the 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 the engine oil leaks at the distributor can be misdiagnosed as leaks from the intake manifold seal, oil pan gasket, or rear crankshaft (rear main) seal. A revised distributor is available if oil is found inside the distributor.
Engine Will Not Start Due to Blown Door Lock Fuse
If the engine cranks but does not start, or starts and stalls, the fuses should be inspected, especially the power door locks fuse. The power door lock fuse provides power to a module that sends the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) the "OK to start" signal.
Increased Oil Consumption Due to Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
On 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 engines, the intake manifold gasket may leak and cause increased oil consumption and a spark knock during acceleration; the gasket should be replaced.
Engine Will Crank But Not Start Due to Fuel Return Line Leak
If the engine is difficult to start or cranks but does not start, it can be caused by a leak in the return side of the fuel system. This type of leak can allow air to enter the injection pump resulting in starting issues. A rubber hose on the back of the injection pump, connecting the pump to the steel hard line, that can be the source of this type of leak.
Check Engine Light Due to Pinched Leak Detection Pump Vacuum Lines
If a Check Engine Light illuminates indicating leak detection pump (LDP) failure, the cause is often pinched or disconnected vacuum lines to the pump. Vacuum lines should be inspected before replacing the leak detection pump. Contamination (carbon or debris) in the pump can cause failure and any hoses should be cleared before a new pump is installed.
Whistle noise from tie road adjusting sleeve at 30 to 60 mph
For the 4x4 models, a high pitched whistle heard between 30 and 60 miles per hour can be caused if the tie rod adjusting sleeve is oriented in a way that the sleeve slot is facing toward the front of the vehicle. Wrapping tape completely the sleeve will allow you to verify the the sleeve is creating the whistle. Rotating the adjusting sleeve so the slot does not face forward will fix the problem.
Failed door lock cylinder switches
Replace leaf spring tip liners to stop noise when driving over bumps
When driving over bumps a clicking or squeaking from the rear leaf springs may be fixed by replacing the (leaf) spring tip liners and installing a spring clinch clip (kit available from the dealer).
Carbon buildup at top of piston may cause noise
One the 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 the carbon buildup on the top of the piston is common. As the buildup increases with mileage and over time, symptoms may vary from light ticking, to ticking/hammering, to hammering/knocking noises. Fuel injector cleaner often solves the problem.
Oil leaks from valve cover, intake manifold, and timing cover gaskets
On the 3.9L V6, 5.2L V8 and 5.9L V8 the Oil leaks commonly from the valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets (front and rear), timing cover gaskets, distributor O-ring, and the rear main seal area. Using fluorescent engine oil dye can be helpful in determining the source(s) of the oil leak.