Running problem

TYLER

MEMBER
1981 DODGE RAM
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
62,000 MILES

Ok I am pulling my hair out trying to figure this problem out I have a 1981 dodge power ram that seems to run fine when you first start it up but seems like when the truck reaches operating temp and I put it into gear it stalls and will be hard to start while still warmed up it will try but won't stay running for more then two seconds I did put a new fuel pump and rebuilt the carb put a new ( vacuum) choke and nothing seemed to help

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,873 POSTS

When it stalls, pop the air cleaner cover off and work the throttle to see if fuel is squirting in. If it's not, suspect the pickup screen inside the gas tank. It's a round screen that slides onto the pickup tube. I've had two become plugged on two different cars. The last one, about 14 years ago, cost $3.00. The clue is it collapses after about 10 - 15 miles, then stretches out again after a few minutes.

You can also cut a slit in the top of the screen but it's not a good idea to remove it completely because it helps hold some fuel by the pickup tube when the tank is low and you go around a corner. You still have the regular filter ahead of the pump.