I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 with a gas 5

Tiny
NICK PETERS
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 DODGE RAM
  • 100,000 MILES
I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 with a gas 5.7L. Every few months it just won't start. No rhyme or reason, just out of the blue. The starter will turn over the motor, the fuel pump is charged with fuel, it tries to fire but doesn't. I can smell the unburned fuel from the exhaust after trying. I'm leaning toward a computer problem. Help.
Monday, February 4th, 2013 AT 7:40 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Check to spark to the plugs when this happens. Is it a blue snapping spark or orange or white? Also, is the fuel pressure within the manufacturer's specs?
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Monday, February 4th, 2013 AT 9:16 PM
Tiny
NICK PETERS
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I haven't checked yet. What does the color of the spark mean?
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Tuesday, February 5th, 2013 AT 11:15 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
You want to see a hot blue spark. If it is orange or white it is very weak and many times won't burn the fuel. As a result, the engine won't run.
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Wednesday, February 6th, 2013 AT 1:41 AM
Tiny
NICK PETERS
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That makes sense. I'm hoping to be able to work on it tonight.
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Wednesday, February 6th, 2013 AT 12:46 PM

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