Engine cranks but does not start

Tiny
JOHNNYBEEZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 DODGE RAM
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 155,000 MILES
My truck listed above is a 1500. It will crank but not start. First, I replaced the fuel pump, that wasn't it, second, I replaced crank sensor, which wasn't it, third I replaced the air flow sensor, not that either, fourth checked all fuses, all good. I have no idea what can be next besides the cam sensor or the fuel rail. Can someone please help? Thank you in advance.
Wednesday, March 30th, 2022 AT 8:45 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,872 POSTS
Hi,

I would be happy to help.

First, we need to narrow down the circuit causing the issue. It certainly could be the fuel pump or crank sensor, but before we jump into either of them, let's check something.

First, see if the engine will start for a couple of seconds using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it's a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, suspect ignition problems.

In that case, I need you to check for spark to the plugs. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Next, do me a favor. Remove the ASD relay (automatic shutdown) and switch it with a different relay having the same part number in the under-hood fuse box. I attached a pic below showing the relay's location. Additionally, confirm there isn't a corrosion issue where it plugs in and the connectors are in good condition.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Thursday, March 31st, 2022 AT 7:15 PM
Tiny
JOHNNYBEEZ
  • MEMBER
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Yes, hi. Thank you for the reply. I currently changed all the plugs and pulled out my fuel injectors. I cleaned them but have not put them back in yet. Before I removed those, I had my starter checked, it was good, changed my fuel pump and added half a tank of fuel, I also changed out my crank sensor, cam sensor, oil pressure sensor, and air flow sensor. I replaced the relay and the battery. When I did all that, it still wouldn't stay, just the same old crank no start issue. I'm not electronically inclined as much but I have checked a few wires and I know I'm missing something, but I don't know what yet.
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Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 AT 2:42 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,872 POSTS
Hi,

Do me a favor. Once you get the injectors reinstalled, let me know the results. Also, let me know anything you can think of that you feel may be helpful for diagnosing the issue.

If possible, try the tests I mentioned above. We need to determine if it is an ignition issue or a fuel-related issue.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 AT 5:42 PM
Tiny
JOHNNYBEEZ
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Hey Joe,
I put everything back together today and still crank no start.
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Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 AT 6:04 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,872 POSTS
Hi,

I need you to perform the tests I mentioned above and let me know if you have both spark and fuel. One is likely missing. I need to know which one.

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
JOHNNYBEEZ
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Hi,
Thank you for your time. I am getting spark but no fuel.
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Tuesday, April 26th, 2022 AT 11:12 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,872 POSTS
Okay,

When you say no fuel, do you mean the fuel pump isn't operating to produce fuel pressure at the fuel rail, or do you mean there is no fuel injector pulse to inject fuel into the engine? Does it start for a couple of seconds with starting fluid?

I need to know where the fuel is lost. For example, either there is no fuel pressure to the fuel rail, or there is proper fuel pressure, but it doesn't make it into the engine.

Next, if you do have pressure at the fuel rail based on a pressure test, then I want you to locate the brown wire with a white tracer at each injector. That wire should have 12v with the key on. I suspect that will have power because you have spark, and the power supply is direct from the ASD to the injectors and coils.

If you haven't confirmed if there is fuel pressure at the fuel rail, here is a link that explains how it is done. You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

If there is fuel pressure but no power to the injectors but you are certain the coils are working to provide spark, then we need to check the splices in the wiring.

I have a pic of the injectors below. Here is how they work. With the key on, the ASD sends 12v to each one via the brown/white wire. To complete the circuit, the PCM provides a ground path at a specific time and for a specific amount of time to inject fuel into the engine. So, if you have power, we need to check for a pulse signal which is explained in the link below. If there is no power, try to locate the splices indicated in the pic below.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, April 26th, 2022 AT 5:57 PM

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