Crank, clicks, no fuel pumping?

DXB093

MEMBER
1999 DODGE RAM
5.9L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
176,000 MILES

I have the truck listed above Laramie and the problem started when it randomly started revving up by itself in park. Another strange thing was my plate light was hanging, and I noticed touching the wire made it rev as well. A couple days later it started revving then it cut out but immediately turned back on. The same day I went to pull this car with it and as soon as I pressed the gas it instantly shut off. It cut back on for a couple seconds then after that I couldn’t get it back one. I got it to run a couple days later but it didn’t stay on and when I pressed the gas it shuts right back off. When I pressed the gas, it did not rev, it did not even engage that I was pressing the gas. When I turn the key, I can tell it wants to start it just can’t I hear it clicking but I can’t hear the fuel line. Is this a fuel pump? Oh, and another thing it acted like it had a drained battery, but the battery was fine. It would drain my battery now it hasn’t done it. I’ve changed the relays. Changed the battery. Changed the alternator and fuel pump a could years back.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi,

Based on what you described, this sounds more like an electrical issue. When you say the engine revved when you touched the plate light, was the wire bare and possibly shorted? Also, are the battery terminals, clean, tight, and the cables in good condition? If you haven't already, check them and also make sure the ground wire to the engine block is in good condition.

If you suspect it isn't getting fuel, here is a link that explains how to test fuel pump pressure:

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

You will need a fuel pressure gauge for this, but most parts stores will lend one to you. Additionally, I attached the fuel pressure specifications below for you.

Another way to determine if it is a fuel related issue is to see if it starts using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, then it is likely a fuel problem. If there is no change whatsoever, confirm there is spark at the spark plugs.

Here is a link that shows how to check:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find or if you have questions. Note that the idea it stalled when you touched the throttle does sound somewhat like a fuel pressure issue.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)