Cranks no start, no gauges are working?

KE0889

MEMBER
2004 DODGE RAM
5.9L
TURBO
4WD
AUTOMATIC
225,000 MILES

The truck listed above is a 2500 5.9 Cummins. Cranks won't start. No gauges working. We replaced the fuel pump fuse and relay, then the fuel pump itself. Then replaced the pressure relief valve. Then replaced the ignition switch. Checked all the wiring and grounds and fuses we can think of. Then replaced the ECM yesterday and still cranks, won't start, no gauges. Running out of ideas and money, I really need to get this going. The last idea is maybe the TIPM? Please help.

1 Reply

MATHGEN

MECHANIC
128 POSTS

Hello. Among other things, the instrument cluster contains the anti-theft system. If the cluster has no power or is damaged, it will cause a problem. There is a self-test procedure you can try on the cluster. I have copied it below.

The Instrument Cluster is capable of performing a Diagnostic Self-Test. This self-test can be initiated manually by depressing and holding the trip reset button while cycling the ignition from the Off to the on position. The self-test can also be activated using the DRB III. During the self-test, all of the PCI bus indicators will be illuminated. The speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and voltage gauge will position at their calibration points. The VF display will illuminate all segments and also display the software version. The chime will sound. When the self-test is complete, the cluster will return to normal operation. Turning the ignition to the Off position or the cluster detecting engine RPM greater than 0 (zero) will stop the self-test.

If the test will not run, then we need to check the power and ground circuits to the instrument cluster. Starting with all related fuses. I have uploaded diagrams that should help. Please let us know if you need any more help.

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