1998 Dodge Ram Diesel Wait to Start Light Delay

RONJANCOL

MEMBER
1998 DODGE RAM
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
164,000 MILES

My Cummins Diesel wait to start light used to come on when the ignition was initially turned on. Now (after new ECM) the wait to start light comes on some 12 to 15 seconds after turning the key on. Dealer says it's an "electronic" problem. Do you have a solution? Do you know the logic steps - I am assuming the ECM was programmed correctly (maybe not) for the wait to start light so I can trouble shoot what info the wait to start light logic is not satisfied?

Thanks,
Ron

3 Replies

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

Without the proper scanning equipment, there isnt much you will be able to do. The ign switch tells the PCM to turn on, it then tells the glow plug controller/relay to turn on which lights the light. If it didnt do this before, I would take it right back. When they programmed the PCM they may not have gotten all the updates or other info that caused this issue.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Thursday, June 3rd, 2010 AT 3:13 PM

RONJANCOL

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I have considered taking the truck back for reprogramming - guess that is the best solution althought they may reluctantly do that since they have claimed I have an electronic problem now. You mentioned scanning equipment. Can you tell me what specifically that equipment is? Will my 1998.5 Dodge have the proper connections for that type of plug receptical? One option I have considered, but did not know where to start was go to someone with the proper instruments.
Thanks,
Ron

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, June 4th, 2010 AT 2:59 PM

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

You would need bi-directional scanner with an OBD-2 connector (under dash drivers side). If you do go to a shop other than the dealer, make sure they are very familiar with your Cummins engine.A deisel specialty shop would be ideal.I would have the dealer explain how this problem arose after they replaced the PCM when it wasnt there before

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Friday, June 4th, 2010 AT 4:52 PM