1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Rough Running

DHARVEYAK

MEMBER
1 POST

I have a Dodge Ram 1500, 5.2 1997. It sporadicaly coughs and sputters. My check engine light comes on and then will go out after it sits over night, (sometimes). I had it checked and the guy said it was maybe my O2 sensor. It feels like a fuel problem to me. where is my fuel filter located? Not in the tank I hope.

Sep 8, 2006 at 10:13 AM

SYNCRAIT

✓Experienced Mechanic
235 POSTS

if the guy thinks it is the O2 sensor then it probably is..... if you sensor malfunctions spurattically it will create a real rough idle by running a rich mix to the cylinders making it run like crap......when the engine light comes on it sends a malfunction code and if the guy was able to pull it and says O2 then it just needs replacing.....i would start with that the fuel filter is usually located underneath mounted to the frame or under the hood against the firewall on the drivers side...

Sep 18, 2006 at 6:03 AM

CNCTONY

MEMBER
5 POSTS

I have had this same problem. You need to find out what the error codes are and the pending codes are. Also HOW MANY MILES ARE ON IT... This is a very important question. Also your service history. This sounds like fouled plugs caused by need of a valve job. Sounds like a big job, and it is, but with the right info, tools and time you can have this Truck running like new. I would first try Seafoam in the gas. Seafoam is a cleaner you can pick up at auto parts store. Works much better than STP fuel cleaner. The way you can tell is simply removing the spark plugs and inspect. If your O2 sensor is bad your check engine light should come on and stay on. O2 sensors don't go bad and then start working correctly normally. Check a few things and write back.

Sep 19, 2006 at 10:05 AM

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Suggested Repair

Retrieve the stored trouble code and start by replacing the oxygen sensor if it indicates an O2 fault, since an intermittent sensor can cause a rich mixture and rough running. The fuel filter is typically mounted under the vehicle on the frame or under the hood against the firewall on the driver's side, not in the tank.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 5.2 reports intermittent coughing and sputtering, with a check engine light that sometimes goes out after the truck sits overnight. A shop suggested a possible oxygen sensor. An expert agreed to start with the O2 sensor and said the fuel filter is usually frame-mounted underneath or under the hood at the driver's firewall. Another owner suggested reading codes and mileage, inspecting the plugs, and trying Seafoam, while also raising fouled plugs or a valve job as possibilities.

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1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Rough Running

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