Engine failing to run

2001 DODGE RAM
190,000 MILES • 5.9L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DEJONG.MUSTARD
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I just rebuilt my transmission and I went to start up my truck and it started up perfectly after a little messing around with the starter. While it was running there was a weird sound and I found out it was the brake power booster vacuum line that was hissing because it was unhooked. I then put it back in and the engine quit. When the vacuum line is in I can still start my truck but has a very low idle and if I give it gas it stalls. But if the hose is unhooked (which I know is incorrect) then engine runs perfectly normal besides the hissing of the vacuum hose.
Oct 9, 2020 at 6:00 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
Most likely you had the battery disconnected to remove the transmission. As a result, the Engine Computer lost its memory. All the fuel trim data and sensor values will be relearned without you even noticing, except for "minimum throttle". That requires a specific set of conditions to be met for that relearn to take place. Until then, idle speed will be too low, the engine may not start unless you hold the accelerator pedal down 1/4", and it will tend to stall at stop signs.

To meet the conditions needed for the relearn to take place, drive at highway speed with the engine warmed up, then coast for at least seven seconds without touching the pedals.
Oct 9, 2020 at 7:57 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
DEJONG.MUSTARD
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Yes, the battery was disconnected. But I am not able to press the gas at all without the engine shutting off. Here is a video of what happens when I start my truck and press the gas:
Oct 10, 2020 at 12:27 PM
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
I hear the engine revving up. It sounds like it stalled when you released the accelerator pedal. What happens if you hold the pedal down 1/4" steady?
Oct 10, 2020 at 6:05 PM
Avatar
DEJONG.MUSTARD
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
If I hold it down steady it runs and revs up and when I release it’s really close to shutting off but keeps running. As soon as I put it in reverse and press the gas then it shuts off.
Oct 11, 2020 at 1:46 PM
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
Go out and drive it. Use two feet if necessary. At the dealership we either took customers' cars for a short test drive to relearn minimum throttle, or we explained the need to do so.
Oct 11, 2020 at 5:15 PM