Engine cranks but does not start

HAUSE501

MEMBER
1997 DODGE RAM
5.6L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

Okay, I had a leaking water pump I used pepper to stop the leak did so for quite a while when I had the money I grabbed one and replaced it. So in the process of changing it I wanted to rinse the pepper out of engine as much as possible. I took a water hose and sprayed up in engine block I know that I was careful not to try to get anything wet that shouldn't but I don't know why happened I put it all together and nothing. My question is that I need some advice on what I need to check and how to check it. I then saw a crack in the coil pack so I replaced it. Still nothing. Been down almost 8 months now. I really need my truck by on road still paying insurance on it. Now I have got a car cover on it because cops came by telling me it has to be covered up if not a running vehicle.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,779 POSTS

Hi,

I'm not sure what is actually happening. Does the starter engage and turn the engine, but it doesn't start? Or, does nothing happen when you try to start it?

If the starter engages, we need to determine if there are spark and fuel to the engine. Here are three links to help. The first reviews a crank no start condition. The next two explain how to check fuel pressure and ignition spark.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

________________________________________

If the starter isn't working at all, take a look through this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

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Let me know what exactly is happening. Also, let me know if you have other questions.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe

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Sunday, February 21st, 2021 AT 5:34 PM

HAUSE501

MEMBER
1 POST

It turns over tries to crank, no fire. Fuel pump pumping was running when I decided to replace water pump. Could I have gotten something wet to stop it? I usually fix my own vehicles. I am bad with figuring out what the problem is how to test for with a voltmeter and so forth.

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Monday, February 22nd, 2021 AT 6:54 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,779 POSTS

Hi,

If I understand, the fuel pump is working but there is no spark to the plugs, correct? If you lost spark, the first thing I would check is the crankshaft position sensor. The sensor is near the transmission bell housing on the right side of the engine. See pic 1.

Check to make sure it wasn't disconnected or damaged. If you find it was damaged, here are the directions for replacement:

1997 Dodge or Ram Truck RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z
Procedures
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Crankshaft Position Sensor Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES

pic 1

REMOVAL
The sensor is bolted to the top of the cylinder block near the rear of right cylinder head.

1. Remove the air cleaner intake tube.
2. Disconnect crankshaft position sensor pigtail harness from main wiring harness.
3. Remove two sensor (recessed hex head) mounting bolts.
4. Remove sensor from engine.

INSTALLATION
1. Position crankshaft position sensor to engine.
2. Install mounting bolts and tighten to 8 N.m (70 in. lbs.) torque.
3. Connect main harness electrical connector to sensor.
4. Install air cleaner tube.

Here is a link you may find of interest. It explains the symptoms of a bad crank sensor.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

I hope this helps. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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