How to Diagnose a stating problem on 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 2wd 5.2 litter PU
5

Asked by GauthierRay Apr 10, 2014 at 10:35 AM about the Dodge RAM 1500

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Just bought the PU a month ago. It was running fine. Park it,and when I went to start it
again it wouldn't start. So first, when I turn the ign., all the dash lights come on,when I
crank the ign. further to crank the eng. I hear a click in the drivetrain area and then
major power lose. Interior lights barely on,Turn key back to off position,and then back to
on and no dash lights. I disconnect the battery for 30 seconds or so and then reconnect
and all power will return, interior lights dash lights etc. when I say dash lights I mean all
the bells and whistle lights such as eng.etc as the run through there motions. Then the
same acures over again. Battery is good, fuses are good, switch the starter relay,thats
good.  Also has a alarm,dont know if it factory or not and it appaers as if fuse panel
under the hood has been changed before.Need Help Please, Any Ideas ?????

1 Answer
57,945

Tracy answered 10 years ago

Nothing substitutes for a proper load test on the battery. Most parts stores will do it for free. Secondly, I would disconnect and clean all cable connections: battery, block, body, starter and inspect the cables thoroughly for hidden corrosion. Sounds like you have continuity until you put a load on the electrical system and that amperage draw is too much for a poor connection to maintain - or the battery's garbage.

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