1997 Dodge Ram stalls when starting

AEASTWOOD

MEMBER
1997 DODGE TRUCK
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
201,000 MILES

I have a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Truck. If the engine has not been started for more than 4 or 5 hours it stalls while trying to start, unless I keep my foot on the gas pedal. After I keep my foot on the gas for at least 3 or 4 minutes, I can let off and it will stay running. It will start again just fine as long as it is within just a few hours of shutting off.

Common sense tells me that it is the Idle Air Control Valve but I'm no mechanic, so I don't know. Please HELP!

Thank You,
Alex
p.s. The Check Engine light is off.

4 Replies

DOCFIXIT

MECHANIC
18,828 POSTS

Hi
Maybe ECT coolant sensor tells PCM engine cold to adj. timing and increase inj. pulses ie. like a choke. If IAC would have idle problem most the time . Simple test when engine cold measure resistence across sensor terminals should be 35K or higher as it warms resistence drops.

Hope this helps
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Thursday, December 31st, 2009 AT 2:54 PM

AEASTWOOD

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I replaced the Engine Coolant Sensor as you suggested (only cost $12.99) and am still having the same problem with no improvement. I disconnected the battery during the entire installation. Is it possible that the computer still isn't reset? Do you have anymore suggestions? I imagine that it has to be a really simple fix but I am getting frustrated with it.

Your help is much appreciated.

Alex

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Sunday, January 3rd, 2010 AT 12:52 PM

DOCFIXIT

MECHANIC
18,828 POSTS

Try running some SeaFoam through engine to decarbon. May have carbon built up on back of valves which acts like a sponge soaking up fuel and starving cylinder. Once hot carbon on valve just vaporizes fuel not causing idle problem. And couldn't hurt

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Sunday, January 3rd, 2010 AT 1:35 PM

AEASTWOOD

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I decided to try and reset the computer again. This time I drained the computer of any reserve power by pressing the horn button.
I just want to say that replacing the Engine Coolant Sensor was the correct diagnosis. For the first time in months, I didn't have any starting problems all day. My truck started like a brand new one.
I really appreciate your knowledge and help. What you are doing for people is awesome. It makes me thankful to be living in the age of the internet.
I'm going to also take your advice and run the SeaFoam through my engine. It absolutely can't hurt.
Thank You very much for all your help! I'm forever grateful.

Alex

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Sunday, January 3rd, 2010 AT 4:11 PM