1990 Dodge Van Relay

TONY21752

MEMBER
1990 DODGE VAN
100,000 MILES

This is the short (no pun intended) of a long story. One day, my van (b250 with a 318) wouldn't start. It would turn over nice and healthily, but no start. Towed it home and over the course of a month, I have replaced the ASD, the throttle unlock and the starter relays; replaced a (blown) fusible link with a 40 amp fuse; the ignition switch and the fuel pump. Right now, it will run with the throttle unlock relay removed. If I install the relay, the previously mentioned fuse blows shortly after the ignition is moved to the on position. Should I drive it like this? This is my service vehicle and is direly needed. If I determine to run down the short (assuming that is the problem, where do I start looking? What does the throttle unlock relay actually control?
Thank you for any help/advice you can offer.
Tony

3 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Unfortunately this goes to several different components it goes to the part throttle solenoid, a/c wide open throttle relay to kick off the compressor as well as throttle position sensor ignition switch, most of the wires leading to the relay as well as other components are dark blue wire. So maybe if you can find one rubbing against the frame. Etc and fix that it will solve your problem. But check the wire going to part throttle solenoid first it's dark blue as well.

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Saturday, August 17th, 2013 AT 10:43 AM

TONY21752

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Did you mean this ". As well as throttle position sensor ignition switch." To refer to the throttle position sensor AND the ignition switch or is this a switch unto itself?

In my research, I understand that the torque converter only locks up at higher speeds and without a load. I carry at least a thousand pounds of tools and hardware all the time, and, since it drives as it is, I wonder if there are any detrimental effects for driving with the relay out? Outside of decreased gas mileage?

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Saturday, August 17th, 2013 AT 12:50 PM

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

I meant the throttle position sensor and ignition switch. The relay is a relay. It is fed by the ignition switch andleads to the part throttle solenoid check that wire first it's dark blue as well it has to be rubbing against the frame or the solenoid may be bad. I'm not sure about detrimental effects other than something else may not operate. So try it. The solenoid is ont he trans behind neutral switch on lh side.

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Saturday, August 17th, 2013 AT 1:16 PM