1998 Dodge Ram clicking, cranking, not running

BKWDSMAN

MEMBER
1998 DODGE RAM
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
233,000 MILES

Hi. My Ram truck has been clicking and then catching and turning over. Up til now, it would do this occasionally then work fine for awhile. Now when It turns over, it does not run. Is there a fuel switch in the starter solenoid? Do I need to replace the ignition switch or starter? Thanks for your help, John.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,164 POSTS

If the engine is cranking, you need to check if it's getting both fuel and spark to the plugs. Let me know what you find.

As far as the clicking from the starter, it sounds like the solenoid is bad. (Replace the starter)

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Monday, December 8th, 2008 AT 1:22 PM

BKWDSMAN

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks for the reply. So far I have checked the ignition switch and its good. The relays are good, but there is no power to the relay on #2 when the switch is on as indicated there should be in the Haynes manual. I'll check for spark at plugs when I get home.

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Monday, December 8th, 2008 AT 4:09 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,164 POSTS

Hi:
If the switch is good and there is no power to the relay, there has to be a break in the wire. Check near the firewall for a broken or damaged wire.

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Monday, December 8th, 2008 AT 5:08 PM

BKWDSMAN

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3 POSTS

Well, there is spark at the plugs, but weaker than I think it should be. I can't find any broken wires. HELP!

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Tuesday, December 9th, 2008 AT 11:41 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,164 POSTS

Hi:
If the spark appears weak, check the rotor and cap. Make sure there is no corrosion. Also, make sure the coil isn't arching power at another location. If all looks good, see if you can find a different coil to try. As far as the clicking, it sounds like the solenoid is bad on the starter. You will most likely need to replace the starter.

Let me know what you find.

Joe