1999 Dodge Ram timing

Tiny
THUNDER12CHICKEN
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 DODGE RAM
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 208,000 MILES
My 1999 dodge ram 1500 started idleing hard and began to vibrate at 40-45 mph in overdrive. I checked the timing and it was off greatly. I tried to losen the distributor bolt and turn it but it didnt seem to effect anything, my father said it was computer controlled and it would change itself. Is there any way to fix my timing problem?
Tuesday, April 14th, 2009 AT 10:39 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
The PCM automatically regulates the spark advance to fire the spark plugs according to input from various engine sensors. The input signals are then used to compute the optimum ignition timing for the lowest exhaust emissions and best driveability. Base ignition timing and all advance functions are controlled by the PCM and are not adjustable.

Is there a Check Engine light illuminated? If so, what codes are retrieved? If not then you may want to inspect timing belt/chain, also try swapping PCM with another known good PCM.

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Tuesday, April 14th, 2009 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
THUNDER12CHICKEN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Acheck engine light was on until I reset it after changing the plugs and wires. Code was for random misfires in about 3 different cylinders.
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Wednesday, April 15th, 2009 AT 7:24 AM
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
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A conventional timing light can not be used to check timing on this vehicle properly. Are you certain it is out of time? Have you check for healthy spark at all plugs?
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Wednesday, April 15th, 2009 AT 10:16 AM
Tiny
THUNDER12CHICKEN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The check engine light came back on today with the code of random misfires. I have no idea what to do. Also I've been getting oil in my air filter threw the breather hose that connects to the filter housing. When I unscrew the oil fill cap white smoke comes out. Not a lot but it's there. Also the smoke comes out of the breather hose when I take it off the housing.
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Wednesday, April 15th, 2009 AT 3:17 PM
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
Oil in the air filter is normally caused by what iscalled "blow-by". Over time the piston rings and cylinders get worn out allowing oil to go past the oil compression ring. I suggest getting a compression test done on your cylinders.

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Wednesday, April 15th, 2009 AT 11:34 PM

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