Hi all!

I have a 2004 Durango 4x4, 5.7 70K miles and have recently developed an inconsistent starter problem. Once a day or so I run into the vehicle not starting on the first crack of the key. It sometimes takes a few tries to turnover and is usually helped by a tap of the accelerator.

I have posted a sound byte of this occuring earlier today. You can hear the sloppy attempt to start at try 4 and 5. The 6th time it turns over after I tapped the accelerator. One person advised it is the starter but wanted to get a second (or more) opinion before I begin changing parts. I had a '97 Wrangler that had the same symptoms and it turned out to be the CPS sensor (that year was known ot have trouble with them). Didn't know if this could be a repeat.

Here is the link: http://www.zshare.net/audio/6042472043860cb7/

Note: There are no error codes returned from the OBD.

 

Sounds like no spark or no fuel. Can't smell the audio

IndyDurango

 

I had considered that however,wouldn't there be an indication even when it is running? Once it starts, it runs real smooth. Incidentally, after it started, I turned it off and tried again and it started at first crack of the key.

I did notice just a little bit of rich fuel smell after starting but it was in the garage and it seemed normal since my other vehicles do that as well (particularly on cold starts).

 

With 70k, how old are the plugs? I would do a tune up.

If you smell fuel from the get-go, you can eliminate that. If it takes a bit, could be the fuel filter too.

IndyD

 

I just bought it so I can't say if they are the original or not. Although it was very well-maintined, i would venture to say that they are the original plugs. I beleive Dodge used "100k" plugs in there so maybe it is time they are changed. Can't hurt either way.

 

Indy,

I just pulled a plug out and noticed they are Champion MCC4 plugs -if I am not mistaken, these are the original plugs that shipped with the vehicle. They did not look to awfully carboned, however the gap was at .046. What are they supposed to be? Also the wires had "2003" printed on them. Considering this is a 2004 vehicle, I am inclined to beleive these may be original.

Steve

 

Those do sound like original plugs.

If it were me, I would do as much of a tune up as you can and see what happens. They needed changed at least 20,000 miles ago. Its cheap insurance and need to be done anyway, whether or not this is the exact problem.

IndyD

 

i had the same problem with my 5.7. eventually the CEL came on and when i read to code it was the CPS( cam position sensor) it took maybe 20 minutes to replace and i havent had any issues since.

 

And did the tap of the accelerator help it for you too??

Where is the CPS on this motor?

Looks like I will be doing a tuneup and maybe changing a sensor or two. I was thinking about dropping the fuel tank and replacing the fuel filter - not sure if has any value. I would think if I had a problem with fuel pressure, there would be an indication while it is running too. Fortunately, when it runs, it's strong and smooth.

Thanks!

Steve

 

So I did some testing this week (the issue only occured once this week). This time, before I tried to start the second time, I put the pedal down 1/2 way and it fired right up with a higher rev, then calmed down to normal (an expected response). I checked my plugs, which appear to be relatively new, wires are in great shape. Bled the fuel line and tested pressue - all seemed good.

Dirty throttle body? Any thoughts?