The Green Machine
1997 Dodge Ram 1500
5.2L Gas Engine
4x4 Automatic Transmission
95,000 Miles

The Problem
I recently purchased this truck and the seller told me it needs a Camshaft and Crankshaft Position Sensor. Well I never changed it because it drove just fine. I drove the truck for about 3 weeks with no problems. The only thing I noticed is it turns over after it cranks a few times.

Recently I went to start it and it stalled a few seconds after starting. Thats when I started kicking myself in the butt for not getting those sensors changed.

However, today I went to start it and the battery was dead so I got someone to try boosting my truck. Don't ya know it started better than ever while being boosted and its not stalling (Its running right now while I type this thread).

So now I'm left wondering if my problem was a battery problem or the Camshaft/Crankshaft Position Sensors?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Did the dealer give a reason why the cam and crank sensors need replacing?

What voltage are you getting from the battery key on engine off?

The seller said it needs a cam/crank sensor because sometimes it won't start and there is rust on the sensors. I personally have not looked at the sensors as I'm not mechaniclly inclinded.

I'll check the reading from the battery now and reply back.

Battery Reading
Running: 13.65
Key Off: 12.01
Key On, Engine Off: 11.77

Also noticed while it was running just now in the driveway the Check Engine light was on. When I shut the truck off to do the above readings she just cranks wont start.

good #s , what year is this truck 99- newer do the key thing 3 times fast and it should flash ya a code (on-off ,on-off ,on-off , on )

As it says above bud its a 1997

Quick test to see if it is the AIC. Try feathering the fuel as you crank. If it starts right up then more than likely that is your problem.I suggest this just to eliminate it from the equation.I also highly doubt a little bit of surface rust on a magnetic pick-up style sensor will have an effect on its operation. Battery readings look good.

By the way nice name for the truck.

Tried feathering the gas. Doesn't help at all.
The guy that sold me this truck and told me its the cam/crank is a mechanic for the US army and currently stationed in Bagdad. He is a buddy of mine.

Thanks, I really love this truck. Its got the Flowmaster 50 Series exhaust modified to come out the side of the truck with custom tips and roars like a lion.