my 95 dodge ram 5.2 liter recently developed a problem where it has trouble starting. sometimes it will fire right up and other times it will just crank and crank. runs fine once it starts. it has newer plugs and wires and a brand new cap and rotor. the code is # 11 and says, "no dist. ref signal detected during engine cranking. check circuit between the dist and PCM." i replaced the cam sensor in the dist. but still displays the same symptoms. i am pretty mechanically inclined yet am at a loss and quite frustrated. i even work at an auto service center but am not allowed to bring own vehicle in. i do not believe it is the fuel pump or filter either. wiring i suppose is one of my weaknesses. i really hope someone has had a similar experience or can offer sound advice. also the truck was totaled last year and i straightened frame, put new bed on and new rear axle. i am adding this bc i heard that sometimes impact of this caliber can cause strange electrical "demons" i really need to fix this problem ASAP! where do i go frome here?

 

If you had to replace your axle I would say make certain that the brake speedo sensor is OK on the pumpkin. That should not cause any starting issues, but just a thought if you want to hunt down electrical demons. Other than that, I would say maybe a coil issue, or maybe your dissy has a crack in it allowing moisture to get in. Just cause something is new doesn't always mean it's perfect. I would say try and replace the cap & rotor again & see if that helps. Someone else will chime in with other ideas.

 

thanks for the response! i have replaced my speedo sensor though. the cap and rotor had no obvious defects and i cannot afford to be a "parts cannon" and just throw parts on it until i get it to run. i considered the coil myself but would like to hear more advice and do some testing/diagnosis before spending the cash.

 

anyone?...Bueller?

 

Try and see if it will start with the accelerator on the floor. If it will start then, I'd say you need to look at the TPS.

 

sounds like the Crank sensor, not the cam sensor that's having issues.

 

+1 on the crank sensor.

"no dist. ref signal detected during engine cranking. check circuit between the dist and PCM."

 

that code usually indicates cam sensor but good point it can indicate crank sensor as well. the only thing is i replaced the crank sensor less than a year ago... also pressing the gas has no effect on the starting. basically i've decided to test the continuity of the wires from the dist to PCM. if they are ok and the crank sensor is ok, then the only thing left is a new PCM.

 

When the Crank Sensor goes, it could mess with the computer that controls everything else such as the cam and the relays. I would vote for replacing the $30 some dollar Crank Sensor. It's a bxtxch to removed and access I must warn. Good luck.