I've got an odd problem with my 98 Ram 1500 (V6).

Sometimes, but not always, when I start it after sitting overnight, it will start (but then stall) unless I keep pressure on the accelerator. If I drive for 2-3 miles, it is fine.

If I get to my destination and let the truck cool down a bit, I can come back and the problem might occur again.

So it's not stalling because the engine is cold, or hot, but something else.

There are no codes being thrown.

Does anyone have an idea of where I should look next?

Regards,

Rick

 

Welcome to the forum.

It could be a couple things. Go to a shop, buy a Haynes manual and a multimeter (if you don't already have one). Follow the testing procedures in that manual for the TPS and IAC. Or, if you have some money lying around, you can just replace the TPS and IAC. Either way, grab a Haynes manual for our trucks. Its not the end-all to vehicle repair/diagnosis, but it helps a lot.

If that doesn't solve your issue, next suspect could be your fuel pump.

 

well it could be any of a long list of problems including needing a tune up, or a vacuum leak, etc, but - if its otherwise running ok - and you don't mind betting $80 that i can guess your problem in 2 tries - then replace the IAC. its on the back of the throttle body, one elec connector and 2 torx. when you remove the old one, note how the pintle slides in/out of a well to allow air to bypass the closed throttle plate. make sure the well is clean and free of debris and crud, and make sure the hole is OPEN into the TB. also note it has an o-ring. don't forget it. do not push, pull or twist on the new IAC pintle.

if that doesn't fix it, replace the TPS on drivers side of TB. each part is $40-50 at any local parts store.

 

My truck did the same thing. Check the ground cable on the battery, it either needs tightening or replacing. That solved my problem.