Update; Big Thanks go out to "HeyYou" and "zman17" for taking the time to reply and for the Very good information. My truck runs like a top again. Last parts in seemed to do the trick, ie; Engine Coolant Temp Sensor & the IAC. Thanks again for the Help.

I have a problem I need help with, first off I would like to thank folks in advance for any input, much appreciated.

The problem; I have a 97 Ram 1500 with the 5.9L Gas engine, 2 wheel drive, etc. Problem started a week ago which is it cuts out at idle, will only start at that point with the pedal to the floor and wouldn't accept throttle at idle.

What I have done and results to date; Changed out the Cat to a Magnaflow Cat and changed the 0/2 sensors, ( "Bosch" yes I know but all that was available at the time), installed new plugs, cap, rotor and Air Filter. Also pulled the Throttle Body and cleaned out the IAC and the entire TB, as well as a new gasket for the TB. Also replaced the Cam Position Sensor in the Distributor,( Autozone purchase). I have about 1/4 tank of gas so I put about 3/4 of a can of Seafoam in the tank.

After all that I took it for a ride about 10 miles round trip, seemed to run well. Then took it up to the store a bit ago, maybe 3 miles, got up to operating temp at a light, hesitated at throttle and actually sputtered and died after pulling into the parking lot. Waited a few minutes and tried starting, only way it will start is pedal to the floor. Then it won't idle right, seems I am back at square 1.

Seems to me I smell gas when the stall occurs and also seems to do it after it reaches operatiing temp. My thoughts; I think it may be the IAC not working properly and believe I should replace it. Plugs looked fairly Black when I pulled them though not fouled out. The truck has just a tad over 100K on it, any Input is Highly appreciated.

Larry

 

Black plugs means its running rich. Either the TPS is going south, or the engine coolant temp sensor. (your truck has two, the one you are interested in is to the drivers side of the thermostat housing, with a two wire connector. other one is for the gauge in the dash.)

 

IAC probably, cleaning it does not always work. And if it does this only when up to operating temp, there is a good possibility the crank sensor is going bad.

And or what the troll said. LOL

 

Thanks for the info! I'll be picking up a new IAC from Dodge tomorrow, kind of don't trust the auot parts stores much for electronics. Guess I can pick up an Intake Temp Sensor as well and try that. This thing is starting to cost more than its worth.

Larry

 

Although I agree with getting them from the dealer, if you can find a parts store that sells Standard Motor Products, that is the only other brand I would go with.

 

Thank You! I'll see if anyone carries that brand, I have Napa, Autozone, Track Auto and Advance nearby here. Dealer wants entitlement to the First Born for Parts Prices!

Larry

 

try track auto or napa. Forget autozone, and advance has Borg Warner. Don't forget to remove the negative battery cable before swapping them out. I also will suggest, only doing one of them at a time and trying it. This way you'll know which if either was causing the problem.

 

Thanks, I'll call those 2. I always pop the negative lead first. I will also try the IAC first and then the Engine Temp Sensor if the IAC doesn't do the trick.
I should also add that after I cleaned the TB/IAC it started right up and ran just about perfect. I've owned this truck since new, I've had besides regular maintenance, replaced the Water Pump, plugs 2 times, cam sensor once before and thats about it. Always treated me well so I guess I am due. I have a new T-Stat in the garage just in case but it "appears" the 1 in there is working well. ( can't remember if I changed it but think I did), < what happens when you get Old!

Larry

 

Did you have to remind me of the getting old part?

 

I see your from New Hampshire, First wife and I used to go up to Lake Winnapisakee, < spelling I'm sure. Beautiful part of the country there. Hope to retire up there some day!
I really appreciate the help, and fro HeyYou too. I was leaning to the IAC but am at the frustration point. I did install everything in stages so far, first Cat and o/2 sensors, rough idle but ran, then TB/IAC cleaning and plugs, etc. Just was a bit shocked that the first run this morning was fine, but later it stalled, guess I just had my hopes up too high. LOL!

Larry