OK, I finally got some money together and did the following on my 1997 5.2L automatic: replaced the thermostat, PCV valve, upper and lower radiator hoses, air filter, serpentine belt, and plenum to throttle body gasket. The truck has 112,000 on it, of which I put the last 800 miles on. The radiator fluid reservoir looked like it had mud on the bottom of it, and it took some effort to clean out with fresh water (I removed it from the truck). Took the truck to Jiffy Lube, and they did a great job flushing the system, and it now runs at a constant 195/200, rather than fluctuating at 200 - 220 or so.

Now, it appears that the oil pressure is a bit squirrely. It sometimes reads 40psi, and then a bit low. Any suggestions as to the causes and what to look for? I have also read up on the fuel sending unit fix for diesels, but is that the same for gas engines? My fuel gauge drives me nuts just bobbing up and down as I cruise down the road.

I am also looking for sources on how to adjust the bands in the tranny. I want to perform the check valve maintenance, filter replacement, and band adjustments before taking the truck in for a tranny flush.

 

the sludge on the bottom of the radiator is from using the 5 year coolant and tap water... you need to flush the entire cooling system and re-fill with distilled water & the 5 year coolant. I had flushed my motor a year ago and back in may when I had it torn down I had the sludge re-forming on the inside of the brand new hoses (lower hose). did some research and found that it needs to have distilled water in there.

your oil pressure is most likely the sensor... they go bad after a while and start leaking oil on the top where the electrical connector is. swap it out, they're easy... it's located next to the distributor and you'll need a sensor socket to get it out.

cant help on the tranny...

 

Thanks for the info, Steve. What size socket is needed? I found one at the tool store today that is for both GM and Chrysler.

I found this link today, which had some great information http://dodgeram.org/tech/troubleshoot/Problems.htm

 

that website has a lot of great info, save it. you'll go back time and time agian... i do.

I think it's 7/8ths but not 100% sure. If it's for sensors, it should work.