I2001 dodge ram 3500 nstrument Cluster Missing
Champion
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 3,891
Likes: 8
From: NorCal
I purchased a 2001 dodge ram 3500 pickup from a tow yard. It was a theft recovery that had been left. The dash instrument cluster is missing from the truck. When I attempt to insert the key and start the truck nothing happens.
I have searched this forum using instrument cluster, dash board, no start, plus many more keywords and have been unable to find out the answer to my questions.
My questions:
Can I start the truck without an instrument cluster being in the truck? If so how?
What might prevent the truck from being able to start?
Are there any anti-theft devices that come standard on that model that might prevent it from starting?
I have attempted to post this question before but got some resistance. So as suggested, I listed a few of the keywords that I used in my search. I used so many that unfortunately I can not remember them all.
If there is a specific way of searching that I am not using could someone please let me know.
I have no problem helping out those in need as I do so all the time on other forums. My philosophy is that someone took the time to teach me so I should take the time and share my knowledge with others. Not one person knows everything. I have been a transmission mechanic for many years and I have owned many different cars but this is my first dodge. Thanks for any help in advance. If you all need anything let me know.
I have searched this forum using instrument cluster, dash board, no start, plus many more keywords and have been unable to find out the answer to my questions.
My questions:
Can I start the truck without an instrument cluster being in the truck? If so how?
What might prevent the truck from being able to start?
Are there any anti-theft devices that come standard on that model that might prevent it from starting?
I have attempted to post this question before but got some resistance. So as suggested, I listed a few of the keywords that I used in my search. I used so many that unfortunately I can not remember them all.
If there is a specific way of searching that I am not using could someone please let me know.
I have no problem helping out those in need as I do so all the time on other forums. My philosophy is that someone took the time to teach me so I should take the time and share my knowledge with others. Not one person knows everything. I have been a transmission mechanic for many years and I have owned many different cars but this is my first dodge. Thanks for any help in advance. If you all need anything let me know.
Quoting from the "other" thread:
If they truly were in some sort of bind and I spoke out of turn, then I would surely swallow my words and graciously apologize.
To add to what ppl have answered on your question so far:
1. Many dodges out there in the offroad world yank the cluster and still start. I don't know what they do though.
2. There's probably numerous things that could prevent a non-start.
3. Yes, an alarm system could contribute to a non-start condition. For example, this recent topic showed an aftermarket alarm system futzing with the running condition: https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...urned-off.html
The stock alarm system (this is an option on trucks iirc) should be fine, no problems, provided wires are intact and such.
Good luck!
Thread Starter
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Registered User
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
After some searching...
It seems as if there was an aftermarket alarm on the truck. When it was recovered it was recovered without the brain to the alarm. That is why it would not start... not only did it not have the alarm brain but there was a shortage in the set of wires that controls the starter and the ignition.
Thanks again all for your help!
Thanks again all for your help!
Legend
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 8,259
Likes: 4
From: Austin, TX
It seems as if there was an aftermarket alarm on the truck. When it was recovered it was recovered without the brain to the alarm. That is why it would not start... not only did it not have the alarm brain but there was a shortage in the set of wires that controls the starter and the ignition.
Thanks again all for your help!
Thanks again all for your help!
So you got it to start?
If so, glad to hear it!
Thread Starter
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Registered User
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
It runs!!!
Yes you read it right... it runs! Had to start it off the solenoid but it does run! Still gotta sort through the mess that is the wiring from the alarm to find the shorts but it does run. Has a bad freeze plug (the one right behind the motor mount) but no blown head gasket or anything major so far.
As for those that ask for pics maybe after I get the body in a bit better shape. It is a theft recovery after all I am sure you can imagine the shape its currently in.
Thanks again for all help!
As for those that ask for pics maybe after I get the body in a bit better shape. It is a theft recovery after all I am sure you can imagine the shape its currently in.
Thanks again for all help!