Wont go over 20 mph
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Joined: Sep 2012
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Wont go over 20 mph
I have a 1999 Dodge Ram with the V8 and it starts right up but once I get going it wont go over 20 mph then dies and is hard to start agine. Any info on how to fix this would help. Thank you.
Grand Champion
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 5,011
Likes: 6
From: Meeker, CO
This sounds a lot like a clogged catalytic converter. Unscrew the upstream oxygen sensor to relieve exhaust pressure and take it for a spin. If the symptom is greatly improved, you've got a clogged cat, and almost certainly a blown intake manifold plenum gasket to go with it. There is also a strong possibility of a cracked head, as the overheating of the combustion chambers that accompanies a clogged cat quite often causes the heads to crack.
Also, if it's a clogged cat, you'll want to replace that upstream oxygen sensor along with the cat. The same oil that clogged the cat will foul that sensor.
Also, if it's a clogged cat, you'll want to replace that upstream oxygen sensor along with the cat. The same oil that clogged the cat will foul that sensor.
Grand Champion
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 5,971
Likes: 45
From: MAINE
Yup same thing happened to me on the highway towing a 6x12 trailer packed full....i just cut my exhaust and used a 4 foot piece of threaded rod to hollow it...cost less than $10 to fix the problem
Legend
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 8,914
Likes: 4
From: Fredericksburg, Virginia
You can take out the pre-cat O2 sensor (physically remove it from the pipe) and see if it runs any better, if so, gut that puppy or take it out, depending on the local laws in your area. Feds says you have to have a cat but I doubt they're gonna check, local emission laws are usually more enforced...
Legend
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 8,914
Likes: 4
From: Fredericksburg, Virginia
No, it's not going to SOLVE the problem, but it may help the poor lad get past 20mph.......
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Professional
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 243
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Definitely clogged cat same thing happened to me but I just happened to have one of those fancy exhaust cutters that's a chain hooked up I don't know how to explain it but its a lot easier than a sawzall or grinder might wanna invest in one its really convienient
Here's a video of it in action
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sour...KmmCVs3nnq3cCg
Here's a video of it in action
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sour...KmmCVs3nnq3cCg
Last edited by jpsycoboy5; Sep 27, 2012 at 11:35 AM.
