Hey all, recently my ram has been finding it very hard to start in the morning. It turns over fine just takes a second or two for the motor to start up. It has been quite damp here of late would that be a reason for it to do that? Has never had an issue with this before. Also since I fixed the plenum and installed a 180 degree tstat ive been getting a CEL for P1281 - motor not warm enough when it reaches temperature? Temp guage says its running at 180? Im quite lost any ideas where to start?

 

Don't run a 180 tstat unless you have a proper tune (SCT tuner or such)...Running one without a tune has no benefit, otherwise engineers probably would've settled on the 180. Put a 195* tstat in, preferably not a failsafe.

As far as the starting issue, when's the last time you did a tuneup? How's, the distributor cap look? If it's cracked moisture would love to find it's way in there. Aside from that, troubleshooting ignition, fuel, and compression is where you'll have to start.

 

Worn spark plug wires will cause starting issues in damp and/or humid weather.

 

I have a tune from HemiFever installed. Brand new distributor cap was installed when I did the plenum.

I have brand new spark plug wires I put in when I did the plenum.

Might just take it to my mechanic to look at when he goes to work, he works a dodge dealer and has always done me real good in the past.

 

What does your fuel pressure look like?

 

How do I check the pressure, just the line?

 

Need to rent/buy/borrow a fuel pressure tester. Hooks up on the schrader valve on the fuel rail. I think it's on the driver side. Should be around 49 PSI and should build pressure quickly.

 

The code you are getting happens with a few guys who switch to the 180 tstat... As for the starting issues like gdstock and stewie said check the fuel pressure and see where you are at.