I've had the same problems not only with this Dodge but with the previous vehicle I was driving. Got fed up with the cable problem and got some cables with the molded ends at O'Reillys, cleaned the posts and put them on with some dielectric grease. End of problem.

 

the po601 could be set when very low voltage is detected, its not necessarily a real internal failure in the computer, at some time i had the same battery cables corroded constantly and a intermittent engine stall, and the IAC valve going bad, the positive cable that goes to the starter was close enough to the engine (or tranny?) to cause corrosion and electrical issues, (Was covered in white-green dust)

 

thanks for the tip on the cables with molded ends - I will check that out.

 

Well, I sent the computer back for a refund - hope I actually get one.

Sent the truck off to a shop in town. They just called saying that the truck is ready and all it needed was a distributor cap and rotor. Under $130.00.

I asked about the computer/code. Guy said truck probably misfired and caused the code. That he could hook it up to their machine and read code but that would cost $50 and he usually does not do it if he doesn't think it is needed. All he would do is clear the code if it is still reading it. I can get my BIL to clear the code, so I will go pick it up as is.

Well, there you have it. No new computer. I learned a lot though. Got my fingers crossed that my truck actually works guess I will find out in the morning when I pick it up.

 

Good news - my truck is working great.

Bad news - my car was running very poorly on the way to pick up the truck and check engine light was flashing. Left the car at the mechanic and they see coolant under the spark plugs - cracked head they say. So we have gone from bad to worse. My car is 2003 Ford Focus ZTW so I guess I need to go make friends over at the ford forum now...

Thanks a lot for all the great advice!

 

Well at least it looks as if you found decent mechanic to work on it.

Dave