1995 Dodge 1500 5.9.

The first problem that developed is when trying to start vehicle, sometimes it would crank but would not start, it seemed to me that when releasing the key caused it to start. This problem was intermittent. Some time it started and run normally. May go for days starting correctly.

Today, I started the vehicle and started driving to the gas station to fill it up with gas. The vehicle didn't seem to be missing but the engine bogged down on almost any acceleration. It seems to idle correctly but even in park cannot get engine to run correctly.

I know absolutely nothing about fuel ignition but seems to be starving for fuel. I opened the valve on the fuel rail and it seemed to have a lot of pressure and and a fair amount of gas was drained from the rail. I turned the key back on and filled the rail back up with gas. It started and will run probably at 1500 rpm, So the fuel pump is working at least somewhat.

My question is where do I start trying to find out the problem without taking it to a mechanic.

 

Check fuel pressure first. Should be around 39 PSI at idle. Should be able to rent a gauge from the parts store.

Is it better/worse as the engine warms up?

 

The same. I drove it about 8 miles to the gas station. As long as you don't try to accelerate it runs normal. I feel sure it is fuel related, or at least I hope it is.

 

The deal with the key release worried me it may be something electrical or a component breaking down.

 

Done your plenum yet? Could be the cat clogging up too......

 

No Sir, I checked the exhaust pipe and it seemed to be normal exhaust coming out of it. When increasing speed on engine, exhaust increased also.

 

I will get a gauge tomorrow and check fuel pressure. The only thing I know to do is start eliminating things.

 

Have you ever heard of an issue with starting upon key release?

 

Bad ignition switch maybe, or, if you have tilt-wheel, the harness wasn't quite long enough.... and putting the wheel all the way up, would stretch it. Eventually wires would pull loose, and you would get strange electrical gremlins.

Probably wouldn't hurt to pull the cover, and have a look. I don't think it's your whole problem, but, may be part of it.

And: Welcome to DF!

 

After I check a few things tomorrow afternoon, I will post again. You have a very nice well organized site. Thank You very much for your quick response.