My 96 Ram 2500 with a 5.9L (I assume you meant 5.9L for your engine) had an intermittent no start condition, and sometimes it would pop when letting off key from start position. The problem got progressively worse until it was almost all the time. It was recommended that I replace the crank and cam position sensors, but I really wanted to know which one was the problem. Finally truck died where I was able to work on it. I replaced the cam position sensor, under the distributor cap and the truck immediately started. The engine has been running trouble free for nearly a year.I know it is not wise to throw parts at a problem with out a complete diagnosis, but this part is relatively inexpensive and not difficult to replace. I used a NAPA sensor ( I know OEM is recommended ) and is working fine. NAPA did not list a cam position sensor, they list it in distributor parts section as a pick-up coil, not sure why. Of course you should probably replace cap, rotor and wires while your in there. This may not be your problem, jut a guess based on my experience. Good Luck, snow will be falling before we know it.

 

Well I just troubleshot the ignition coil, 12 volt bulb on the input harness blinks when cranking, but nothing out the secondary wire to the distributor (as tested with a timing light inductive pickup with the input harness reconnected). The coil looks like crap, core delaminating and it is a $30 part. I may pull the dist cap and rotor off and replace those as well. Off to Autozone today...

JH