1998 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4 auto 144k

Runs great most of the time. I do have occasional spark knock or "pinging"

It's a work truck construction (hauling and towing). Also a plow truck.

Recently did spark plugs, wires, cap, rotor, coil, fuel pump. ignition has 2k miles fuel pump is pretty new.

I started the truck up and pulled out of the driveway, made a right turn, .5 mile down the road it sputtered and i pulled off a side street. Couldn't keep it running so a friend towed me home. It seemed to have fuel pressure at the rail, nothing seemed out of place on the exterior ignition components.

 

Need to check fuel pressure, and verify you have spark at the plugs.

 

Plenum gasket? Could be PCM on a 98.

 

Check for loose plug on bottom of the coil, unplug and replug it and see if it fires.

 

I can check the coil plug. The fact that it starts up then dies off makes me consider a timing issue? First start seems strongest then trying to start it right up again is very hard. I can give it gas to keep it alive slightly but it sounds bad. Misfiring and back firing

 

Timing isn't adjustable. Think I would have a look at fuel pressure.

 

I will check the coil and the fuel pressure when i get home. I didn't think you could adjust it but maybe something to do with the electronic side of timing? Any way to test the crank position sensor?

 

Fuel pressure is good, coil has been un plugged and plugged back in. Truck has spark.

What do you think I should test next?

 

Oh... and most imoportantly... it did not start today.

 

Do you get a nice, fat spark at the plug? You should be able to hear it snap.