my dodge is throwing codes 1281 and 720 could anybody point me to what this might mean


Thanks

 

P0720 - Low Output SPD Sensor RPM, Above 15 MPH, which means: (a) The relationship between the Output Shaft Speed Sensor and vehicle speed is not within acceptable limits, or (b) Output shaft speed is less than 60 rpm with vehicle speed above 15 mph (4-speed auto. trans. only).

P1281 - Engine is Cold Too Long; which means: Engine coolant temperature remains below normal operating temperatures during vehicle travel (Thermostat).

For P1281, as it says, thermostat, or maybe the engine coolant temperature sensor.

For P0720, maybe a bad speed sensor?

 

thanks do either of these seem very serious

 

The temperature will cause you problems, because your truck will keep dumping fuel into the engine to compensate for how cold it "thinks" the motor is. I would definently look into that one. The other may not be such a big deal until your ABS or something doesn't work. The speed sensors aren't that expensive anyway.

 

would this be a speed sensor or an anti lock speed sensor?

thanks again for all the help

 

The speed sensor in the differential controls your speedometer and your rear wheel anti-lock brakes. So in essence it is both, one sensor can have many different functions.

 

ok when i call the part storew they said they had both type and i love your sig

 

i think im going to start with the theromstat and pick up the speed sensor is the speed sensor very hard to change?

 

if anybody has any tips this would be very helpfull sorry if im bugging anybody but im kinda new to this

 

If you haven't found it yet here's a service manual for an '01, but it should cover you pretty good for your 2000. It's a pretty big file so if your on dial-up it'll take a while.

http://www.neonix.org/nero/files/2001ramsrvcmanual.zip

Hopefully this will help you a little.