Hey guys I sent yall a message for help so check you in box, thanks!My 98 Ram 1500 has suddenly started to have starting issues. Normally when I start it up she fires right up; however the last 2 days it takes a long cranking cycle then she starts. When she starts she fires right up it's just now it's taking longer. I've been told that it could be a bleed off from the fuel pressure regulator, fuel pump might be going bad, spark plugs, etc. I have the 5.9L V-8 fuel injection and it's a 4 wheel drive truck. Thanks!

 

I'm thinking this one over and the more I think about it ... the more I think your throttle body and IAC need a visit from the carb cleaner fairy.

Then pull your plugs and check the gap.

 

Mine does the same thing, soif you figure it out lemme know

 

I know where the IAC valve is located on the 4.6L Ford engines but not on the 5.9L Dodges.....any suggestions? Also I started adding some Lucas fuel additive which has given me 15 more overall miles, but I've used that stuff for years along with Marvel Mystery Oil and I have had no problems. What are the symptoms of a fuel pump going bad?

 

The IAC is located on the back of the TB. Good write-up on cleaning and /or replacing here: https://dodgeforum.com/m_697481/tm.htm

I recommend cleaning first.

EDIT: Oh ... and a fuel pump usually doesn't slowly go bad ... it just quits ... as will your truck. It just won't start. Sometimes they're intermittent ... will start some days and not others ... but they don't consistently cause slow starts.

 

Thanks Wild Bill as usual you were a big help.

 

I had the same problem on my 97 dakota, it was the fuel pressure regulator. wasn't holding the prime..........Dallas

 

My best friend said the same thing he's a service manager at alarge Dodge dealership and that was the first thing he said. Where is the regulator located on the 5.9L?

 

Sits on top of the fuel pump.

Try the cheap and easy stuff first ... THEN start spending money and busting knuckles.

 

Roger That!