Ignition key positions - what is powered up?
#1
04-07-2009, 12:17 PM
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Ignition key positions - what is powered up?
I have model year 2008 RAM 2500 6.7L diesel.
I am wondering if there is a definition of what functions are powered up at the first position clockwise from where the key is inserted.
The key has 5 positions including the off position at which the key can be removed:
1) One turn counter clockwise gives accessory.
2) Off, key can be removed
3) One turn clockwise unlocks the steering wheel, shows odometer and automatic transmission gear selection.
4) Two tuns clockwise is "run".
5) Three turns clockwise is momentary contact for "start".
What is the purpose for #3, the first clockwise position? My guess right now is that this is "key sense" for the RFID key support. There is also a mechanical contact that is made when the key is inserted used to activate the chime should you open the door with key in ignition. That could also serve as "key sense" to read the RFID information, I do not yet know the method.
If anyone knows the purpose of this #3 switch position, what takes place, and what is powered up please enlighten me. Are the key positions listed above (for diesel) the same with a gas engine?
I am wondering if there is a definition of what functions are powered up at the first position clockwise from where the key is inserted.
The key has 5 positions including the off position at which the key can be removed:
1) One turn counter clockwise gives accessory.
2) Off, key can be removed
3) One turn clockwise unlocks the steering wheel, shows odometer and automatic transmission gear selection.
4) Two tuns clockwise is "run".
5) Three turns clockwise is momentary contact for "start".
What is the purpose for #3, the first clockwise position? My guess right now is that this is "key sense" for the RFID key support. There is also a mechanical contact that is made when the key is inserted used to activate the chime should you open the door with key in ignition. That could also serve as "key sense" to read the RFID information, I do not yet know the method.
If anyone knows the purpose of this #3 switch position, what takes place, and what is powered up please enlighten me. Are the key positions listed above (for diesel) the same with a gas engine?
#3
04-07-2009, 09:53 PM
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#5
04-07-2009, 11:53 PM
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Yes, I checked the manual before posting.
No explanation for this "intermediate" position between key inserted and run.
If it was simply to unlock the steering column the mechanical portion would
do that - you would not need the electrical contact present. That is why I am
thinking that it is likely to activate the key RFID sense.
As far as I can tell the electrical component is the same for a 2008 RAM
2500 in gas or diesel - that from part number information. I would like
confirmation from someone with a gas rig. I guess a dealer visit would
answer that.
No explanation for this "intermediate" position between key inserted and run.
If it was simply to unlock the steering column the mechanical portion would
do that - you would not need the electrical contact present. That is why I am
thinking that it is likely to activate the key RFID sense.
As far as I can tell the electrical component is the same for a 2008 RAM
2500 in gas or diesel - that from part number information. I would like
confirmation from someone with a gas rig. I guess a dealer visit would
answer that.
