When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
3rd Gen Ram Tech2002-2008 Rams: This section is for TECHNICAL discussions only, that involve the 2002 through 2008 Rams Rams. For any non-tech discussions, please direct your attention to the "General discussion/NON-tech" sub sections.
That damaged plug was from 1. I will do as you suggested and check it out with the rockers off. Definitely looks like it would be easier to pull the heads with the engine out, but I bet it can be done. Trying to find a corner out of the wind for this project, it's a little involved for a curbside job in the winter here.
Sounds like a valve issue. I don’t know if possibly the MDS system is holding the valves open or not. I can’t remember if the MDS holds the valves open or shut when it is activated. Hopefully it’s something cheap and easy to repair.
I loosened the rockers up, and that seemed to let the exhaust valve close. Must not've been quite TDC. Now I have air (doesn't seem like a lot) coming out the oil cap. Rings? I didn't get better compression with oil in the cylinder, so not sure this is lining up.