New to the Forum; but long time "Car Guy". I just picked up a "one owner", 20K "original miles" 1985 Dodge Ram Prospector, 3.7 4 speed; great truck. I got the engine running and while running noticed what I am assuming was the Charcoal Cannister (canister below the Smog Pump) turn Red Hot. I'm assuming that from sitting for about 10 years possibly something climbed up and is stock in the exhaust; going to look into that tomorrow; any other suggestions?

 

3.7? Is that the inline six??

Can you post a pic of what you are talking about? Charcoal canister is usually plastic.....

 

Here's a pic showing what component is heating up Red Hot when I let the 3.7 run.

 

That's the catalytic converter. When you say turns red hot is it glowing red?

 

I thought, looked at the "Catalytic Converter" was under the truck, right before the rear exhaust? I can see (what appears to be) the CC again before the muffler, middle of tail pipe?