Tuesday, April 1, 2014
How to Install a Brake Controller on a 2005 RAM 1500
The Dodge Ram is Chryslers series of full-size pickup trucks that has been in production since 1981. The number in the series indicates the rated carrying capacity of the truck, such that a Ram 1500 is a 3/4 ton pickup. The 2005 Dodge Ram has an antilock braking system, or ABS, like most late-model vehicles. The brake controller, or hydraulic control unit -- HCU -- contains a microprocessor that calculates the amount of force that the brakes apply to each wheel in an emergency stop.
Instructions
- 1
Use a socket wrench to remove the housing for the left front turn signal. Disconnect the panel under the housing. Unplug the horns electrical connector and remove the access cover for the horn.
2Disconnect the mounting bolts on the reservoir for the windshield washer fluid with a socket wrench. Detach the hose and electrical connector from the pump for the windshield washer. Remove the reservoir from the vehicles engine compartment.
3Remove the battery and the power distribution center from the vehicle with a socket wrench. Disconnect the mount for the battery and power distribution center, and remove the mount from the vehicle. Detach the wiring harness from the HCU. Remove the fittings for the brake lines, and detach the brake lines from the HCU.
4Disconnect both mounting bolts for the HCU with a socket wrench. Tilt the HCU up, and pull it from its bracket.
5Install the new HCU to its mounting bracket, and torque the mounting bolts to 11 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Attach the HCU brake lines, tighten the fittings to 115 inch-pounds. Connect the electrical wiring harness to the HCU.
6Install the windshield washer reservoir. Attach the electrical connector and hose for the reservoir. Fasten the reservoirs mounting screws with a socket wrench.
7Replace the mount for the battery and power distribution center with a socket wrench. Install the battery and power distribution center. Attach the horns electrical connector, and replace the access cover for the horn. Install the left front turn signals panel and housing.
Saturday, February 1, 2014
How to Upgrade the Headlights on a Dodge Ram
Your Dodge Rams headlights provide the light you need to drive safely at night. Regularly inspect the trucks headlights to ensure they function properly. If they dont function properly or are burned out, promptly replace them with new, better-performing headlights. Replacing a burned out bulb is simple, requiring only basic tools and a little time.
Instructions
- 1
Turn off the Dodge Ram and set its parking break. Ensure the headlight switch is in the "Off" position.
2Open the hood.
3Unscrew the expanding fastener located in the headlight welt. Use a socket wrench to remove the three bolts holding the headlight assembly to the vehicle body.
4Pull the headlight assembly away from the vehicle body in order to access the electrical connections.
5Unlock and remove the headlight connector by depressing the plastic tab and pulling straight back from the headlamp.
6Twist the headlight collar 1/4-turn to remove it from the headlight assembly.
7Insert the new bulb into the headlight assembly and lock it in place. Reconnect all electrical connections. Reverse the above steps to replace headlight assembly. Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and that all bolts and screws are tight.
8Check the functionality of the headlights by turning the headlight selector switch to the "On" position. The headlights should illuminate. If not, double check all electrical connections.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
How do I Repair a 2001 Dodge 2500 RAM Cummins Turbo Diesel
Repairing a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 equipped with the 5.9 liter Cummins diesel motor may be simple or difficult, depending on the required repairs. The 5.9 liter, 24-valve Cummins diesel was available in model years 1998 through 2002 before being replaced with a common rail injection system. Many repairs may be completed by a do-it-yourself owner, while others should be performed by a professional mechanic. The first step in repairing your Dodge 2500 is to identify the problem and all affected parts.
Instructions
- 1
Diagnose the issue with the Ram by evaluating the pickups performance and referring to the manufacturers auto repair guide. Stalling, slow throttle response or lack of power may indicate an issue with the fuel systems or turbo charger. Trouble shifting could mean a transmission problem. The 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 is also equipped with a data port located underneath of the dash board on the drivers side. Plug a code reader, available at most auto parts stores or through a professional mechanic, into the port and read any codes that may indicate issues with one or more of the trucks operating systems.
2Identify the components and parts that operate the affected systems and test their performance. Note any under-performing, or broken, parts for replacement. Check to make sure that routine vehicle maintenance, such as oil change and transmission service intervals, are also up to date.
3Remove broken, or malfunctioning parts, and take them to a local auto parts store to match for replacement. Use only parts that are application-specific to the 2001 Dodge Ram 2500, or intended for universal use. Install new parts according to the manufacturers specifications and perform any neglected routine maintenance.
4Test drive the vehicle under variable driving conditions and evaluate whether or not the issue has been solved by the replaced or repaired parts. If not, refer back to the manufacturers auto repair guide and re-evaluate the source of the Ram 2500s problem.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Troubleshooting Guide for the 1999 Dodge RAM Truck
The 1999 Dodge Ram is a pick-up truck made by Dodge under the Chrysler company. This truck is considered "heavy duty" because its primarily for towing or hauling. If you are having problems with your 1999 Dodge Ram, there are several things that you can do before you take it to a shop. Non-invasive troubleshooting can also help get your Dodge Ram back on the road. You dont have to be a Dodge mechanic.
Instructions
- 1
Put the key into the ignition and turn it halfway to engage the instrument panel. Look over the gas and battery gauge on the right side of the dashboard. Make sure that you have enough fuel to start the truck. Dodge Rams use regular gasoline. Fill the gas tank as needed.
2Go to the front of the truck and release the hood latch on the left side of the grill. Raise the hood to reveal the engine and the battery. The battery is on the right side of the engine inside the truck. Make sure that the connections are tight from the battery cables to the battery terminals.
3Tighten the connections to the battery with pair of insulated channel locks. Try to restart the truck. If the truck will not restart, test the battery with a voltmeter. Place the testing leads from the voltmeter to the battery terminals. Look at the display on the voltmeter for a reading. Replace the battery if you arent getting 11-12 volts on your battery.
4Look over the cooling system if you are having problems with Ram overheating. The cooling system is on the left side of the engine. Pour 50/50 coolant into the coolant tank until it reaches the fill line on the side of the tank. You dont have any 50/50 coolant, use distilled water.
5Look around the Dodge Ram for leaks around the truck. If you find any leaks, you should have a professional mechanic take a look at the truck in order to make repairs. Driving your Ram while there is a leak could further damage the unit.
6Have your Dodge Ram towed to a repair shop if you have your check engine light on. Repair shops have onboard diagnostic machines to diagnose the problems.