1998 DODGE RAM 1500 PCM

OPERATION
Fuel Pressure Regulator Operation:The pres-
sure regulator is a mechanical device that is not con-
trolled by engine vacuum or the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM).
The regulator is calibrated to maintain fuel system
operating pressure of approximately 58   2 psi at the
fuel injectors. It contains a diaphragm, calibrated
springs and a fuel return valve. The internal fuel fil-
ter (Fig. 2) is also part of the assembly.
Fuel is supplied to the filter/regulator by the elec-
tric fuel pump through an opening tube at the bot-
tom of filter/regulator (Fig. 2).
The regulator acts as a check valve to maintain
some fuel pressure when the engine is not operating.
This will help to start the engine. A second check
valve is located at the outlet end of the electric fuel
pump.Refer to Fuel Pump - Description and
Operation for more information.
If fuel pressure at the pressure regulator exceeds
approximately 60 psi, an internal diaphragm opens
and excess fuel pressure is routed back into the tank
through the bottom of pressure regulator.
Both fuel filters (at bottom of fuel pump module
and within fuel pressure regulator) are designed for
extended service. They do not require normal sched-
uled maintenance. Filters should only be replaced if
a diagnostic procedure indicates to do so.
FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel pump module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel pump module has 4 different circuits
(wires). Two of these circuits are used for the fuel
gauge sending unit for fuel gauge operation, and for
certain OBD II emission requirements. The other 2
wires are used for electric fuel pump operation.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant current
source is supplied to the resistor track on the fuel
gauge sending unit. This is fed directly from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM).NOTE: For
diagnostic purposes, this 12V power source can
only be verified with the circuit opened (fuel
pump module electrical connector unplugged).
With the connectors plugged, output voltages
will vary from about 0.6 volts at FULL, to about
8.6 volts at EMPTY (about 8.6 volts at EMPTY
for Jeep models, and about 7.0 volts at EMPTY
for Dodge Truck models).The resistor track is
used to vary the voltage (resistance) depending on
fuel tank float level. As fuel level increases, the float
and arm move up, which decreases voltage. As fuel
level decreases, the float and arm move down, which
increases voltage. The varied voltage signal is
returned back to the PCM through the sensor return
circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the PCM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the PCM, the PCM
will interpret the resistance (voltage) data and send
a message across the multi-plex bus circuits to the
instrument panel cluster. Here it is translated into
the appropriate fuel gauge level reading. Refer to
Instrument Panel for additional information.
For OBD II Emission Monitor Requirements:
The PCM will monitor the voltage output sent from
the resistor track on the sending unit to indicate fuel
level. The purpose of this feature is to prevent the
OBD II system from recording/setting false misfire
and fuel system monitor diagnostic trouble codes.
The feature is activated if the fuel level in the tank
is less than approximately 15 percent of its rated
capacity. If equipped with a Leak Detection Pump
(EVAP system monitor), this feature will also be acti-
vated if the fuel level in the tank is more than
approximately 85 percent of its rated capacity.
Fig. 2 SIDE VIEW - FILTER/REGULATOR
1 - INTERNAL FUEL FILTER
2 - FUEL FLOW TO FUEL INJECTORS
3 - FUEL FILTER/FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR
4 - EXCESS FUEL BACK TO TANK
5 - FUEL INLET
6 - RUBBER GROMMET
7 - TOP OF PUMP MODULE
14 - 6 FUEL DELIVERY - GASDR
FUEL FILTER/PRESSURE REGULATOR (Continued)

FUEL INJECTION - GAS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
ACCELERATOR PEDAL
REMOVAL.............................21
INSTALLATION.........................21
ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................22
OPERATION...........................22
REMOVAL.............................22
INSTALLATION.........................22
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................23
OPERATION...........................23
REMOVAL.............................24
INSTALLATION.........................25
FUEL INJECTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................26
OPERATION
OPERATION - FUEL INJECTOR..........26
OPERATION - PCM OUTPUT............27
REMOVAL.............................27
INSTALLATION.........................27
FUEL PUMP RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................27
OPERATION...........................27
REMOVAL.............................28
INSTALLATION.........................28
IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................28
OPERATION...........................28
REMOVAL.............................29
INSTALLATION.........................29INTAKE AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................30
OPERATION...........................30
REMOVAL.............................30
INSTALLATION.........................31
MAP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................32
OPERATION...........................32
REMOVAL.............................33
INSTALLATION.........................34
OXYGEN SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................35
REMOVAL.............................35
INSTALLATION.........................36
PTO SWITCH
DESCRIPTION.........................36
OPERATION...........................36
THROTTLE BODY
DESCRIPTION.........................36
OPERATION...........................36
REMOVAL.............................36
INSTALLATION.........................37
THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE
REMOVAL.............................38
INSTALLATION.........................40
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................41
OPERATION...........................41
REMOVAL.............................41
INSTALLATION.........................43
ACCELERATOR PEDAL
REMOVAL
The following procedure applies only to vehicles
without the Adjustable Pedal Package (code XAP).
The accelerator pedal is serviced as a complete
assembly including the bracket.
The accelerator cable is connected to the upper
part of the accelerator pedal arm by a plastic
retainer (clip) (Fig. 1). This plastic retainer snaps
into the top of the accelerator pedal arm.
(1) From inside the vehicle, hold up accelerator
pedal. Remove plastic cable retainer (clip) and throt-
tle cable core wire from upper end of accelerator
pedal arm (Fig. 1). Plastic cable retainer (clip) snaps
into pedal arm.(2) Remove 2 accelerator pedal mounting bracket
nuts. Remove accelerator pedal assembly.INSTALLATION
(1) Place accelerator pedal assembly over 2 studs.
(2) Install and tighten 2 mounting nuts. Refer to
Torque Specifications.
(3) Slide throttle cable into opening slot in top of
pedal arm.
(4) Push plastic cable retainer (clip) into accelera-
tor pedal arm opening until it snaps into place.
(5) Before starting engine, operate accelerator
pedal to check for any binding.
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 21

ACCELERATOR PEDAL
POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APPS)
assembly is located under the vehicle battery tray. A
cable connects the assembly to the accelerator pedal.
A plastic cover with a movable door is used to cover
the assembly.
The APPS is used only with the 5.7L V-8 engine.
OPERATION
The Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APPS) is a
linear potentiometer. It provides the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM) with a DC voltage signal propor-
tional to the angle, or position of the accelerator
pedal. The APPS signal is translated (along with
other sensors) to place the throttle plate (within the
throttle body) to a pre-determined position.
A mechanical cable is used between the accelerator
pedal and the APPS assembly. Although a cable is
used between the pedal and APPS, a mechanical
cable is not used at the throttle body. Throttle plate
position is electrically determined.
REMOVAL
The APPS is serviced (replaced) as one assembly
including the sensor, plastic housing and cable. The
APPS assembly is located under the vehicle battery
tray (Fig. 2). Access to APPS is gained from over top
of left / front tire.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
(2) Disconnect APPS cable at accelerator pedal.
Refer to Accelerator Pedal Removal / Installation.
(3) Remove wheel house liner at left / front wheel.
Refer to Body.
(4) Gain access to APPS electrical connector by
opening swing-down door (Fig. 3). Disconnect electri-
cal connector.
(5) Remove 3 mounting bolts (Fig. 3).
(6) Remove APPS assembly from battery tray.
(7) If cable is to be separated at APPS, unsnap
cable clip from ball socket (Fig. 4). Release cable from
plastic housing by pressing on small cable release tab
(Fig. 3).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor
(APPS) cable to accelerator pedal. Refer to Accelera-
tor Pedal Removal / Installation.
(2) Connect electrical connector to APPS.
(3) If necessary, connect cable to APPS lever ball
socket (snaps on).
(4) Snap APPS cable cover closed.
Fig. 1 ACCELERATOR PEDAL MOUNTING
1 - ACCELERATOR CABLE
2 - PLASTIC RETAINER (CLIP)
3 - THROTTLE PEDAL ARM
4 - PEDAL / BRACKET ASSEMBLY
5 - CABLE CLIP
Fig. 2 APPS LOCATION
1 - BATTERY TRAY
2 - APPS LOCATION
3 - APPS MOUNTING BOLTS
14 - 22 FUEL INJECTION - GASDR
ACCELERATOR PEDAL (Continued)

(5) Position APPS assembly to bottom of battery
tray and install 3 bolts. Refer to Torque Specifica-
tions.
(6) Install wheelhouse liner. Refer to Body.
(7)The 5.7L V-8 engine is equipped with a
fully electronic accelerator pedal position sen-
sor. If equipped with a 5.7L, also perform the
following 3 steps:
(a) Connect negative battery cable to battery.
(b) Turn ignition switch ON, but do not crank
engine.
(c) Leave ignition switch ON for a minimum of
10 seconds. This will allow PCM to learn electrical
parameters.
(d) The DRB IIItScan Tool may also be used to
learn electrical parameters. Go to the Miscella-
neous menu, and then select ETC Learn.
(8) If the previous step is not performed, a Diag-
nostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set.
(9) If necessary, use DRB IIItScan Tool to erase
any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) from PCM.
CRANKSHAFT POSITION
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
3.7L V-6
The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is mounted
into the right rear side of the cylinder block. It is
positioned and bolted into a machined hole.
4.7L V-8
The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is mounted
into the right rear side of the cylinder block. It is
positioned and bolted into a machined hole.
5.7L V-8
The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is mounted
into the right rear side of the cylinder block. It is
positioned and bolted into a machined hole.
OPERATION
3.7L V-6
Engine speed and crankshaft position are provided
through the CKP (Crankshaft Position) sensor. The
sensor generates pulses that are the input sent to the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM inter-
prets the sensor input to determine the crankshaft
position. The PCM then uses this position, along with
other inputs, to determine injector sequence and igni-
tion timing.
Fig. 3 APPS REMOVE / INSTALL
1 - BOTTOM OF BATTERY TRAY
2 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - APPS
4 - SWING-DOWN DOOR
5 - CABLE (TO PEDAL)
6 - CABLE RELEASE TAB
Fig. 4 APPS CABLE
1 - APPS LEVER
2 - BALL SOCKET
3 - SWING-DOWN DOOR
4 - CABLE CLIP
5 - CABLE
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 23
ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

The sensor is a hall effect device combined with an
internal magnet. It is also sensitive to steel within a
certain distance from it.
A tonewheel (targetwheel) is bolted to the engine
crankshaft (Fig. 5). This tonewheel has sets of
notches at its outer edge (Fig. 5).
The notches cause a pulse to be generated when
they pass under the sensor. The pulses are the input
to the PCM.
4.7L V-8
Engine speed and crankshaft position are provided
through the crankshaft position sensor. The sensor
generates pulses that are the input sent to the pow-
ertrain control module (PCM). The PCM interprets
the sensor input to determine the crankshaft posi-
tion. The PCM then uses this position, along with
other inputs, to determine injector sequence and igni-
tion timing.
The sensor is a hall effect device combined with an
internal magnet. It is also sensitive to steel within a
certain distance from it.
On the 4.7L V±8 engine, a tonewheel is bolted to
the engine crankshaft (Fig. 6). This tonewheel has
sets of notches at its outer edge (Fig. 6).
The notches cause a pulse to be generated when
they pass under the sensor. The pulses are the input
to the PCM.
5.7L V-8
Engine speed and crankshaft position are provided
through the crankshaft position sensor. The sensor
generates pulses that are the input sent to the pow-
ertrain control module (PCM). The PCM interprets
the sensor input to determine the crankshaft posi-
tion. The PCM then uses this position, along with
other inputs, to determine injector sequence and igni-
tion timing.
The sensor is a hall effect device combined with an
internal magnet. It is also sensitive to steel within a
certain distance from it.
On the 5.7L V±8 engine, a tonewheel is bolted to
the engine crankshaft. This tonewheel has sets of
notches at its outer edge (Fig. 7).
The notches cause a pulse to be generated when
they pass under the sensor. The pulses are the input
to the PCM.
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6
The Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor is mounted
into the right rear side of the cylinder block (Fig. 8).
It is positioned and bolted into a machined hole.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Disconnect sensor electrical connector.
(3) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 8).
Fig. 5 CKP OPERATION - 3.7L V-6
1 - TONEWHEEL
2 - NOTCHES
3 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
4 - CRANKSHAFT
Fig. 6 CKP SENSOR OPERATION AND TONEWHEEL
- 4.7L V-8
1 - TONEWHEEL
2 - NOTCHES
3 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
4 - CRANKSHAFT
14 - 24 FUEL INJECTION - GASDR
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

stream. The spraying action atomizes the fuel, add-
ing it to the air entering the combustion chamber.
The nozzle (outlet) ends of the injectors are posi-
tioned into openings in the intake manifold just
above the intake valve ports of the cylinder head.
The engine wiring harness connector for each fuel
injector is equipped with an attached numerical tag
(INJ 1, INJ 2 etc.). This is used to identify each fuel
injector.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage is supplied to the injectors through
the ASD relay.
The PCM determines injector pulse width based on
various inputs.
OPERATION - PCM OUTPUT
The nozzle ends of the injectors are positioned into
openings in the intake manifold just above the intake
valve ports of the cylinder head. The engine wiring
harness connector for each fuel injector is equipped
with an attached numerical tag (INJ 1, INJ 2 etc.).
This is used to identify each fuel injector with its
respective cylinder number.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage (12 volts +) is supplied to the injec-
tors through the ASD relay. The ASD relay will shut-
down the 12 volt power source to the fuel injectors if
the PCM senses the ignition is on, but the engine is
not running. This occurs after the engine has not
been running for approximately 1.8 seconds.
The PCM determines injector on-time (pulse width)
based on various inputs.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove fuel rail. Refer to Fuel Injector Rail
Removal.
(2) Disconnect clip(s) that retain fuel injector(s) to
fuel rail (Fig. 12).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install fuel injector(s) into fuel rail assembly
and install retaining clip(s).(2) If same injector(s) is being reinstalled, install
new o-ring(s).
(3) Apply a small amount of clean engine oil to
each injector o-ring. This will aid in installation.
(4) Install fuel rail. Refer to Fuel Rail Installation.
(5) Start engine and check for fuel leaks.
FUEL PUMP RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The 5±pin, 12±volt, fuel pump relay is located in
the Power Distribution Center (PDC). Refer to the
label on the PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) energizes
the electric fuel pump through the fuel pump relay.
The fuel pump relay is energized by first applying
battery voltage to it when the ignition key is turned
ON, and then applying a ground signal to the relay
from the PCM.
Whenever the ignition key is turned ON, the elec-
tric fuel pump will operate. But, the PCM will shut-
down the ground circuit to the fuel pump relay in
approximately 1±3 seconds unless the engine is oper-
ating or the starter motor is engaged.
Fig. 12 INJECTOR RETAINING CLIP
1 - PLIERS
2 - INJECTOR CLIP
3 - FUEL INJECTOR - TYPICAL
4 - FUEL RAIL - TYPICAL
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 27
FUEL INJECTOR (Continued)

REMOVAL
The fuel pump relay is located in the Power Distri-
bution Center (PDC) (Fig. 13). Refer to label on PDC
cover for relay location.
(1) Remove PDC cover.
(2) Remove relay from PDC.
(3) Check condition of relay terminals and PDC
connector terminals for damage or corrosion. Repair
if necessary before installing relay.
(4) Check for pin height (pin height should be the
same for all terminals within the PDC connector).
Repair if necessary before installing relay.
INSTALLATION
The fuel pump relay is located in the Power Distri-
bution Center (PDC). Refer to label on PDC cover for
relay location.
(1) Install relay to PDC.
(2) Install cover to PDC.
IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
A separate IAC motor is not used with the 5.7L V-8
engine.
The IAC stepper motor is mounted to the throttle
body, and regulates the amount of air bypassing the
control of the throttle plate. As engine loads and
ambient temperatures change, engine rpm changes.
A pintle on the IAC stepper motor protrudes into apassage in the throttle body, controlling air flow
through the passage. The IAC is controlled by the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to maintain the
target engine idle speed.
OPERATION
A separate IAC motor is not used with the 5.7L V-8
engine.
At idle, engine speed can be increased by retract-
ing the IAC motor pintle and allowing more air to
pass through the port, or it can be decreased by
restricting the passage with the pintle and diminish-
ing the amount of air bypassing the throttle plate.
The IAC is called a stepper motor because it is
moved (rotated) in steps, or increments. Opening the
IAC opens an air passage around the throttle blade
which increases RPM.
The PCM uses the IAC motor to control idle speed
(along with timing) and to reach a desired MAP dur-
ing decel (keep engine from stalling).
The IAC motor has 4 wires with 4 circuits. Two of
the wires are for 12 volts and ground to supply elec-
trical current to the motor windings to operate the
stepper motor in one direction. The other 2 wires are
also for 12 volts and ground to supply electrical cur-
rent to operate the stepper motor in the opposite
direction.
To make the IAC go in the opposite direction, the
PCM just reverses polarity on both windings. If only
1 wire is open, the IAC can only be moved 1 step
(increment) in either direction. To keep the IAC
motor in position when no movement is needed, the
PCM will energize both windings at the same time.
This locks the IAC motor in place.
In the IAC motor system, the PCM will count
every step that the motor is moved. This allows the
PCM to determine the motor pintle position. If the
memory is cleared, the PCM no longer knows the
position of the pintle. So at the first key ON, the
PCM drives the IAC motor closed, regardless of
where it was before. This zeros the counter. From
this point the PCM will back out the IAC motor and
keep track of its position again.
When engine rpm is above idle speed, the IAC is
used for the following:
²Off-idle dashpot (throttle blade will close quickly
but idle speed will not stop quickly)
²Deceleration air flow control
²A/C compressor load control (also opens the pas-
sage slightly before the compressor is engaged so
that the engine rpm does not dip down when the
compressor engages)
²Power steering load control
The PCM can control polarity of the circuit to con-
trol direction of the stepper motor.
Fig. 13 PDC LOCATION
1 - BATTERY
2 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE (IPM)
14 - 28 FUEL INJECTION - GASDR
FUEL PUMP RELAY (Continued)

IAC Stepper Motor Program:The PCM is also
equipped with a memory program that records the
number of steps the IAC stepper motor most recently
advanced to during a certain set of parameters. For
example: The PCM was attempting to maintain a
1000 rpm target during a cold start-up cycle. The last
recorded number of steps for that may have been
125. That value would be recorded in the memory
cell so that the next time the PCM recognizes the
identical conditions, the PCM recalls that 125 steps
were required to maintain the target. This program
allows for greater customer satisfaction due to
greater control of engine idle.
Another function of the memory program, which
occurs when the power steering switch (if equipped),
or the A/C request circuit, requires that the IAC step-
per motor control engine rpm, is the recording of the
last targeted steps into the memory cell. The PCM
can anticipate A/C compressor loads. This is accom-
plished by delaying compressor operation for approx-
imately 0.5 seconds until the PCM moves the IAC
stepper motor to the recorded steps that were loaded
into the memory cell. Using this program helps elim-
inate idle-quality changes as loads change. Finally,
the PCM incorporates a9No-Load9engine speed lim-
iter of approximately 1800 - 2000 rpm, when it rec-
ognizes that the TPS is indicating an idle signal and
IAC motor cannot maintain engine idle.
A (factory adjusted) set screw is used to mechani-
cally limit the position of the throttle body throttle
plate.Never attempt to adjust the engine idle
speed using this screw.All idle speed functions are
controlled by the IAC motor through the PCM.
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6
The Idle Air Control (IAC) motor is located on the
side of the throttle body (Fig. 14).
(1) Remove air resonator box at throttle body.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector from IAC motor.
(3) Remove two mounting bolts (screws).
(4) Remove IAC motor from throttle body.
4.7L V-8
The Idle Air Control (IAC) motor is located on the
side of the throttle body (Fig. 15).
(1) Remove air resonator box at throttle body.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector from IAC motor.
(3) Remove two mounting bolts (screws).
(4) Remove IAC motor from throttle body.
5.7L V-8
The IAC motor is not serviceable on the 5.7L V-8
engine.
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
The Idle Air Control (IAC) motor is located on the
side of the throttle body (Fig. 14).
(1) Install IAC motor to throttle body.
(2) Install and tighten two mounting bolts (screws)
to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install electrical connector.
(4) Install air resonator to throttle body.
4.7L V-8
The Idle Air Control (IAC) motor is located on the
side of the throttle body (Fig. 15).
(1) Install IAC motor to throttle body.
(2) Install and tighten two mounting bolts (screws)
to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install electrical connector.
(4) Install air resonator to throttle body.
5.7L V-8
The IAC motor is not serviceable on the 5.7L V-8
engine.
Fig. 14 IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR - 3.7L V-6
1 - THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS)
2 - MOUNTING SCREWS
3 - IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR (IAC)
4 - MOUNTING SCREWS
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 29
IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR (Continued)