1998 DODGE RAM 1500 Fuel filter

The fuel heater element and fuel heater relay
are not computer controlled.
The heater element operates on 12 volts, 300 watts
at 0 degrees F.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FUEL HEATER
The fuel heater is used to prevent diesel fuel from
waxing during cold weather operation.
NOTE: The fuel heater element, fuel heater relay
and fuel heater temperature sensor are not con-
trolled by the Engine Control Module (ECM).
A malfunctioning fuel heater can cause a wax
build-up in the fuel filter/water separator. Wax
build-up in the filter/separator can cause engine
starting problems and prevent the engine from rev-
ving up. It can also cause blue or white fog-like
exhaust. If the heater is not operating in cold tem-
peratures, the engine may not operate due to fuel
waxing.
The fuel heater assembly is located on the side of
fuel filter housing.
The heater assembly is equipped with a built-in
fuel temperature sensor (thermostat) that senses fuel
temperature. When fuel temperature drops below 45
degrees   8 degrees F, the sensor allows current to
flow to built-in heater element to warm fuel. When
fuel temperature rises above 75 degrees   8 degrees
F, the sensor stops current flow to heater element
(circuit is open).
Voltage to operate fuel heater element is supplied
from ignition switch, through fuel heater relay (also
refer to Fuel Heater Relay), to fuel temperature sen-
sor and on to fuel heater element.
The heater element operates on 12 volts, 300 watts
at 0 degrees F. As temperature increases, power
requirements decrease.
A minimum of 7 volts is required to operate the
fuel heater. The resistance value of the heater ele-
ment is less than 1 ohm (cold) and up to 1000 ohms
warm.
TESTING
(1) Disconnect electrical connector from thermostat
(Fig. 3).
Ambient temperature must be below the circuit
close temperature. If necessary, induce this ambient
temperature by placing ice packs on thermostat to
produce an effective ambient temperature below cir-
cuit close temperature.
Measure resistance across two pins. Operating
range is 0.3 Ð 0.45 Ohms.
(2) If resistance is out of range, remove thermostat
and check resistance across terminal connections of
heater. The heater can be checked at room tempera-
ture. Operating range is 0.3 - 0.45 Ohms.(3) Replace heater if resistance is not within oper-
ating range.
(4) If heater is within operating range, replace
heater thermostat.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
The fuel heater/element/sensor assembly is located
inside of the fuel filter housing. Refer to Fuel Filter/
Water Separator Removal/Installation for procedures.
FUEL HEATER RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The fuel heater relay is located in Power Distribu-
tion Center (PDC) (Fig. 5). Refer to label on inside of
PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
Battery voltage to operate the fuel heater element
is supplied from the ignition switch through the fuel
heater relay.The fuel heater element and fuel
heater relay are not computer controlled.
REMOVAL
The fuel heater relay is located in the Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC) (Fig. 6). Refer to label under
PDC cover for relay location.
(1) Remove PDC cover.
(2) Remove relay from PDC.
Fig. 5 POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER LOCATION
1 - CLIP
2 - BATTERY
3 - TRAY
4 - NEGATIVE CABLE
5 - POSITIVE CABLE
6 - CLIP
7 - FENDER INNER SHIELD
8 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
14 - 52 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL HEATER (Continued)

(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 heater relay is located in the Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC) (Fig. 6). Refer to label under
PDC cover for relay location.
(1) Install relay to PDC.
(2) Install cover to PDC.
FUEL INJECTION PUMP
DESCRIPTION
A Robert Bosch high-pressure fuel injection pump
is used. The pump is attached to the back of the tim-
ing gear cover at the left / rear side of the engine.
OPERATION
The fuel injection pump supplies high pressure to
the fuel rail independent of engine speed. This high
pressure is then accumulated in the fuel rail. High
pressure fuel is constantly supplied to the injectors
by the fuel rail. The Engine Control Module (ECM)
controls the fueling and timing of the engine by actu-
ating the injectors.
Fuel enters the system from the electric fuel trans-
fer (lift) pump, which is attached to the fuel filter
assembly. Fuel is forced through the fuel filter ele-
ment and then enters the Fuel Pump/Gear Pump,
which is attached to the rear of the fuel injection
pump. The Fuel Pump/Gear Pump is a low-pressure
pump and produce pressures ranging from 551.5 kpa
(80 psi) to 1241 kpa (180) psi. Fuel then enters the
fuel injection pump. Low pressure fuel is then sup-
plied to the FCA (Fuel Control Actuator).
The FCA is an electronically controlled solenoid
valve. The ECM controls the amount of fuel that
enters the high-pressure pumping chambers by open-
ing and closing the FCA based on a demanded fuel
pressure. The FPS (Fuel Pressure Sensor) on the fuel
rail provides the actual fuel pressure. When the
actuator is opened, the maximum amount of fuel is
being supplied to the fuel injection pump. Any fuel
that does not enter the injection pump is directed to
the cascade overflow valve. The cascade overflow
valve regulates how much excess fuel is used for
lubrication of the pump and how much is returned to
the tank through the drain manifold.
Fuel entering the injection pump is pressurized to
between 300-1600 bar (4351-23206 psi) by three
radial pumping chambers. The pressurized fuel is
then supplied to the fuel rail.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FUEL INJECTION
PUMP TIMING
With the Bosch injection pump, there are no
mechanical adjustments needed or necessary to
accomplish fuel injection timing. All timing and fuel
adjustments are electrically made by the engine
mounted Engine Control Module (ECM).
Fig. 6 POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER LOCATION
1 - CLIP
2 - BATTERY
3 - TRAY
4 - NEGATIVE CABLE
5 - POSITIVE CABLE
6 - CLIP
7 - FENDER INNER SHIELD
8 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 53
FUEL HEATER RELAY (Continued)

REMOVAL
CAUTION: Cleanliness cannot be overemphasized
when handling or replacing diesel fuel system com-
ponents. This especially includes the fuel injectors,
high-pressure fuel lines and fuel injection pump.
Very tight tolerances are used with these parts. Dirt
contamination could cause rapid part wear and pos-
sible plugging of fuel injector nozzle tip holes. This
in turn could lead to possible engine misfire.
Always wash/clean any fuel system component
thoroughly before disassembly and then air dry.
Cap or cover any open part after disassembly.
Before assembly, examine each part for dirt, grease
or other contaminants and clean if necessary. When
installing new parts, lubricate them with clean
engine oil or clean diesel fuel only.
(1) Disconnect both negative battery cables at both
batteries. Cover and isolate ends of both cables.
(2) Remove intake manifold air intake tube (above
injection pump) and its rubber connector hose (Fig.
7).
(3) Remove accessory drive belt.
(4) Thoroughly clean the rear of injection pump,
and attachment points for its 3 fuel lines (Fig. 8).
Also clean the opposite ends of these same 3 lines at
their attachment points.
(5) Disconnect Fuel Control Actuator (FCA) electri-
cal connector at rear of injection pump (Fig. 9).
CAUTION: Whenever a fuel line fitting is connected
to a secondary fitting, always use a back-up wrench
on the secondary fitting. Do not allow the second-
ary fitting to rotate.
(6) Remove fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel pres-
sure limiting valve).
(7) Remove fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel rail).
Use back-up wrench on fitting at fuel pump.
(8) Remove fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel filter
housing).
(9) Remove fuel pump drive gear access cover
(plate) with a 3/8º drive ratchet. Plate is threaded to
timing gear cover (Fig. 10).
(10) Remove fuel pump drive gear mounting nut
and washer.
(11) Attach C3428B, or L4407A (or equivalent)
gear puller (Fig. 11) to pump drive gear with 2 bolts,
and separate gear from pump (a keyway is not used
on this particular injection pump). Leave drive gear
hanging loose within timing gear cover.
(12) Remove 3 injection pump mounting nuts (Fig.
12), and remove pump from engine.
Fig. 7 INTAKE TUBE AND CONNECTING HOSE
1 - MANIFOLD ABOVE HEATERS
2 - RUBBER CONNECTING HOSE
3 - METAL INTAKE TUBE
4 - CLAMPS (2)
Fig. 8 OVERFLOW VALVE
1 - BANJO BOLTS
2 - PUMP MOUNTING NUTS (3)
3 - FUEL INJECTION PUMP
4 - CASCADE OVERFLOW VALVE
14 - 54 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL INJECTION PUMP (Continued)

This will ensure proper gear-to-shaft tighten-
ing.
(5) Clean pump gear and pump shaft at machined
tapers with an evaporative type cleaner such as
brake cleaner.
(6) Position injection pump to mounting flange on
gear housing while aligning injection pump shaft
through back of injection pump gear.
(7) After pump is positioned flat to mounting
flange, install 3 pump mounting nuts and tighten
finger tight only.Do not attempt a final tightening
at this time.Do not attempt to tighten (pull)
pump to gear housing using mounting nuts.
Damage to pump or gear cover may occur. The
pump must be positioned flat to its mounting
flange before attempting to tighten 3 mounting
nuts.
(8) To prevent damage or cracking of components,
install and tighten nuts in the following sequence:
(a) Install injection pump shaft washer and nut
to pump shaft. Tighten nutfinger tight only.
(b) Do preliminary (light) tightening of injection
pump shaft nut.
(c) Tighten 3 injection pump mounting nuts to
24 N´m (18 ft. lbs.).(d) Do a final tightening of pump shaft nut to
105 N´m (77 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install drive gear access cover (plate) using a
3/8º drive ratchet. Plate is threaded to timing gear
cover. Tighten to 8 N´m (71 in. lbs.) torque.
(10) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-pressure
limiting valve). Tighten bolts to 24 N´m (18 ft. lbs.)
torque.
(11) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel rail).
(a) Tighten fitting at fuel pump to 37 N´m (27 ft.
lbs.) torque. Use a back-up wrench.
(b) Tighten fitting at fuel rail to 37 N´m (27 ft.
lbs.) torque.
(12) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel filter
housing). Tighten to 24 N´m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(13) Connect Fuel Control Actuator (FCA) electri-
cal connector to rear of injection pump.
(14) Install intake manifold air intake tube (above
injection pump). Tighten clamps.
(15) Install accessory drive belt.
(16) Install cooling fan shroud.
(17) Install cooling fan assembly.
(18) Connect both negative battery cables to both
batteries.
(19) Check system for fuel or engine oil leaks.
Fig. 12 FUEL INJECTION PUMP REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
1 - PUMP DRIVE GEAR NUT
2 - WASHER
3 - PUMP DRIVE GEAR
4 - RUBBER O-RING
5 - FUEL INJECTION PUMP6 - PUMP MOUNTING NUTS (3)
7 - PUMP MOUNTING STUDS (3)
8 - O-RING MACHINED GROOVE
9 - FRONT TIMING GEAR HOUSING
14 - 56 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL INJECTION PUMP (Continued)

FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel tank module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel tank module on diesel powered models
has 2 different circuits (wires). Two of these circuits
are used at the fuel gauge sending unit for fuel
gauge operation. The diesel engine does not have a
fuel tank module mounted electric fuel pump. The
electric fuel pump (fuel transfer pump) is mounted to
the engine.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant input
voltage source of about 12 volts (battery voltage) is
supplied to the resistor track on the fuel gauge send-
ing unit. This is fed directly from the Engine Control
Module (ECM).NOTE: For diagnostic purposes,
this 12V power source can only be verified with
the circuit opened (fuel tank module electrical
connector unplugged). With the connectors
plugged, output voltages will vary from about .6
volts at FULL, to about 7.0 volts at EMPTY.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 ECM
through the sensor return circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the ECM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the ECM, the ECM
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.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
For diesel removal and installation procedures,
refer to the gas section of Fuel System/Fuel Delivery.
See Fuel Level Sending Unit/Sensor Removal/Instal-
lation.
FUEL LINES
DESCRIPTION
Low-Pressure Lines Are:
²the fuel supply line from fuel tank to fuel trans-
fer (lift) pump.
²the fuel return line back to fuel tank.
²the fuel drain (manifold) line at rear of cylinder
head.
²the fuel supply line from fuel filter to fuel injec-
tion pump.
²the fuel injection pump return line.
High-Pressure Lines Are:
²the fuel line from fuel injection pump to fuel
rail.
²the 6 fuel lines from fuel rail up to injector con-
nector tubes
WARNING: HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LINES DELIVER
DIESEL FUEL UNDER EXTREME PRESSURE FROM
THE INJECTION PUMP TO THE FUEL INJECTORS.
THIS MAY BE AS HIGH AS 160,000 KPA (23,206
PSI). USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN INSPECTING
FOR HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS. INSPECT FOR
HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL LEAKS WITH A SHEET OF
CARDBOARD. HIGH FUEL INJECTION PRESSURE
CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY IF CONTACT IS
MADE WITH THE SKIN.
OPERATION
High-Pressure Lines
CAUTION: The high-pressure fuel lines must be
held securely in place in their holders. The lines
cannot contact each other or other components. Do
not attempt to weld high-pressure fuel lines or to
repair lines that are damaged. If lines are ever
kinked or bent, they must be replaced. Use only the
recommended lines when replacement of high-pres-
sure fuel line is necessary.
High-pressure fuel lines deliver fuel (under pres-
sure) of up to approximately 160,000 kPa (23,206
PSI) from the injection pump to the fuel injectors.
The lines expand and contract from the high-pres-
sure fuel pulses generated during the injection pro-
cess. All high-pressure fuel lines are of the same
length and inside diameter. Correct high-pressure
fuel line usage and installation is critical to smooth
engine operation.
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 57

FUEL TANK MODULE
DESCRIPTION
An electric fuel pump isnot usedin the fuel tank
module for diesel powered engines. Fuel is supplied
by the engine mounted fuel transfer (lift) pump.
The fuel tank module is installed in the top of the
fuel tank (Fig. 21). The fuel tank module contains
the following components:
²Fuel reservoir
²A separate in-tank fuel filter
²Fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor)
²Fuel supply line connection
²Fuel return line connection
²Auxiliary non-pressurized fitting
OPERATION
Refer to Fuel Gauge Sending Unit.
REMOVAL
(1) Drain and remove fuel tank. Refer to Fuel
Tank Removal/Installation.
(2) Thoroughly clean area around tank module at
top of tank.
(3) The plastic fuel tank module locknut is
threaded onto fuel tank. Install Special Tool 6856 to
locknut and remove locknut (Fig. 22). The fuel tank
module will spring up when locknut is removed.
(4) Remove module from fuel tank.
Fig. 20 FUEL TANK MOUNTING
1 - FUEL TANK
2 - STRAP MOUNTING STUDS
3 - VEHICLE FRAME4 - MOUNTING STRAPS
5 - STRAP NUTS
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 63
FUEL TANK (Continued)

INSTALLATION
CAUTION: Whenever the fuel tank module is ser-
viced, the rubber gasket must be replaced.
(1) Thoroughly clean locknut and locknut threads
at top of tank.(2) Using new gasket, carefully position fuel tank
module into opening in fuel tank.
(3) Position locknut over top of fuel tank module.
Install locknut finger tight.
(4) When looking down at tank from drivers side of
tank, the fuel line connectors and fuel gauge electri-
cal connector should all be pointed to drivers side of
vehicle. Rotate and align if necessary before tighten-
ing locknut.This step must be performed to pre-
vent the module's float from contacting side of
fuel tank.
(5) Tighten locknut to 24 - 44 N´m (18 - 32 ft. lbs.)
torque.
(6) Install fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Removal/
Installation.
FUEL TRANSFER PUMP
DESCRIPTION
The fuel transfer pump (fuel lift pump) is attached
to the rear of the fuel filter/water separator housing.
The 12±volt electric pump is operated and controlled
by the Engine Control Module (ECM).
OPERATION
The purpose of the fuel transfer pump is to supply
(transfer) a low-pressure fuel source:fromthe fuel
tank,throughthe fuel filter/water separator andto
the fuel injection pump. Here, the low-pressure is
raised to a high-pressure by the fuel injection pump
for operation of the high-pressure fuel injectors.
Check valves within the pump, control direction of
fuel flow and prevent fuel bleed-back during engine
shut down.
Maximum current flow to the pump is 5 amperes.
With the engine running, the pump has a 100 per-
cent duty-cycle.
The transfer pump is self-priming: When the key is
first turned on (without cranking engine), the pump
will operate for approximately 2 seconds and then
shut off. The pump will also operate for up to 25 sec-
onds after the starter is engaged, and then disen-
gaged and the engine is not running. The pump
shuts off immediately if the key is on and the engine
stops running.
The fuel volume of the transfer pump will always
provide more fuel than the fuel injection pump
requires. Excess fuel is returned from the injection
pump through an overflow valve, and then back to
the fuel tank.
REMOVAL
The fuel transfer pump (fuel lift pump) is attached
to the rear of the fuel filter/water separator housing
(Fig. 23).
Fig. 21 FUEL TANK MODULE - DIESEL
1 - TOP OF FUEL TANK
2 - AUX. FITTING
3 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
4 - FUEL TANK MODULE (TOP)
5 - LOCKNUT
6 - FUEL SUPPLY LINE
7 - FUEL RETURN LINE
Fig. 22 LOCKNUT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION -
TYPICAL MODULE
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6856
2 - LOCKNUT
14 - 64 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL TANK MODULE (Continued)

(1) Drain fuel from fuel filter housing. Refer to
Fuel Filter/Water Separator - Removal. See Draining.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector (Fig. 23) from
fuel transfer pump.
(3) Disconnect fuel tank supply line from fuel
transfer pump extension line. This is done at discon-
nection point at inside of left inner frame rail (Fig.
24). Refer to quick-connect fittings for procedures.
(4) Remove 4 pump mounting bolts (hex-allen),
and remove pump from fuel filter housing.
(5) Confirm that transfer pump o-ring is also
removed from fuel filter housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new o-ring to fuel transfer pump.
(2) Lubricate o-ring and OD of transfer pump inlet
connector.
(3) Position fuel transfer pump onto fuel filter
housing.Do not use mounting bolts to draw
transfer pump to filter housing.
(4) Be sure pump is positioned flat to fuel filter
housing. Install mounting bolts and evenly tighten to
7 N´m (61 in. lbs.).
(5) Connect fuel line extension at fuel supply line.
(6) Connect electrical connector to pump.
(7)Prime System:Cycle key to actuate transfer
pump, or use DRB Scan Tool to actuate transfer
pump. Check for leaks.
(8) Operate engine and check for fuel leaks.
Fig. 23 FUEL TRANSFER (LIFT) PUMP
1 - FILTER HOUSING
2 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
3 - FUEL TRANSFER (LIFT) PUMP
4 - FUEL LINE EXTENTION
5 - MOUNTING BOLTS (4)
Fig. 24 TRANSFER PUMP FUEL LINE CONNECT
1 - LEFT INNER FRAME RAIL
2 - FUEL RETURN LINE
3 - FUEL SUPPLY LINE
4 - QUICK-CONNECT FITTING
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 65
FUEL TRANSFER PUMP (Continued)