1999 DODGE RAM Ignition system

junction block. See WIRING DIAGRAMS.
4) Turn ignition off. Disconnect negative battery cable.
Disconnect parking brake switch connector. Switch is located at base
of parking brake lever. Ensure parking brake lever is released. Check
continuity between ground and parking brake switch terminal. If
continuity does not exist, go to next step. If continuity exists,
adjust or replace parking brake switch.
5) Ensure parking brake switch is still disconnected. Turn
ignition off. Remove instrument cluster. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER under
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Check continuity between ground and park brake
switch connector. If continuity does not exist, go to next step. If
continuity exists, repair short to ground between instrument cluster
and park brake switch.
6) Check continuity between park brake switch connector and
instrument cluster connector C1, terminal No. 3 (White/Pink wire on
Ram Van and Ram Wagon; White/Light Green wire on Ram Pickup). See
Fig. 1. If continuity does not exist, repair open circuit. See WIRING
DIAGRAMS. If continuity exists, see PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS under SELF-
DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM.
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) LIGHT INOPERATIVE (RAM PICKUP)
1) Remove and inspect fuse No. 17 (10-amp) in junction block\
.
Junction block is located at left end cover of instrument panel. If
fuse is okay, go to next step. If fuse is blown, locate and repair
cause of blown fuse. Install new fuse and recheck system operation.
2) Turn ignition on. Measure voltage between ground and power
side of fuse No. 17. If battery voltage is present, go to next step.
If battery voltage is not present, locate and repair open circuit
between ignition switch and junction block.
3) Turn ignition off. Disconnect negative battery cable.
Disconnect 4WD switch connector. 4WD switch connector is located at
right side of front axle. Check continuity between 4WD switch
connector Black wire and ground. If continuity does not exist, repair
open Black wire between 4WD switch and ground. If continuity exists,
go to next step.
4) Reconnect battery cable. Turn ignition on. Install jumper
wire between 4WD switch connector terminals. 4WD light should
illuminate. If light illuminates, replace 4WD switch. If light does
not illuminate, go to next step.
5) Turn ignition off. Disconnect negative battery cable.
Ensure 4WD switch is still disconnected. Remove instrument cluster.
See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Check continuity
between ground and instrument cluster connector C2 terminal No. 10
(Gray wire). See Fig. 1. If continuity does not exist, go to next
step. If continuity exists, repair short to ground in wire between
instrument cluster and 4WD switch.
6) Check continuity of wire between 4WD switch connector and
terminal No. 10 at instrument cluster connector C2. If continuity does
not exist, repair open wire. If continuity exists, replace bulb.
LOW WASHER FLUID LIGHT INOPERATIVE
1) Remove and inspect fuse No. 17 (10-amp) on Ram Pickup or
fuse No. 11 (10-amp) on Ram Van and Ram Wagon in junction block.
Junction block is located at left end cover of instrument panel. If
fuse is okay, go to next step. If fuse is blown, locate and repair
cause of blown fuse. Install new fuse and recheck system operation.
2) Turn ignition on. Measure voltage between ground and power
side of fuse No. 14 (10-amp) on Ram Pickup or fuse No. 11 (10-amp) o\
n
Ram Van and Ram Wagon. If battery voltage is present, go to next step.
If battery voltage is not present, locate and repair open circuit
between ignition switch and junction block.

3) Turn ignition off. Disconnect washer fluid level sensor
connector. Install jumper wire between washer fluid level sensor
connector terminals. Turn ignition on. Low washer fluid level light
should illuminate. Disconnect jumper wire and light should go off. If
light performs as specified, replace washer fluid level sensor. If
light does not perform as specified, go to next step.
4) Turn ignition off. Check continuity between ground and
washer fluid level sensor connector Black wire. If continuity does not
exist, repair open Black wire between washer fluid level sensor and
ground. If continuity exists, go to next step.
5) Ensure washer fluid level sensor is still disconnected.
Turn ignition off. Remove instrument cluster. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Check continuity between ground and
instrument cluster connector C2 terminal No. 2 (Black/White wire) on
Ram Pickup and terminal No. 9 (Black/Gray wire) on Ram Van and Ram
Wagon. If continuity does not exist, go to next step. If continuity
exists, repair short to ground in White/Black or Black/Gray wire
between instrument cluster and washer fluid level sensor.
6) Check continuity of Black/White wire on Ram Pickup or
Black/Gray wire on Ram Van and Ram Wagon between washer fluid level
sensor connector and instrument cluster connector C2 terminal No. 2 on
Ram Pickup or terminal No. 9 on Ram Van and Ram Wagon. See Fig. 1. If
continuity does not exist, repair open Black/White wire on Ram Pickup
or Black/Gray wire on Ram Van and Ram Wagon. If continuity exists,
replace bulb.
WAIT-TO-START LIGHT INOPERATIVE (RAM PICKUP - DIESEL)
1) Remove and inspect fuse No. 17 (10-amp) in junction block\
.
Junction block is located at left end cover of instrument panel. If
fuse is okay, go to next step. If fuse is blown, locate and repair
cause of blown fuse. Install new fuse and recheck system operation.
2) Turn ignition on. Measure voltage between ground and power
side of fuse No. 17. If battery voltage is present, go to next step.
If battery voltage is not present, locate and repair open circuit
between Power Distribution Center (PDC) and junction block.
3) Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove instrument
cluster. See INSTRUMENT CLUSTER under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Check
for battery voltage between ground and instrument cluster connector C1
terminal No. 2 (Dark Blue/White wire). See Fig. 1. Turn ignition on.
If battery voltage exists, go to next step. If battery voltage does
not exist, repair open Dark Blue/White wire between junction block and
instrument cluster.
4) Turn ignition off. Disconnect Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) White connector C2. PCM is located at firewall in right side of
engine compartment. Connector C2 is center connector. Check continuity
between ground and instrument cluster connector C1 terminal No. 8
(Orange/Black wire). If continuity does not exist, go to next step. If\
continuity exists, repair short to ground in Orange/Black wire between
instrument cluster and ground.
5) Install instrument cluster. Connect battery cable. Install
jumper wire between PCM White connector C2 terminal No. 20
(Orange/Black wire) and ground. See Fig. 2. Turn ignition on. Wait-to-
start light should illuminate. If wait-to-start light illuminates, see
appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE section. If
wait-to-start light does not illuminate, see SELF-DIAGNOSTICS.

CAUTION: Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air
bag system, steering column or passenger side dash
component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON
position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of
accidental air bag inflation
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING
WARNING: Avoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors,
exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove
R-134a from system use R-134a recycling equipment that meets
SAE J2210 specifications. If accidental system discharge
occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service.
WARNING: R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT
be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some
mixtures of air/R134a have shown to be combustible at
elevated pressures. These mixtures are dangerous and may
cause fire and/or explosions. See AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE
article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.
AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE
WARNING: NEVER add A/C refrigerant to correct a non-cooling problem
unless pressure gauges are connected to the system by a
certified technician. Lack of cooling may be caused by a
restriction, therefore adding refrigerant can cause a
dangerous pressure rise.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
CAUTION: The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that
can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly
installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since
this interference could cause the possible loss of the
antilock braking capability, such equipment should be
installed by qualified professionals.
On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS
observe the following cautions:
* DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first
referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article
in the BRAKES Section.
* DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the
original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable.
Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some
manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and
type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate
wheel speed readings.
* Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake
fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID SERVICE
WARNING: Make certain no fluid is spilled when the transaxle fluid
is inspected. Wipe up any spilled fluid completely.
AXLE FLUID
CAUTION: Axle lubricant should be changed whenever the axle has

been submerged in water. Water can enter through the axle
vent hole and contaminate the lubricant.
BATTERY WARNING
WARNING: When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with
computers may lose memory data. When battery power is
restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles.
These vehicles may require a relearn procedure.
WARNING: Batteries produce flammable hydrogen gas. Keep flames and
sparks away from the battery or and explosion may occur.
Never smoke when working in the vicinity of the battery.
WARNING: When checking or servicing the battery, disconnect the
negative cable. Be careful not to cause a short circuit by
allowing metal objects to contact the battery posts and the
vehicle at the same time.
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
CAUTION: Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off
all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical
system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated
amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse
may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning
that brake pads need replacement.
BRAKE HOSES
WARNING: Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure. If
any sign of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots are found,
replace the brake hoses immediately.
BRAKE FLUID
WARNING: The use of incorrect fluid in the brake system may cause
damage to components. DO NOT use any fluid other than DOT-3
brake fluid. DO NOT use reclaimed fluid or fluid that has
been stored in old or open containers. It is essential that
foreign particles and other liquids are kept out of the
brake fluid reservoir.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
CAUTION: Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction
could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible
damage to converter and vehicle.
COOLANT
CAUTION: To avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol
based coolants with a mixture ratio from 50-70% anti-freeze.
DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation
of cooling system deposits.
DIESEL FUEL ANTI-FUNGAL ADDITIVES

CAUTION: If fuel contamination due to fungi or other microorganisms is
suspected a fuel additive with a biocide may be used. Follow
the manufacturers dosage as recommended on product label. Use
biocides ONLY when necessary, excessive use can may cause
other fuel system problems.
DIESEL FUEL CONTAMINATION
WARNING: Diesel fuel system may be contaminated with fungi or other
microorganisms. Keep contaminated fuel away from open skin
cuts or sores to prevent skin irritation or infection.
DIESEL FUEL REQUIREMENTS
CAUTION: All diesel engines have been developed to take advantage of
the high energy content of No. 2 diesel fuel or No. 2
climatized-diesel fuels. It also operates on No. 1-diesel
fuels if temperatures are expected to be extended arctic
conditions -10
\bF (-23\bC).
WARNING: Do NOT use alcohol or gasoline as a fuel blending agent. They
can be unstable under certain conditions and hazardous or
explosive when mixed with diesel fuel.
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
WARNING: Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by
static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label,
but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by
touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to
servicing any ESD sensitive component.
ENGINE OIL
CAUTION: Never use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.
ENGINE OIL FILTER (CARTRIDGE TYPE)
CAUTION: Use of Mopar Oil Filter Cartridge (P/N 04746914) is
RECOMMENDED. The engine oil filter cartridge should be
changed at every engine oil change. Use the same type oil
that will be used in the engine.
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE
WARNING: Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel
system component (fuel injection models).
HALOGEN BULBS
WARNING: Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if
overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare
hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working
around halogen bulbs.
RADIATOR CAP
CAUTION: Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the
radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could
start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF
position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling
system is hot.

Fig. 20: Underhood Power Distribution Center
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
WARNING: Always disconnect battery ground cable before servicing
"high-current fuses. It is recommended that "high-current"
fuses be replaced by a qualified technician.
Power Distribution Center Relay & Fuse Identification
A - Starter Relay
B - Trailer Lights Relay
C - Auto Transmission Relay
D - Anti-Lock Brake System Relay
E - Auto Shutdown Relay
F - Air Conditioning Clutch Relay
G - Horn Relay
H - Fuel System Relay
J - ABS Warning Light Relay
K - Fog Lamp 2 Relay
L - Fog Lamp 1 Relay
1 - 30 Amp (Pink)
Engine Control
2 - 40 Amp (Green)
Ignition Run/Accessory
3 - 40 Amp (Green)
Ignition Run
4 - 50 Amp (Red)
Instrument Panel, Horn, Parking Lights
5 - 20 Amp (Blue)
Fuel Pump
6 - 30 Amp (Pink)
Trailer Lights
7 - 40 Amp (Green)
Stop/Headlight
8 - 40 Amp (Green)
ABS Pump
9 - 20 Amp (Yellow)
Hazard Lights
10 - 20 Amp (Yellow)
Horn/AC
11 - 15 Amp (Blue)

2) Apply voltage to Light Blue/Yellow wire at heated mirror
and ground Black wire at heated mirror. Mirror should become warm to
touch. If mirror is not warm to touch, remove mirror and test wires
for continuity. If no continuity exists, repair wires. If wires are
okay, replace mirror. To test defogger switch, see appropriate wiring
diagram in REAR WINDOW DEFOGGERS article.
NOTE: On Ram Pickup, heated mirror is controlled by mirror defogger
switch.
Ram Pickup
1) Turn ignition on. While watching instrument panel
voltmeter, turn heated mirror switch on. Voltmeter needle should
deflect. With heated mirror on, mirror should be warm to touch after
3-4 minutes. If system operates as described, system is okay at this
time.
2) If system does not operate as described, go to next step.
Illuminated indicator light means only that voltage exists at heated
mirror relay.
3) Ensure ignition is on. Check fuses in Power Distribution
Center (PDC) and junction block. Ensure fuses are fully seated and
connections are secure. If mirrors are still inoperative, problem is
in heated mirror control, mirror heating grid and/or heated mirror
harness or connectors. If turning switch on causes a large deflection
in instrument panel voltmeter, check for a short circuit in system.
Repair as necessary.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
CAUTION: When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory
systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist
until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See
COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION
before disconnecting battery.
HEATED MIRROR SWITCH
Removal & Installation (Ram Pickup)
Heated mirror switch is part of HVAC control unit. See
appropriate AUTOMATIC A/C-HEATER SYSTEMS article in appropriate AIR
CONDITIONING & HEATING SERVICE & REPAIR section.
POWER MIRROR SWITCH
Removal & Installation (Caravan, Town & Country, & Voyager)
1) Remove cover from over steering column. Remove screws
holding instrument cluster bezel to dash (above cluster lens). Remove
screws holding instrument cluster bezel to dash from each side of
steering column. Disconnect clip holding instrument cluster bezel to
dash from above right vent louver.
2) Separate instrument cluster bezel from dash. Disconnect
wires from back of bezel. Disengage lock tabs above and below mirror
switch. Pull mirror switch from headlight switch bezel. To install,
reverse removal procedure.
Removal & Installation (Dakota & Durango)
1) Pull power mirror switch control knob rearward to remove
it from switch body. Remove nut securing switch to door trim panel.
Pull door latch handle to open position and remove screw securing trim
panel to door. Remove manual window crank handle, if equipped. Release
locking tab on power window/lock switch, if equipped. Remove power
window/lock switch and unplug connector.

PA R ASIT IC L O AD E XPLA N ATIO N & T E ST P R O CED URES

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
GENERAL INFORMATION
Parasitic Load Explanation & Test Procedures
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
This article is provided for general information only. Not
all procedures apply to all makes and models.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The term Parasitic Load refers to electrical devices that
continue to use or draw current after the ignition switch is turned to
OFF position. This small amount of continuous battery draw is
expressed in milliamps (mA). On Ford Motor Co. and General Motors
vehicles produced after 1980, a typical Parasitic Load should be no
more than 50 milliamps (0.050 amps).
Vehicles produced since 1980 have memory devices that draw
current with ignition off for as long as 20 minutes before shutting
down the Parasitic Drain. When Parasitic Load exceeds normal
specifications, the vehicle may exhibit dead battery and no-start
condition.
Follow test procedure for checking Parasitic Loads to
completion. A brief overview of a suggested test procedure is included
along with some typical Parasitic Load specifications. Refer to the
GENERAL MOTORS PARASITIC LOAD TABLE chart.
TESTING FOR PARASITIC LOAD
INTRODUCTION
CAUTION: Always turn ignition off when connecting or disconnecting
battery cables, battery chargers or jumper cables. DO NOT
turn test switch to OFF position (which causes current to run
through ammeter or vehicle electrical system).
NOTE: Memory functions of various accessories must be reset after
the battery is reconnected.
The battery circuit must be opened to connect test switch
(shunt) and ammeter into the circuit. When a battery cable is removed,\
timer circuits within the vehicle computer are interrupted and
immediately begin to discharge. If in doubt about the condition of the
ammeter fuse, test it with an ohmmeter prior to beginning test. An
open fuse will show the same reading (00.00) as no parasitic drain.
Begin test sequence with the meter installed and on the 10-amp scale.
Select lower scale to read parasitic draw.
TEST PROCEDURE USING TEST SWITCH
1) Turn ignition off. Remove negative battery terminal cable.
Install Disconnect Tool (J-38758) test switch male end to negative
battery cable. Turn test switch knob to OFF position (current through
meter). Install negative battery cable to the female end of test
switch.
2) Turn test switch knob to ON position (current through
switch). Road test vehicle with vehicle accessories on (radio, air
conditioner, etc.). After road test, turn ignition switch to LOCKED
position and remove key. Connect ammeter terminals to test switch