1999 DODGE RAM low oil pressure

Fig. 17: Cross-Sectional View Of Engine Oil Circuit
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
OIL LINE PLUG
1) The oil line plug is located in vertical passage in rear
of block between oil-to-filter and oil-from-filter passages. See
Fig. 18 . Missing or improperly installed plug could cause erratic, low
or no oil pressure.
2) To check installation, remove oil sending unit and insert
wire down passage. Oil line plug should be 7.50-7.68 in. (190.0-195.2
mm) from machined surface of block. If plug is too high, use suitable
dowel to position properly. If plug is too low, remove oil pan, oil
pump and rear main bearing cap. Use suitable dowel to position
properly.
3) To remove for passage cleaning or plug replacement, drive
plug from oil sending unit hole out bottom of block. When installing

than .010" (.25 mm) from tip. Chamfer sharp edge of reground valve
tip. Recheck valve stem installed height.
VALVE STEM OIL SEALS
Valve stem oil seals must be installed on valve stem. See
Fig. 2 . Seals are needed due to pressure differential at the ends of
valve guides. Atmospheric pressure above intake guide, combined with
manifold vacuum below guide, causes oil to be drawn into the cylinder.
Exhaust guides also have pressure differential created by
exhaust gas flowing past the guide, creating a low pressure area. This
low pressure area draws oil into the exhaust system.
Replacement (On Vehicle)
Mark rocker arm or overhead cam components for location.
Remove rocker arm components or overhead cam components. Components
must be installed in original location. Remove spark plugs. Valve stem
oil seals may be replaced by holding valves against seats using air
pressure.
Air pressure must be installed in cylinder using an adapter
for spark plug hole. An adapter can be constructed by welding air hose
connection to spark plug body with porcelain removed.
Install adapter in spark plug hole. Apply a minimum of 140
psi (9.8 kg/cm
) to adapter. Air pressure should hold valve closed. If
air pressure does not hold valve closed, check for damaged or bent
valve. Cylinder head must be removed for service.
Using valve spring compressor, compress valve springs. Remove
valve locks. Carefully release spring compressor. Remove retainer or
rotator and valve spring. Remove valve stem oil seal.
If oversized valves have been installed, oversized oil seals
must be used. Coat valve stem with engine oil. Install protective
sleeve over end of valve stem. Install new oil seal over valve stem
and seat on valve guide. Remove protective sleeve. Install spring
seat, valve spring and retainer or rotator. Compress spring and
install valve locks. Remove spring compressor. Ensure valve locks
are fully seated.
Install rocker arms or overhead cam components. Tighten all
bolts to specification. Adjust valves if required. Remove adapter.
Install spark plugs, valve cover and gasket.
VALVE SPRING INSTALLED HEIGHT
Valve spring installed height should be checked during
reassembly. Measure height from lower edge of valve spring to the
upper edge. DO NOT include valve spring seat or retainer. Distance
must be within specifications. If valves and/or seats have been
ground, a valve spring shim may be required to correct spring height.
See Fig. 12 .
Fig. 12: Measuring Valve Spring Installed Height - Typical
This Graphic For General Information Only

Engine pre-oiling can be done using pressure oiler (if
available). Connect pressure oiler to cylinder block oil passage
such as oil pressure sending unit. Operate pressure oiler long enough
to ensure correct amount of oil has filled crankcase. Check oil level
while pre-oiling.
If pressure oiler is not available, disconnect ignition
system. Remove oil pressure sending unit and replace with oil pressure
test gauge. Using starter motor, rotate engine starter until gauge
shows normal oil pressure for several seconds. DO NOT crank engine
for more than 30 seconds to avoid starter motor damage.
Ensure oil pressure has reached the most distant point from
the oil pump. Reinstall oil pressure sending unit. Reconnect ignition
system.
INITIAL START-UP
Start the engine and operate engine at low speed while
checking for coolant, fuel and oil leaks. Stop engine. Recheck coolant
and oil level. Adjust if necessary.
CAMSHAFT
Break-in procedure is required when a new or reground
camshaft has been installed. Operate and maintain engine speed between
1500-2500 RPM for approximately 30 minutes. Procedure may vary due to
manufacturers recommendations.
PISTON RINGS
Piston rings require a break-in procedure to ensure seating
of rings to cylinder walls. Serious damage may occur to rings if
correct procedures are not followed.
Extremely high piston ring temperatures are produced obtained
during break-in process. If rings are exposed to excessively high RPM
or high cylinder pressures, ring damage can occur. Follow piston ring
manufacturer's recommended break-in procedure.
FINAL ADJUSTMENTS
Check or adjust ignition timing and dwell (if applicable).
Adjust valves (if necessary). Adjust carburetion or injection idle
speed and mixture. Retighten cylinder heads (if required). If
cylinder head or block is aluminum, retighten bolts when engine is
cold. Follow the engine manufacturer's recommended break-in procedure
and maintenance schedule for new engines.
NOTE: Some manufacturer's require that head bolts be retightened
after specified amount of operation. This must be done to
prevent head gasket failure.

FUEL TANKS
GAS CAPS
GASKETS
GROMMETS (VALVE COVER)
HARMONIC DAMPERS
HEATER CONTROL VALVES
HEATER CORES
HOSE AND TUBE COUPLERS, CONNECTORS AND CLAMPS
HOSE CLAMPS
HOSE CONNECTORS
HOSE COUPLERS
HOSES AND TUBES (FUEL LINES, RADIATOR, VACUUM, BY PASS,
HEATER, RECOVERY TANK AND OIL COOLERS)
HOUSINGS
IDLE AIR CONTROLS
IDLE SPEED CONTROL ACTUATORS
IGNITION BOOTS
IGNITION COIL TOWERS
IGNITION COILS
IGNITION CONTROL MODULES (ICM)
IGNITION SWITCHES
IGNITION TERMINALS
IGNITION WIRES, BOOTS, COIL TOWERS AND TERMINALS (SECONDARY)
IN-TANK FUEL STRAINERS
INERTIA FUEL SHUT-OFF SWITCHES
INTAKE AIR TEMPERATURE SENSORS
INTAKE MANIFOLDS
INTERCOOLERS
KNOCK SENSORS
LIQUID VAPOR SEPARATORS
MANIFOLD ABSOLUTE PRESSURE (MAP) SENSORS
MASS AIR FLOW (MAF) SENSORS
METAL AIR MANIFOLDS AND PIPES
METAL AIR PIPES
MIX CONTROL SOLENOIDS
MOTOR MOUNTS
O-RINGS, GASKETS, SEALS AND SPRING LOCKS
O2 SENSORS
OIL PRESSURE SENDING UNITS
OIL PUMP PICK-UP SCREENS
OIL PUMPS
PARK NEUTRAL POSITION SWITCHES
PCV BREATHER ELEMENTS
PCV ORIFICES
PCV VALVES
PICK-UP ASSEMBLIES (INCLUDES MAGNETIC, HALL EFFECT AND
OPTICAL)
POWER STEERING PRESSURE SENSORS
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCM) AND PROM
POWERTRAIN CONTROL PROM
PRESSURIZED EXPANSION TANK CAPS
RADIATOR CAPS AND PRESSURIZED EXPANSION TANK CAPS
RADIATOR FAN BLADES
RADIATOR FAN CLUTCHES
RADIATORS
ROLL OVER VALVES
SEALING COMPOUNDS
SEALS
SECONDARY AIR INJECTION SYSTEM MANAGEMENT DEVICES
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS
SHROUDS, BAFFLES AND DEFLECTORS
SPARK PLUGS
SPRING LOCKS

Starters
Generator .................................. Generators & Regulators
Engine Performance
Power Distribution
Generic Electronic Module (GEM) ............... Body Control Modules\
Electronic Suspension
Glow Plug Relay ................................. Engine Performance
Glow Plugs ...................................... Engine Performance
Grounds ........................................ Ground Distribution
Headlight Door Module .............................. Headlight Doors
Headlight Relay .................................. Headlight Systems
Daytime Running Lights
Headlights ....................................... Headlight Systems
Daytime Running Lights
Heated Oxygen Sensor(s) (HO2S) .................. Engine Performan\
ce
Heated Windshield Control Module ................ Heated Windshields
Height Sensor ................................ Electronic Suspension
Horns ..................................... Steering Column Switches
Horn Relay ................................ Steering Column Switches
Idle Air Control (IAC) Motor/Valve .............. Engine Performance\
Ignition Coil(s) ................................ Engine Performance\
Ignition Key Lock Cylinder ....................... Anti-Theft System
Ignition Module ................................. Engine Performance
Ignition Switch ................................. Power Distribution
Engine Performance
Generators & Regulators
Starters
Illuminated Entry Module .............. Illumination/Interior Lights
Illumination Lights ................... Illumination/Interior Lights
Impact Sensor ............................. Air Bag Restraint System
Inertia Fuel Shutoff Switch ..................... Engine Performance
Inhibit Relay ............................................. Starters
Instrument Cluster ........................ Analog Instrument Panels
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor ............. Engine Performance\
Interior Lights ....................... Illumination/Interior Lights
Interlock Switch .......................................... Starters
Junction Block .................................. Power Distribution
Keyless Entry Receiver ........................ Remote Keyless Entry
Key Reminder Switch ....................................... Starters
Knock Sensor .................................... Engine Performance
Lamp Control Module ................................ Exterior Lights
License Plate Lamp ................................. Exterior Lights
Lighting Control Module ................... Lighting Control Modules
Anti-Theft System
Daytime Running Lights
Headlight Systems
Lower Relay .................................. Power Convertible Top
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) ............... Engine Performance\
Instrument Panels
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor ......... Engine Performance\
Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor ....................... Engine Performance\
Mega Fuse .................................. Generators & Regulators
Memory Seat/Mirror Module ........................... Memory Systems
Mirror Defogger ............................... Rear Window Defogger
Moon Roof Motor .................................... Power Moon Roof
Moon Roof Relay .................................... Power Moon Roof
Multi-Function Control Module ...................... Warning Systems
Neutral Safety Switch ..................................... Starters
Oil Level Switch ................................ Engine Performance
Oil Pressure Switch/Sending Unit .......... Analog Instrument Panels
Engine Performance
Overhead Console .................................. Overhead Console
Oxygen Sensor(s) (O2S) .......................... Engine Performan\
ce


IN STR UM EN T P A N EL - A N ALO G

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1999 ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT
CHRY - Analog Instrument Panels
Ram Pickup, Ram Van & Ram Wagon
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
All instrument cluster gauges are air core magnetic type.
Tachometer is optional. All gauges use data transferred on Chrysler
Collision Detection (CCD) bus. Instrument cluster incorporates a
Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) for odometer display.
Brake warning light illuminates when ignition is on and
parking brake is applied. Brake warning light also illuminates if
brake hydraulic system failure occurs during service brake
application. Brake warning light bulb test occurs when ignition switch
is in START position.
Oil pressure warning light illuminates when engine oil
pressure is not sufficient to open oil pressure sending unit switch.
Oil pressure warning light bulb test occurs with ignition switch in
RUN position.
All instrument clusters include these analog gauges:
* Coolant Temperature Gauge
* Fuel Gauge
* Oil Pressure Gauge
* Speedometer
* Voltmeter
Instrument clusters include these indicator lights, if
vehicle is equipped with appropriate option:
* Air Bag
* Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
* Brake Warning
* Check Gauges
* Cruise On
* Headlight High Beam
* Low Fuel
* Low Washer Fluid
* CHECK ENGINE
* Overdrive Off
* Rear Wheel Anti-Lock (RWAL)
* Seat Belt Reminder
* Security
* Transmission Oil Temperature (A/T)
* Turn Signal
* Upshift (M/T)
* 4WD
SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
WARNING: Vehicle is equipped with an air bag system. To prevent air
bag deployment, disconnect negative battery cable and wait at
least 2 minutes before servicing instrument cluster. See
appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
CAUTION: When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory

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.

Apply light coat of engine oil on NEW .060" (1.5 mm) thick Copper
sealing washer. Install NEW Copper sealing washer on spray tip of fuel
injector. Engine oil is used to aid holding sealing washer in place.
Install new "O" ring on fuel injector. Apply small amount of engine
oil to "O" ring.
2) Ensure fuel inlet hole on side of fuel injector is
positioned toward injector connector tube. Install injector into
cylinder head bore using care not to allow injector tip to touch sides
of bore. Press fuel injector into cylinder head with finger pressure
only. Install fuel injector hold down clamp into shouldered bolt while
aligning slot in top of injector into groove in bottom of clamp.
Tighten opposite clamp bolt to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS.
3) Apply small amount of clean engine oil to NEW "O" ring.
Install "O" ring to fuel injector connector tube. Using finger
pressure only, press injector connector tube into cylinder head.
Connect and tighten high pressure fuel lines to specification. See
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
NOTE: Fuel line fitting torque is important. Mating surfaces will
not seal if fuel line fitting is under or over-torqued.
4) To install remaining components, reverse removal
procedure. Tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
Bleed high-pressure fuel lines. See FUEL LINE BLEEDING under FUEL
SYSTEM.
FUEL INJECTION PUMP
CAUTION: High-pressure fuel lines must be clamped securely and routed
so they do not contact each other or any other components. DO
NOT weld or substitute high-pressure fuel lines. High
-pressure lines are same length and proper high-pressure fuel
line must be installed in specified area for proper engine
operation.
Removal
1) Disconnect negative battery cables. Clean fuel lines at
cylinder head and injection pump. Clean fuel injection pump and fuel
lines at side of pump. Disconnect 9-pin electrical connector at Fuel
Pump Control Module (FPCM). Place a rag around overflow valve to catch\
excess fuel. Remove overflow valve and disconnect fuel return line.
Remove banjo bolts and fuel supply line at side of injection pump and
top of fuel filter housing.
2) Remove all high pressure fuel lines, intake air tube,
accelerator pedal position sensor, air intake housing, engine oil
dipstick tube, wiring clips, electrical connectors at intake heaters,
and engine lifting bracket. Unscrew plastic access cap at front gear
cover. Remove injection pump gear-to-injection pump shaft nut and
washer.
3) Engine may be rotated by removing dust plug from
transmission adapter plate and installing Engine Barring Tool (Snap-On
SP371) in transmission adapter plate. See Fig. 9. Rotate engine until
keyway is at 12 o'clock position.