2001 DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY ignition

INSTALLATION - 2.4L
The knock sensor threads into the side of the cyl-
inder block in front of the starter (Fig. 13).
(1) Install knock sensor. Tighten knock sensor to
10 N´m (7 ft. lbs.) torque.Over or under tighten-
ing effects knock sensor performance, possibly
causing improper spark control.
(2) Attach electrical connector to knock sensor.
INSTALLATION - 3.8L
The knock sensor threads into the side of the cyl-
inder block in the rear.
(1) Install knock sensor. Tighten knock sensor to
10 N´m (7 ft. lbs.) torque.Over or under tighten-
ing effects knock sensor performance, possibly
causing improper spark control.
(2) Attach electrical connector to knock sensor.
(3) On All Wheel Drive vehicles install the PTU
(Power Transfer Unit) for the rear wheels, refer to
the Transmission section for more information.
(4) Lower vehicle.
(5) Connect the negative cable.
SPARK PLUG
DESCRIPTION - STANDARD 2.4L
All engines use resistor spark plugs. They have
resistance values ranging from 6,000 to 20,000 ohms
when checked with at least a 1000 volt spark plug
tester.
Do not use an ohm meter to check the resis-
tance of the spark plugs. This will give an inac-
curate reading.
Refer to the Specifications section for gap and type
of spark plug.
DESCRIPTION - PLATINUM 3.3/3.8L
These engines utilize platinum spark plugs. Refer
to the maintenance schedule.
All engines use resistor spark plugs. They have
resistance values ranging from 6,000 to 20,000 ohms
when checked with at least a 1000 volt spark plug
tester.
Do not use an ohm meter to check the resis-
tance of the spark plugs. This will give an inac-
curate reading.
The spark plugs are double platinum and have a
recommended service life of 100,000 miles for normal
driving conditions per schedule A in this manual. The
spark plugs have a recommended service life of
75,000 miles for severe driving conditions per sched-
ule B in this manual. A thin platinum pad is welded
to both electrode ends as show in (Fig. 14). Extreme
care must be used to prevent spark plug cross
threading, mis-gaping and ceramic insulator damage
during plug removal and installation.
Fig. 13 Knock Sensor
1 - GENERATOR
2 - INTAKE MANIFOLD
3 - KNOCK SENSOR
4-STARTER
Fig. 14 Platinum Pads
1 - APPLY ANTI-SEIZE COMPOUND HERE ONLY
2 - PLATINUM SPARK SURFACE
8I - 8 IGNITION CONTROLRS
KNOCK SENSOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

CAUTION: Cleaning of the platinum plug may dam-
age the platinum tip.
REMOVAL
When replacing the spark plugs and spark plug
cables, route the cables correctly and secure them in
the appropriate retainers. Failure to route the cables
properly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition
noise, cross ignition of the spark plugs orshort cir-
cuit the cables to ground.
Always remove cables by grasping at the boot,
rotating the boot 1/2 turn, and pulling straight back
in a steady motion.
(1) Prior to removing the spark plug, spray com-
pressed air around the spark plug hole and the area
around the spark plug.
(2) Remove the spark plug using a quality socket
with a foam insert.
(3) Inspect the spark plug condition.
INSTALLATION
When replacing the spark plugs and spark plug
cables, route the cables correctly and secure them in
the appropriate retainers. Failure to route the cables
properly can cause the radio to reproduce ignition
noise, cross ignition of the spark plugs orshort cir-
cuit the cables to ground.(1) To avoid cross threading, start the spark plug
into the cylinder head by hand.
(2) Tighten spark plugs to 17.5 N´m (13 ft. lbs.)
torque.
(3) Install spark plug cables over spark plugs. A
click will be heard and felt when the cable properly
attaches to the spark plug.
SPARK PLUG CABLE
DESCRIPTION
Spark Plug cables are sometimes referred to as
secondary ignition wires. The wires transfer electri-
cal current from the ignition coil pack to individual
spark plugs at each cylinder. The resistive spark plug
cables are of nonmetallic construction. The cables
provide suppression of radio frequency emissions
from the ignition system.
Check the spark plug cable connections for good
contact at the coil, and spark plugs. Terminals should
be fully seated. The insulators should be in good con-
dition and should fit tightly on the coil, and spark
plugs. Spark plug cables with insulators that are
cracked or torn must be replaced.
Clean Spark Plug cables with a cloth moistened
with a non-flammable solvent. Wipe the cables dry.
Check for brittle or cracked insulation. The spark
plug cables and spark plug boots are made from high
temperature silicone materials. All spark plug cable
leads are properly identified with cylinder numbers.
The inside of most the spark plug boot is coated with
a special high temperature silicone grease for greater
sealing and to minimize boot bonding to the spark
plug insulator.
REMOVAL
Failure to route the cables properly could cause the
radio to reproduce ignition noise, cross ignition of the
spark plugs or short circuit the cables to ground.
Remove spark plug cable from coil first.
Always remove the spark plug cable by grasping
the top of the spark plug insulator, turning the boot
1/2 turn and pulling straight up in a steady motion.
INSTALLATION
Failure to route the cables properly could cause the
radio to reproduce ignition noise, cross ignition of the
spark plugs or short circuit the cables to ground.
Install spark plug insulators over spark plugs.
Ensure the top of the spark plug insulator covers the
upper end of the spark plug tube.Then connect the
other end to coil pack.
Fig. 15 Setting Spark Plug Electrode Gap
1 - TAPER GAUGE
RSIGNITION CONTROL8I-9
SPARK PLUG (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
DESCRIPTION............................1
OPERATION.............................1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING..................1
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER..................1
REMOVAL..............................11
INSTALLATION...........................11
CLUSTER LENS
REMOVAL..............................12INSTALLATION...........................12
MECHANICAL TRANSMISSION RANGE
INDICATOR
REMOVAL..............................12
INSTALLATION...........................12
RED BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION...........................12
OPERATION.............................12
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
DESCRIPTION
The instrumentation gauges are contained in a
subdial assembly within the instrument cluster. The
individual gauges are not serviceable. If one of the
cluster gauges becomes faulty, the entire cluster
would require replacement.
The mechanical instrument cluster with a tachom-
eter is equipped with a electronic vacuum fluorescent
transmission range indicator (PRND3L), odometer,
and trip odometer display.
The mechanical instrument cluster without a
tachometer is equipped with a cable operated trans-
mission range indicator (PRND21) and a vacuum
flourescent odometer display.
The instrument cluster is equipped with the follow-
ing warning lamps.
²Lift Gate Ajar
²Low Fuel Level
²Low Windshield Washer Fluid Level
²Cruise
²Battery Voltage
²Fasten Seat Belt
²Door Ajar
²Headlamp Out
²Coolant Temperature
²Anti-Lock Brake
²Brake
²Airbag
²Traction Control
²Autostick
OPERATION
Refer to the vehicle Owner's Manual for operation
instructions and conditions for the Instrument Clus-
ter Gauges.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SELF-
DIAGNOSTICS
The instrument clusters are equipped with a self
diagnostic test feature to help identify electronic
problems. Prior to any test, perform the Self-Diag-
nostic Test. The self diagnostic system displays
instrument cluster stored fault codes in the odometer
display, sweeps the gauges to the calibration points,
and bulb checks the warning indicators. When the
key is in the ON position with the engine not run-
ning, the MIL will remain illuminated for regulatory
purposes.
To activate the Self-Diagnostic program:
(1) With the ignition switch in the OFF position,
depress the TRIP ODOMETER RESET button.
(2) Continue to hold the TRIP ODOMETER
RESET button untilSofand a number (software ver-
sion number (i.e.Sof 3.2) appears in the odometer
window (about five seconds) then release the button.
If a fault code is present, the cluster will display it in
the odometer display. When all fault codes have been
displayed, the cluster will displayªendºin the odom-
eter display. Refer to the table to determine what
each trouble code means.
RSINSTRUMENT CLUSTER8J-1
ProCarManuals.com

CONDITIONS
Refer to the following tables for possible problems,
causes, and corrections.
²INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
²SPEEDOMETER DIAGNOSIS
²TACHOMETER DIAGNOSIS
²FUEL GAUGE DIAGNOSIS
²TEMPERATURE GAUGE DIAGNOSIS²ODOMETER DIAGNOSIS
²ELECTRONIC GEAR INDICATOR DISPLAY
DIAGNOSIS
²MECHANICAL TRANSMISSION RANGE INDI-
CATOR (PRND21) DIAGNOSIS
NOTE: Always check the functionality of the cluster
by running the self test prior to troubleshooting.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
INOPERATIVE.
NO RESPONSE FROM
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER.NO PCI BUS MESSAGES
FROM THE BCM.1. USE A DRB IIITSCAN TOOL TO CHECK THE
BCM. IF OK, LOOK FOR ANOTHER POSSIBLE
CAUSE FOR CLUSTER FAILURE. IF NOT OK,
REFER TO THE PROPER BODY DIAGNOSTIC
PROCEDURES MANUAL.
SPREAD TERMINAL(S)
ON WIRING HARNESS
CLUSTER CONNECTOR.1. REMOVE CLUSTER FROM INSTRUMENT PANEL
AND CHECK WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR FOR
SPREAD TERMINAL. IF OK, LOOK FOR ANOTHER
POSSIBLE CAUSE FOR THE CLUSTER FAILURE. IF
NOT OK, REPAIR CONNECTOR.
BCM IS NOT RECEIVING
PROPER INPUT FROM
THE IGNITION SWITCH.1. USE A DRB IIITSCAN TOOL TO VERIFY IGNITION
SWITCH STATUS INTO THE BCM. IF NOT OK, GO
TO STEP (2). IF OK, LOOK AT ANOTHER POSSIBLE
CAUSE OF FAILURE.
2. CHECK IGNITION SWITCH FUNCTION AND
WIRING.
INTERNAL CLUSTER
FAILURE.1. REPLACE CLUSTER.
WAKE UP CIRCUIT
FAULTY.VERIFY CONTINUITY OF WAKE UP CIRCUIT FROM
BCM TO MIC. CIRCUIT SHALL BE LOW WHENEVER
BCM IS AWAKE.
POWER OR GROUND
MISSING.IF NO RESPONSE FROM THE MIC, CHECK FOR
POWER AND GROUND AT THE MIC CONNECTOR.
REFER TO WIRING DIAGRAMS FOR CONNECTOR
CALL OUTS.
RSINSTRUMENT CLUSTER8J-3
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(11) Install the lower steering column cover. Refer
to Body, Instrument Panel, Lower Steering Column
Cover, Installation.
(12) Connect the battery negative cable.
CLUSTER LENS
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the instrument cluster. Refer to Elec-
trical, Instrument Cluster, Removal.
(2) Remove the screws holding the lens to the
instrument cluster.
(3) Press down on the snap features of the lens
and remove the lens from the cluster.
INSTALLATION
(1) Insert the lens snap features into the cluster.
(2) Install the screws holding the lens to the
instrument cluster.
(3) Install the instrument cluster. Refer to Electri-
cal, Instrument Cluster, Installation.
MECHANICAL TRANSMISSION
RANGE INDICATOR
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the instrument cluster and disconnect
the range indicator cable at both attaching points.
Refer to Electrical, Instrument Cluster, Removal.
(2) From the backside of the cluster, remove two
screws holding the mechanical transmission rangeindicator and then remove it fromt instrument clus-
ter.
INSTALLATION
(1) Insert the mechanical transmission range indi-
cator into the backside of the instrument cluster and
install the two screws.
(2) Install the instrument cluster. Refer to Electri-
cal, Instrument Cluster, Installation.
RED BRAKE WARNING
INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
The red BRAKE warning indicator (lamp) is
located in the instrument panel cluster and is used to
indicate a low brake fluid condition or that the park-
ing brake is applied. In addition, the brake warning
indicator is turned on as a bulb check by the ignition
switch every time the ignition switch is placed in the
crank position.
OPERATION
The red BRAKE warning indicator (lamp) is sup-
plied a 12-volt ignition feed anytime the ignition
switch is on. The bulb is then illuminated by com-
pleting the ground circuit either through the switch
on the parking brake lever, the brake fluid level
switch in the master cylinder reservoir, or the igni-
tion switch when it is placed in the crank position.
8J - 12 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERRS
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR
DESCRIPTION
LAMP SYSTEMS
RS vehicles use lighting on the interior and exte-
rior of the vehicle for illuminating and indicating
purposes. Lighting circuits are protected by fuses.
Lighting circuits require an overload protected power
source, on/off device, lamps and body ground to oper-
ate properly. Plastic lamps require a wire in the har-
ness to supply body ground to the lamp socket.
Replace sockets and bulbs that are corroded.
Some of the interior and exterior lighting functions
are governed by the Body Control Module. The head-
lamp, dome, and the door ajar switches provide sig-
nals to the Body Control Module. The Body Control
Module in turn sends a J1850 message to the Front
Control Module (FCM) to enable the necessary driv-
ers to set the required illumination configuration.
Wire connectors can make intermittent contact or
become corroded. Before coupling wire connectors,
inspect the terminals inside the connector. Male termi-
nals should not be bent or disengaged from the insu-
lator. Female terminals should not be sprung open or
disengaged from the insulator. Bent and sprung termi-
nals can be repaired using needle nose pliers and pick
tool. Corroded terminals appear chalky or green. Cor-
roded terminals should be replaced to avoid recur-
rence of the problem symptoms.
Begin electrical system failure diagnosis by testing
related fuses in the fuse block and intelligent power
module. Verify that bulbs are in good condition and
test continuity of the circuit ground. Refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, details of wire harness
routing and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
AUTOMATIC HEADLAMP SYSTEM
The Automatic Headlamp system turns the instru-
mentation and exterior illumination lamps ON when
the ambient light levels are Night and OFF when
light levels are Day.
DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS
Operating the high-beam headlamps at reduced
power provides daytime running lamps, which are
required on all new Canadian vehicles.
HEADLAMPS ON WITH WINDSHIELD WIPERS
For vehicles equipped with the Automatic Head-
lamp System, the instrumentation and exterior illu-
mination lamps will be turned ON when theheadlamp switch is in the AUTO position, RPM >
450 and the windshield wipers have been in the
intermittent, low or high mode of operation for more
than ten seconds. When the windshield wipers are
turned OFF the Body Control Module will determine
if the instrumentation and exterior illumination
lamps should remain ON base upon the current
ambient light level.
HEADLAMP SYSTEM
The configuration of the headlamp system of head-
lamps, park lamps and fog lamps is determined by
the BCM. The BCM determines the lighting configu-
ration as a result of the inputs from the ignition
switch, headlamp switch and multifunction switch. A
J1850 is transmitted from the BCM to the FCM to
enable the necessary drivers to set the illumination
configuration. Four wires are connected between the
headlamp switch and the BCM. The first wire con-
tains information regarding the position of the head-
lamp switch (Off, Automatic Headlamps, Automatic
Headlamp switch fog, Park with Fog, Head, or Head
with Fog Lamps). The second wire contains informa-
tion regarding the position of the dimmer switch
(Dome Lamp, Daytime Brightness, Dimming Level or
Off). The third wire is a dedicated signal return
(ground) wire. The fourth wire provides power to the
front fog lamp indicator.
HEADLAMP TIME DELAY SYSTEM
The headlamp time delay system is controlled by
the Body Control Module (BCM) via a J1850 message
transmitted by the BCM to the FCM to turn off the
headlamps.
OPERATION
AUTOMATIC HEADLAMP SYSTEM
Automatic headlamps are controlled by the Body
Control Module (BCM). With the headlamp switch in
the AUTO position, the BCM will control the head-
lamp, parking, side marker, tail and instrumentation
lamps based on ambient light levels. Ambient light
levels are monitored by the BCM using the Day/
Night signal and Electrochromatic Mirror (ECM)
present from the Compass Mini Trip (CMTC) located
on the front windshield in front of the rear view mir-
ror (ECM). Ambient light readings are averaged to
limit cycling the lamps ON and OFF when passing
through areas with varying light levels. The auto-
matic headlamps will only function when the engine
is running with RPM > 450. When the headlamp
switch is in the AUTO position (Automatic mode), the
Headlamp Time Delay system will function when the
ignition switch is placed in any position other than
run/start.
8L - 2 LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIORRS
ProCarManuals.com

DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS
Power is reduced using pulse-width modulation to
the high beams, where by the power is switched on
and off rapidly instead of remaining on continuously.
The duration and interval of the power pulses is pro-
grammed into the Front Control Module (FCM).
HEADLAMP SYSTEM
The headlamp system will default to headlamps
ON position when ignition switch is ON and when an
open or short circuit failure occurs on the headlamp
switch input. The system will return to normal oper-
ation when the open or short is repaired. A fault will
be reported by the BCM when a failure occurs on the
dimmer or headlamp switch input.
If the exterior lamps are ON and the headlamp
switch is in any position other than OFF or AUTO
and with the ignition switch OFF (LOCK) after 3
minutes the BCM sends a message via J1850 to the
FCM informing the FCM to turn off the headlamps,
park lamps and fog lamps. This feature prevents the
vehicle battery from being discharged when the vehi-
cle lights have been left ON.
HEADLAMP TIME DELAY SYSTEM
The headlamp time delay system is activated by
turning the headlamps ON (high or low beam) while
the engine is running, turning the ignition switch
OFF, and then turning the headlamp switch OFF
within 45 seconds. The system will not activate if
more than 45 seconds elapse between ignition switch
OFF and headlamp switch OFF. The BCM will allow
the headlamps to remain ON for 90 seconds (config-
urable) before they automatically turn off (If the key
is in the ignition during the headlamp time delay
mode, then both the headlamps and park lamps
(including panel dimming) will be ON). Refer to the
Owner's Manual for more information.
If the headlamp switch is in the Auto Headlamp
Position, the headlamps are ON due to the night sig-
nal from the CMTC and the ignition switch is in any
position other than run/start, the BCM shall enter a
90 second (configurable) Auto Headlamps time delay
mode. If the key is in the ignition during the head-
lamp time delay mode, then both the headlamps and
park lamps (including panel dimming) will be ON. If
the key is not in the ignition, then only the head-
lamps will be ON. The BCM will allow the head-
lamps to remain ON for 90 seconds before they
automatically turn OFF. Refer to the Owner's Man-
ual for more information.
LAMP OUTAGE
If one or more of the following lamps (Low and/or
High beams) are out, then a ªlamps outº indicator
located in the cluster will illuminate.
OPTICAL HORN/HIGH BEAMS
When the multifunction switch is pulled to the first
detent (optical horn) signal, the headlamps are ON,
key-in the ignition the BCM shall send a message via
J1850 to the FCM to turn on the headlamps drivers
to illuminate all four filaments (Low and High
beams). When the multifunction switch is pulled to
the second detent (high beam) signal and the head-
lamps are ON, the BCM shall send a message via
J1850 to the FCM to turn on the headlamps drivers.
The High Beams are illuminated and the Low Beams
and Fog Lamps (if ON) are extinguished. If the head-
lamps were in the high beam configuration when
power was removed from the headlamps, the head-
lamps will be configured as low beam the next time
they are activated.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
WARNING: EYE PROTECTION SHOULD BE USED
WHEN SERVICING GLASS COMPONENTS. PER-
SONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
CAUTION: Do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs
with fingers or other possibly oily surface, reduced
bulb life will result. Do not use bulbs other than
those indicated in the Bulb Application table. Dam-
age to lamp and/or Daytime Running Lamp Module
can result. Do not use fuses, circuit breakers or
relays having greater amperage value than indi-
cated on the fuse panel or in the Owners Manual.
When a vehicle experiences problems with the
headlamp system, verify the condition of the battery
connections, fuses, charging system, headlamp bulbs,
wire connectors, relay, high beam switch, dimmer
switch, and headlamp switch. Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
Each vehicle is equipped with various lamp assem-
blies. A good ground is necessary for proper lighting
operation. Grounding is provided by the lamp socket
when it comes in contact with the metal body, or
through a separate ground wire.
When changing lamp bulbs check the socket for
corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean it with a wire
brush.
When it is necessary to remove components to ser-
vice another, it should not be necessary to apply
excessive force or bend a component to remove it.
Before damaging a trim component, verify hidden
fasteners or captured edges are not holding the com-
ponent in place.
RSLAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR8L-3
LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

HEADLAMPS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
HEADLAMPS ARE DIM
WITH ENGINE IDLING1. Loose or corroded battery cables. 1. Clean and secure battery cable clamps
and posts.
OR IGNITION TURNED
OFF2. Loose or worn generator drive belt. 2. Adjust or replace generator drive belt.
3. Charging system output too low. 3. Test and repair charging system, refer
to Electrical, Charging
4. Battery has insufficient charge. 4. Test battery state-of -charge, refer to
Electrical, Battery System.
5. Battery is sulfated or shorted. 5. Load test battery, refer to Electrical,
Battery System.
6. Poor lighting circuit Z343/Z344-
ground.6. Test for voltage drop across Z343/Z344-
ground locations, refer to Electrical, Wiring
Diagram Information.
HEADLAMP BULBS BURN
OUT FREQUENTLY1. Intelligent Power Module (IPM) not
controlling voltage.1. Test and repair Intelligent Power
Module.
2. Loose or corroded terminals or
splices in circuit.2. Inspect and repair all connectors and
splices. Refer to Electrical, Wiring
Information.
HEADLAMPS ARE DIM
WITH ENGINE RUNNING
ABOVE IDLE1. Charging system output too low. 1. Test and repair charging system, refer
to Electrical, Wiring Information.
2. Poor lighting circuit Z343/Z344-
ground.2. Test for voltage drop across Z343/Z344-
ground locations, refer to Electrical, Wiring
Information.
3. High resistance in headlamp
circuit.3. Test amperage draw of headlamp
circuit.
HEADLAMPS FLASH
RANDOMLY1. Poor lighting circuit Z343/Z344-
ground.1. Test for voltage drop across Z343/Z344-
ground locations, refer to Electrical, Wiring
Information.
2. Variable resistance in headlamp
circuit.2. Test amperage draw of headlamp
circuit.
3. Loose or corroded terminals or
splices in circuit.3. Inspect and repair all connectors and
splices, refer to Electrical, Wiring
Information.
4. Faulty headlamp switch. 4. Replace headlamp switch.
HEADLAMPS DO NOT
ILLUMINATE1. No voltage to headlamps. 1. Repair open headlamp circuit, refer to
Electrical, Wiring Information.
2. No Z343/Z344-ground at
headlamps.2. Repair circuit ground, refer to Electrical,
Wiring Information.
3. Broken connector terminal or wire
splice in headlamp circuit.3. Repair connector terminal or wire splice.
4. Faulty or burned out bulb. 4. Replace headlamp bulb(s).
5. Body Control Module malfunction. 5. Refer to appropriate Body Control
Module diagnostics.
8L - 4 LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIORRS
LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com