2003 DODGE RAM ECU

(4) Lubricate the tappet with clean engine oil or
suitable equivalent and install the tappet to the
installation tool (Fig. 85).
(5) Pull the tappet up and into position (Fig. 85). If
difficulty is experienced getting the tappet to make
the turn into the tappet bore, wiggle the trough
whilegentlypulling up on the tappet.
(6) With the tappet in place, rotate the trough one
half turn so the open side is down (toward crank-
shaft) (Fig. 86).
(7) Remove the tappet installation tool from the
tappet.
(8) Re-install a dowel rod and secure the rod with
a rubber band.
(9) Rotate the trough one half turn and repeat the
procedure for the remaining tappets.
(10) Install the camshaft (Refer to 9 - ENGINE/
ENGINE BLOCK/CAMSHAFT & BEARINGS (IN
BLOCK) - INSTALLATION).PISTON & CONNECTING ROD
DESCRIPTION
PISTONS
The piston (Fig. 87) is constructed of aluminum
and is gravity cast, free floating design. The piston
incorporates a centrally located high swirl combus-
tion bowl, and utilizes a ªkeystoneº style top com-
pression ring (Fig. 88), and a ªTapered Faceº
intermediate ring (Fig. 88), for superior cylinder wall
scraping. Piston cooling nozzles cool the piston and
pin with engine oil supplied by the crankshaft main
journals. High horsepower pistons are gallery cooled
and utilize J-jet piston cooling nozzles.
Fig. 85 Insert Tool and Pull Tappet Into Place -
Typical
Fig. 86 Rotate Trough One Half Turn (180É) - Typical
Fig. 87 Piston - Typical
Fig. 88 Piston Ring Identification
DRENGINE 5.9L DIESEL 9 - 329
SOLID LIFTERS/TAPPETS (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐCYLINDER
COMPRESSION PRESSURE
The results of a cylinder compression pressure test
can be utilized to diagnose several engine malfunc-
tions.
Ensure the battery is completely charged and the
engine starter motor is in good operating condition.
Otherwise, the indicated compression pressures may
not be valid for diagnosis purposes.
(1) Clean the spark plug recesses with compressed
air.
(2) Remove the spark plugs (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/IGNITION CONTROL/SPARK PLUG -
REMOVAL).
(3) Secure the throttle in the wide-open position.
(4) Disconnect the ignition coil.
(5) Insert a compression pressure gauge and rotate
the engine with the engine starter motor for three
revolutions.
(6) Record the compression pressure on the third
revolution. Continue the test for the remaining cylin-
ders.
(Refer to 9 - ENGINE - SPECIFICATIONS) for the
correct engine compression pressures.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CYLINDER
COMBUSTION PRESSURE LEAKAGE
The combustion pressure leakage test provides an
accurate means for determining engine condition.
Combustion pressure leakage testing will detect:
²Exhaust and intake valve leaks (improper seat-
ing)
²Leaks between adjacent cylinders or into water
jacket²Any causes for combustion/compression pressure
loss
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP
WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE.
SERIOUS BURNS FROM HOT COOLANT CAN
OCCUR.
Check the coolant level and fill as required. DO
NOT install the radiator cap.
Start and operate the engine until it attains nor-
mal operating temperature, then turn OFF the
engine.
Remove the spark plugs.
Remove the oil filler cap.
Remove the air cleaner.
Calibrate the tester according to the manufactur-
er's instructions. The shop air source for testing
should maintain 483 kPa (70 psi) minimum, 1,379
kPa (200 psi) maximum and 552 kPa (80 psi) recom-
mended.
Perform the test procedure on each cylinder accord-
ing to the tester manufacturer's instructions. While
testing, listen for pressurized air escaping through
the throttle body, tailpipe or oil filler cap opening.
Check for bubbles in the radiator coolant.
All gauge pressure indications should be equal,
with no more than 25% leakage.
FOR EXAMPLE:At 552 kPa (80 psi) input pres-
sure, a minimum of 414 kPa (60 psi) should be main-
tained in the cylinder CYLINDER COMBUSTION
PRESSURE LEAKAGE DIAGNOSIS CHART.
CYLINDER COMBUSTION PRESSURE LEAKAGE DIAGNOSIS CHART
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
AIR ESCAPES THROUGH
THROTTLE BODYIntake valve bent, burnt, or not
seated properlyInspect valve and valve seat.
Reface or replace, as necessary
AIR ESCAPES THROUGH
TAILPIPEExhaust valve bent, burnt, or not
seated properlyInspect valve and valve seat.
Reface or replace, as necessary
AIR ESCAPES THROUGH
RADIATORHead gasket leaking or cracked
cylinder head or blockRemove cylinder head and inspect.
Replace defective part
MORE THAN 50% LEAKAGE
FROM ADJACENT CYLINDERSHead gasket leaking or crack in
cylinder head or block between
adjacent cylindersRemove cylinder head and inspect.
Replace gasket, head, or block as
necessary
MORE THAN 25% LEAKAGE AND
AIR ESCAPES THROUGH OIL
FILLER CAP OPENING ONLYStuck or broken piston rings;
cracked piston; worn rings and/or
cylinder wallInspect for broken rings or piston.
Measure ring gap and cylinder
diameter, taper and out-of-round.
Replace defective part as necessary
DRENGINE 8.0L 9 - 359
ENGINE 8.0L (Continued)

MopartGasket Maker is an anaerobic type gasket
material. The material cures in the absence of air
when squeezed between two metallic surfaces. It will
not cure if left in the uncovered tube. The anaerobic
material is for use between two machined surfaces.
Do not use on flexible metal flanges.
MOPARtGASKET SEALANT
MopartGasket Sealant is a slow drying, perma-
nently soft sealer. This material is recommended for
sealing threaded fittings and gaskets against leakage
of oil and coolant. Can be used on threaded and
machined parts under all temperatures. This mate-
rial is used on engines with multi-layer steel (MLS)
cylinder head gaskets. This material also will pre-
vent corrosion. MopartGasket Sealant is available in
a 13 oz. aerosol can or 4oz./16 oz. can w/applicator.
FORM-IN-PLACE GASKET AND SEALER
APPLICATION
Assembling parts using a form-in-place gasket
requires care but it's easier than using precut gas-
kets.
MopartGasket Maker material should be applied
sparingly 1 mm (0.040 in.) diameter or less of sealant
to one gasket surface. Be certain the material sur-
rounds each mounting hole. Excess material can eas-
ily be wiped off. Components should be torqued in
place within 15 minutes. The use of a locating dowel
is recommended during assembly to prevent smear-
ing material off the location.
MopartEngine RTV GEN II or ATF RTV gasket
material should be applied in a continuous bead
approximately 3 mm (0.120 in.) in diameter. All
mounting holes must be circled. For corner sealing, a
3.17 or 6.35 mm (1/8 or 1/4 in.) drop is placed in the
center of the gasket contact area. Uncured sealant
may be removed with a shop towel. Components
should be torqued in place while the sealant is still
wet to the touch (within 10 minutes). The usage of a
locating dowel is recommended during assembly to
prevent smearing material off the location.
MopartGasket Sealant in an aerosol can should be
applied using a thin, even coat sprayed completely
over both surfaces to be joined, and both sides of a
gasket. Then proceed with assembly. Material in a
can w/applicator can be brushed on evenly over the
sealing surfaces. Material in an aerosol can should be
used on engines with multi-layer steel gaskets.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REPAIR DAMAGED
OR WORN THREADS
CAUTION: Be sure that the tapped holes maintain
the original center line.Damaged or worn threads can be repaired. Essen-
tially, this repair consists of:
²Drilling out worn or damaged threads.
²Tapping the hole with a special Heli-Coil Tap, or
equivalent.
²Installing an insert into the tapped hole to bring
the hole back to its original thread size.
STANDARD PROCEDUREÐHYDROSTATIC
LOCK
CAUTION: DO NOT use the starter motor to rotate
the crankshaft. Severe damage could occur.
When an engine is suspected of hydrostatic lock
(regardless of what caused the problem), follow the
steps below.
(1) Perform the Fuel Pressure Release Procedure
(Refer to 14 - FUEL SYSTEM/FUEL DELIVERY -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(2) Disconnect the negative cable(s) from the bat-
tery.
(3) Inspect air cleaner, induction system, and
intake manifold to ensure system is dry and clear of
foreign material.
(4) Place a shop towel around the spark plugs to
catch any fluid that may possibly be under pressure
in the cylinder head. Remove the spark plugs.
(5) With all spark plugs removed, rotate the crank-
shaft using a breaker bar and socket.
(6) Identify the fluid in the cylinders (coolant, fuel,
oil, etc.).
(7) Be sure all fluid has been removed from the
cylinders.
(8) Repair engine or components as necessary to
prevent this problem from occurring again.
(9) Squirt a small amount of engine oil into the
cylinders to lubricate the walls. This will prevent
damage on restart.
(10) Install new spark plugs. Tighten the spark
plugs to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.) torque.
(11) Drain engine oil. Remove and discard the oil
filter.
(12) Install the drain plug. Tighten the plug to 34
N´m (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
(13) Install a new oil filter.
(14) Fill engine crankcase with the specified
amount and grade of oil. (Refer to LUBRICATION &
MAINTENANCE - SPECIFICATIONS).
(15) Connect the negative cable(s) to the battery.
(16) Start the engine and check for any leaks.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the battery.
(2) Drain cooling system (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
DRENGINE 8.0L 9 - 361
ENGINE 8.0L (Continued)

FRONT FASCIA
REMOVAL
ST/SLT/SLT+ - FASCIA REMOVAL
(1) Remove the two screws at each trailing edge of
the fascia. (Fig. 3)
(2) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, care-
fully release the six lower clips and remove the close
out panel.
(3) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, care-
fully remove the step pad.
(4) Remove and discard the four push pin fasten-
ers and remove the fascia.
SPORT FASCIA REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle. (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(2) Remove the three screws at each trailing edge
of the fascia. (Fig. 4)
(3) Remove the five lower screws.
(4) Remove and discard the four upper push pins.
(5) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, care-
fully release the six lower clips and remove the close
out panel.
(6) Using a trim stick C-4755 or equivalent, care-
fully remove the step pad.
(7) Spread the fascia out at the wheels and remove
from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: The left and right inboard bumper to bracket
attachments must be secured before installing the
fascia and step pad.
ST/SLT/SLT+ FASCIA INSTALLATION
(1) Install the fascia.
(2) Position the close out panel and seat the 6
lower clips fully.
(3) Install four new upper push pin fasteners.
(4) Position the step pad onto the fascia and fully
seat the attachment clips.
(5) Align the fascia to the fender with a 19 mm
(0.75 inch) gap and install the two screws at each
trailing edge of the fascia.
SPORT FASCIA INSTALLATION
(1) Position the fascia onto the bumper.
(2) Position the step pad onto the fascia and fully
seat the attachment clips.
(3) Install four new upper push pin fasteners.
(4) Install the five lower screws.
(5) Install the three screws at each trailing edge of
the fascia.
Fig. 3 UPPER FASCIA - ST/SLT/SLT+
1 - STEP PAD
2 - UPPER FASCIA (ST/SLT/SLT+ MODEL ONLY)
3 - INBOARD BUMPER BRACKET ATTACHMENTS
4 - SCREWS (4)
5 - PUSH PIN FASTENERS (4)
Fig. 4 SPORT FASCIA
1 - STEP PAD
2 - FASCIA (SPORT MODEL ONLY)
3 - SCREWS (3 PER SIDE)
4 - UPPER FASCIA SUPPORT BRACKET
5 - WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD BRACKET
6 - INBOARD BUMPER BRACKET ATTACHMENTS
7 - PUSH PIN FASTENERS (4)
8 - LOWER SCREWS (5)
DRFRAMES & BUMPERS 13 - 3

(16) On 4X4 models use the service sleeve as a
template to drill a hole in the frame tip to accommo-
date the sway bar mounting bolt. (Fig. 12)
(17) Slide the service sleeve into the replacement
frame tip and align to the 2 mm (0.08 in.) off center
line made previously during the sleeve assembly and
tack the ring fillet welds to hold them in place. (Fig.
10) (Fig. 11) (Fig. 12) (Fig. 13)
(18) On 4X4 models, install the sway bar tapping
plate and secure with tack welds. (Fig. 12) (Fig. 13)
Fig. 10 4X2 SLEEVE INSTALLATION
1 - REPLACEMENT FRAME TIP
2 - FRAME RAIL
3 - SERVICE SLEEVE
4 - PLP
5 - SWAY BAR MOUNTING BRACKET
6 - TAPPING PLATE
7 - ROOT WELD GAPFig. 11 4X2 SLEEVE INSTALLATION
1 - REPLACEMENT FRAME TIP
2 - ROOT WELD GAP
3 - SERVICE SLEEVE
4 - SWAY BAR MOUNTING BRACKET
5 - TAPPING PLATE
DRFRAMES & BUMPERS 13 - 7
FRAME (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Connect necessary wiring into electrical con-
nectors. Connect 4±wire electrical connector to pump
module.
(2) Position sending unit to pump module. Slide
and snap into place.
(3) Install fuel pump module. Refer to Fuel Pump
Module Removal/Installation.
FUEL LINES
DESCRIPTION
Also refer to Quick-Connect Fittings.
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM MAY BE UNDER A
CONSTANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE
OFF). BEFORE SERVICING ANY FUEL SYSTEM
HOSES, FITTINGS, LINES, OR MOST COMPO-
NENTS, FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE MUST BE
RELEASED. REFER TO THE FUEL SYSTEM PRES-
SURE RELEASE PROCEDURE.
The lines/tubes/hoses used on fuel injected vehicles
are of a special construction. This is due to the
higher fuel pressures and the possibility of contami-
nated fuel in this system. If it is necessary to replace
these lines/tubes/hoses, only those marked EFM/EFI
may be used.
If equipped:The hose clamps used to secure rub-
ber hoses on fuel injected vehicles are of a special
rolled edge construction. This construction is used toprevent the edge of the clamp from cutting into the
hose. Only these rolled edge type clamps may be
used in this system. All other types of clamps may
cut into the hoses and cause high-pressure fuel leaks.
Use new original equipment type hose clamps.
QUICK CONNECT FITTING
DESCRIPTION
Different types of quick-connect fittings are used to
attach various fuel system components, lines and
tubes. These are: a single-tab type, a two-tab type or
a plastic retainer ring type. Some are equipped with
safety latch clips. Some may require the use of a spe-
cial tool for disconnection and removal. Refer to
Quick-Connect Fittings Removal/Installation for more
information.
CAUTION: The interior components (o-rings, clips)
of quick-connect fittings are not serviced sepa-
rately, but new plastic spacers are available for
some types. If service parts are not available, do
not attempt to repair the damaged fitting or fuel line
(tube). If repair is necessary, replace the complete
fuel line (tube) assembly.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - QUICK-CONNECT
FITTINGS
Also refer to Fuel Tubes/Lines/Hoses and Clamps.
Different types of quick-connect fittings are used to
attach various fuel system components, lines and
tubes. These are: a single-tab type, a two-tab type or
a plastic retainer ring type. Safety latch clips are
used on certain components/lines. Certain fittings
may require use of a special tool for disconnection.
DISCONNECTING
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER A CON-
STANT PRESSURE (EVEN WITH ENGINE OFF).
BEFORE SERVICING ANY FUEL SYSTEM HOSE,
FITTING OR LINE, FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE MUST
BE RELEASED. REFER TO FUEL SYSTEM PRES-
SURE RELEASE PROCEDURE.
CAUTION: The interior components (o-rings, spac-
ers) of some types of quick-connect fitting are not
serviced separately. If service parts are not avail-
able, do not attempt to repair a damaged fitting or
fuel line. If repair is necessary, replace complete
fuel line assembly.
(1) Perform fuel pressure release procedure. Refer
to Fuel Pressure Release Procedure.
Fig. 4 FUEL GAUGE SENDING UNIT - R/I
1 - SENDING UNIT
2 - LOCK TAB
3 - TRACKS
4 - NOTCH
14 - 8 FUEL DELIVERY - GASDR
FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT / SENSOR (Continued)

5.9L Gas
The sensor is bolted to the top of the cylinder block
near the rear of right cylinder head (Fig. 13).
(1) Raise vehicle.(2) Disconnect crankshaft position sensor pigtail
harness from main wiring harness.
(3) Remove two sensor (recessed hex head) mount-
ing bolts (Fig. 13).
(4) Remove sensor from engine.
8.0L V±10
The crankshaft position sensor is located on the
right-lower side of the cylinder block, forward of the
right engine mount, just above the oil pan rail (Fig.
14).
(1) Raise and support vehicle.
(2) Disconnect sensor pigtail harness from main
engine wiring harness.
(3) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 15).
(4) Cut plastic tie strap (Fig. 14) securing sensor
pigtail harness to side of engine block.
(5) Carefully pry sensor from cylinder block in a
rocking action with two small screwdrivers.
(6) Remove sensor from vehicle.
(7) Check condition of sensor o-ring (Fig. 16).
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
(1) Clean out machined hole in engine block.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into engine block with a slight
rocking and twisting action.
Fig. 12 CKP REMOVAL / INSTALLATION - 5.7L V-8
1 - CYLINDER BLOCK - RIGHT / REAR
2 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
3 - MOUNTING BOLT
4 - CKP SENSOR
Fig. 13 CKP REMOVAL / INSTALLATION - 5.9L V-8
1 - GROMMET
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS (2)
3 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
4 - RIGHT EXHAUST MANIFOLD
5 - TRANSMISSION BELL HOUSING
Fig. 14 CKP SENSOR LOCATION ± 8.0L V-10
1 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
2 - HOLE
3 - OIL FILTER
4 - PLASTIC TIE STRAP
5 - PIGTAIL HARNESS
14 - 30 FUEL INJECTION - GASDR
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder
block. If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor
mounting tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten to 28 N´m
(21 ft. lbs.) torque.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
(6) Lower vehicle.
4.7L V-8
(1) Clean out machined hole in engine block.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into engine block with a slight
rocking and twisting action.CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder
block. If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor
mounting tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten to 28 N´m
(21 ft. lbs.) torque.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
(6) Lower vehicle.
5.7L V-8
(1) Clean out machined hole in engine block.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into engine block with a slight
rocking and twisting action.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder
block. If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor
mounting tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten to 28 N´m
(21 ft. lbs.) torque.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
(6) Lower vehicle.
5.9L V-8 Gas
(1) Position crankshaft position sensor to engine.
(2) Install mounting bolts and tighten to 8 N´m (70
in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Connect main harness electrical connector to
sensor.
(4) Lower vehicle.
8.0L V-10
(1) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(2) Install sensor into cylinder block with a slight
rocking action. Do not twist sensor into position as
damage to o-ring may result.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder
block. If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor
mounting tang may result.
(3) Install mounting bolt and tighten to 8 N´m (70
in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Connect sensor pigtail harness to main engine
wiring harness
(5) Install new plastic tie strap (Fig. 14) to secure
sensor pigtail harness to side of engine block. Thread
tie strap through casting hole on cylinder block.
Fig. 15 CKP SENSOR R/I ± 8.0L V-10
1 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
2 - MOUNTING BOLT
3 - SENSOR POSITIONED FLUSH TO CYLINDER BLOCK
Fig. 16 SENSOR O-RING ± 8.0L V-10
1 - CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR O-RING
2 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - PIGTAIL HARNESS
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 31
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)