Expert: Roland Finston - 9/29/2011

Question
Hi Roland,
My 1992 250 318 Dodge ram van 109,000 mi. started stalling this July.
Seemed to be a fuel issue. Had a new fuel pump module assembly, fuel pump relay, and crankshaft position sensor replaced. Two days later, van would not start again. Mechanic advised us to bang on the computer vent cover while starting. It worked. But still would not start reliably. Then on a short trip when it did start, I started to blow oil. The mechanic recommended the computer be replaced. Since this mechanic charged us over 150 more than he quoted, I do not trust his instincts. Before I shell out more $ for a computer, what other things could be causing this? This is a conversion van which does not get driven that many miles. Would a thorough clean up inside help?

Answer
Hi Steve,
I am not expert on the Ram vans with v-8 engines. However, it may be the case that the computer has self-diagnostic capability as did the cars of '92. Turn the ignition key; "on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the 'check engine' light, which remains 'on' to see it begin to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause. Then repeat the process to be sure of an accurate set of flash counts. Let me know the counts in order of appearance and we'll go from there.
I would also take a look at the egr valve which may be gummed up and thus causing a too lean mixture when slowing to a stop because it is ajar rather than closing. If so, try spraying some WD-40 on the valve stem where it enters the valve body. I have to assume it has an egr because I don't have manual for the Ram vans.
Roland