al

I have a 1997 2500 cummins and the electrical stuff is going wonky. The tach, speedometer and idiot lights all flicker plus the tranny shifts back and forth. It's been at the local Dodge dealer for 2 weeks and they're still not sure what the problem is. Just when they want to test the computer, it quits doing the problem. I don't want them to put a new computer in it because they say that after they open the package, they can't take it back. ( if that isn't the problem.)<br>Has anyone else had this happen? Also, does anyone know if I can get an after market computer. The dealer wants approx. $550US for it.<br>Thanks

RCW

Al,<br><br>I have seen this problem occur with one or both batteries failing, bad battery cables (especially the ground), and when the PCM decides to conk out.<br><br>The first thing to check is your battery condition. Get them load tested by a battery shop (anywhere else is a waste of your time and money). Then clean and check all your cables, and be sure you have a ground cable from the negative terminal of one of the batteries to one of the mounting bolts on the starter (some do not, and it can cause wire fires and erratic ground conditions). I also add a couple of other ground straps from the engine to the frame and from the frame to the cab - you just cannot have too many grounds and they are cheap.<br><br>If the problem continues, have an alternator output test done. The electrical shop will know what to do. They can manage the alternator field with a substitute voltage regulator for the test purposes. The PCM contains the regulator, so if it is not alternator diodes or brushes, you will need to take it to a Dodge dealer that has the scan tool that reads the PCM. <br><br>There is absolutely no reason to have to replace the &quot;computer&quot; by any trial and error method. The PCM will code an exact problem. If the dealer cannot read and tell you what they are, find a different dealer.<br><br>If you go back to the dealer you have been using, take a flashlight. Hold it up to one of his ears and look in the other. If you see light, that is pretty typical!

sunwhsle

i had same problem with my 94 changed battries,alternator,cleaned all electrial connections and finally changed computer and that fixed it local dodge dealer had a reman for 137 dollars good luck