Rudolf

I am new to this forum and a new used truck owner. I purchased a Dodge 3/4t to use for my slide-on camper. I was convinced by others to go diesel because though the fuel costs more, the benefits are worth it--better mileage, more power, longer lasting engine, etc. My maiden voyage (w/o camper) was frustrating because the engine kept cutting out on me on the highway. After several times stalling on the highway, I finally figured out that if I kept it under 45mph, I was able to limp to the used vehicle lot where I had purchased the truck. The truck has a 12,000/12 month warranty.

To make a long story short, I want to learn about diesels (what to listen for, what to expect, what maintenance schedule to follow, etc.) so I don't feel so helpless again. I am a senior woman who knows enough about gas vehicles to get by, but even though I figured my problem had something to do with the fuel line, I had absolutely no idea where to look, what to try, or whether I should even continue to drive it.

Can anyone point me in the right direction? I don't want to become a diesel mechanic, I just want to understand the basics. I apologize if this is the wrong forun for this request. Thanks for reading.

eng208

Sounds like a lift pump maybe

infidel

Could be as simple as a plugged up fuel filter. There is also a prefilter located in the fuel heater that often gets ignored in many servicings that can plug up.
If that doesn't get it replace the overflow valve.

Click this to learn a lot about your new truck>
http://dodgeram.org/support_pgs/diesel_ix.htm

J BODY

.....keep an eye this guy Rudolph. He knows his 12 valve CTDs.


Only things that come to mind if owning a 12 valve:

Learn the operation and symptoms of the fuel shutoff solenoid. I've seen many a tow in over the years that the owner could have simply lifted the lever up manually and the truck would start.

If you still have black valve cover gaskets chances are it's been a long time since a valve adjustment (cummins gaskets have been gray for quite some time now).