Ok..I can't seem to find where to post this question..sorry if its in the wrong section..what would we look for, when a 99 dodge truck gas engine 318, stops running instantly when you release the starter engagement/Key?? new fuel pump a year ago--only 69,000 act miles..

Years ago it would probably have been the ceramic ballast..suggestion?? Tks

 

Will it stay running if you keep it revved up?
Start it with your foot on the gas then let off on the key. Does it still die?

 

I don't know if this is even close but I had a 2004 Ford Ranger that did the same thing. Turned out to be a Fuse/Switch in the Box near the Engine. The thing would start just fine and die the second I let up off the starter.
Dana

 

check the fuses. if you have fuel injection...
if the truck was older, i would say to check voltage at the ignition resister on the firewall.

 

it dies right away, as soon as the key to start is released. Will not rev up...I also thought it might be the fuse for the fuel pump..its still dark outside..and I get home late tonight..but I might just use a flash light tonight..The fuse for that is probably in the "Distribution center" fuse box under the hood..yes it is fuel injection..tks again.

 

I had a problem with this in an old Ramcharger - not a modern truck by anymeans, but might still be the issue -- the ignition switch was bad. When the key was released, the actuator rod returns to the "on" position from the "start" position. A problem with the switch killed the engine when it reached the "on" spot. We replaced the switch (bolted to the lower right side of the steering column in that truck) and all was well. We had to be careful, though, as the switch mounts are slotted to allow proper positioning. It moved out of position once, and then wouldn't crank over, as the "start" position wasn't engaged by the actuating rod when the key was turned.

Again, I am not sure they still use this type of ignition setup in the newer trucks (even a '99 was more refined than that old Ramcharger) but it is worth a shot. Our new switch was only $15 or so bucks back in the late '90's, bought at the local predecessor to CarQuest. Hope this helps.

 

look for a start run relay that could be bad also check with a light tester check the run circuit to see if power stays on the run side of your ignition switch in the on position

 

Do you have a check engine light on, or not?

 

It was the Relay Fuse under the hood, in the Distribution center (Fuse box) a $7.00 NAPA part..runs great now !! thanks for the tips and suggestions!! Fuel pump relay.!!

 

what happens if you take an induction timing light to one of the wires..
does it go out after the starter is released??
Yes->ignition related
-no...fuel related...

what power's these circuits?

check there..

you have to have 3 things for it to run
Air, fuel, spark...any one missing and it won't run!!new or old..

-dkenny