Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 275

B R
COOLING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS 7 - 5
• If the lamp flashes 1 time,, pauses and flashes 7
more times, a flashing Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) number 17 is indicated.
After any stored DTC information has been ob­
served, the display will end with a flashing DTC
number 55. This will indicate the end of all stored in­
formation.
E R A S I N G TROUBLE CODES
After the problem has been repaired, use the DRB
scan tool to erase a DTC. Refer to the appropriate
Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures service manual for
operation of the DRB scan tool.
DRB SCAN TOOL
For operation of the DRB scan tool, refer to the ap­
propriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures service
manual.
PRELIMINARY CHECKS
E N G f f f E COOLING SYSTEM O V E R H E A T I N G
Establish what driving conditions caused the com­
plaint. Abnormal loads on the cooling system such as
the following may be the cause:
1. PROLONGED IDLE, VERY HIGH AMBIENT
TEMPERATURE, SLIGHT TAIL WIND AT IDLE,
SLOW TRAFFIC, TRAFFIC JAMS, HIGH SPEED
OR STEEP GRADES.
Driving techniques that avoid overheating are:
• Idle with A/C off when temperature gauge is at
end of normal range.
• Increasing engine speed for more air flow is recom­
mended.
2. TRAILER TOWING:
Consult Trailer Towing section of owners manual.
Do not exceed limits.
3." AIR CONDITIONING; ADD-ON OR AFTER
MARKET:
A maximum cooling package should have been or­
dered with vehicle if add-on or after market A/C is
installed. If not, maximum cooling system compo­
nents should be installed for model involved per
manufacturer's specifications.
4. RECENT SERVICE OR ACCIDENT REPAIR:
Determine if any recent service has been performed
on vehicle that may effect cooling system. This may
be:
• Engine adjustments (incorrect ignition timing)
• Slipping engine accessory drive belt(s)
• Brakes (possibly dragging)
• Changed parts. Incorrect water pump or pump ro­
tating in wrong direction due to belt not correctly
routed
• Reconditioned radiator or cooling system refilling
(possibly under filled or air trapped in system).
If investigation reveals none of the previous
items as a cause for an engine overheating com­
plaint, refer to following Cooling System Diag­
nosis charts.
These charts are to be used as a quick-reference
only. Refer to the group text for information.