Questions and Answers

Dodge Ram Needs The Gas Q. Have a 1996 Dodge Ram 2500 Van with the 5.2 liter V-8 and automatic transmission. Just crossed 80,000 miles. At about 50,000 miles it started acting as though it were running out of fuel when the tank was below ¼ full, the engine under load and going up hill. Pull over and it idled fine. Refill the tank and it ran fine under the same conditions.

I had the fuel pump replaced at a dealership, but now, 30,000 miles and an expired warranty later, I'm having the same problem. I think it sucks air into the system, when I refill it takes a minute to smooth out and then it runs like a brand new truck. I'm incisive enough to figure out I should keep the tank full but would appreciate your comments.

1. Is this a Dodge design problem with either the pick up placement or connection to the pump?

2. Am I safe to keep it half or better full of gas and just run it as is over the long term?

A. Hmmm... does this happen when the gas tank is half full, or half empty?

Usually this is indicative of a weak fuel pump, but this truck had a problem with the fuel rollover valves in the fuel tank. There was a recall on them, Recall 97V199000: Fuel Tank Rollover Valve Defect, and it could cause the problem you are experiencing. I would pull into a Dodge Dealer and let them run the VIN number and see if it was done or is outstanding.

The Chrysler campaign number is: Safety Recall #748 -- Fuel Tank Rollover Valve.

If it is, indeed, the rollover valve, there is a danger of a leakage that could result in a fire. So if I am going to make an error, it will be on the side of safety and say no, it is not safe to drive it like this.