Questions and Answers
Ram Won't Run
Q. I have a 1988 Dodge Ram 50 with a 2600cc engine in it. I had the head replaced (cracked) and have had nothing but trouble since then. The mechanic has gone over everything, fuel pump, rechecked the valves, the timing belt the vacuum lines, the thermal switches etc.
The car used to run fine until it warmed up then it would lose power and would run only if the engine was revved up (usually using lower gears) now the truck sounds like its falling apart and the engine knocks terribly. I feel it is a problem with all the vacuum lines and modules and switches. I live very far in the woods and don't have emission controls regulated here, so is it possible I can bypass the whole vacuum horror and have a basic carb/vacuum to distributor system? Please let me know what you think.
Thank you much,
PhilA. It would not be possible to bypass all the emission controls and vacuum switches. Even if it weren't against Federal law, the systems are so integrated the engine would probably not run without them.
I think your best bet here would be to find another mechanic to look at it for you. The first guy did something wrong and he can't find what it is. Another mechanic is the only chance to find out what's wrong. Personally, I think he either installed the timing chain incorrectly or has the valves misadjusted.
