Will not start in cold damp weather

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FFP1

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1997 Dodge ram 1500 van V6 3.9L

Will not start in cold damp weather, but will start in dry weather.

Does anyone know why this happens?
 

Pntyrmvr

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Does the check engine light come on when you turn the key to RUN before starting it on cold days?

If it doesn’t come on, but does on warm days I’d suggest the computer.


"Talk is cheap. Whiskey costs money."
 

MADDOG

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Check your PCM connection to make sure it's tight, dry and not corroded or covered in dirt.

Also, check coil and distributor for cracks or condensation.
 
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FFP1

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Thank you(s) for replies.

It was 42 degrees and raining today. Tried starting it and check engine light comes on in ‘run’ position, but turning it to start just gave a ‘click’ (no start).

Going to check the PCM connections, coil and distributor as soon as it’s a little drier outside, and report back.
 

korby05

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I had the same issues a couple years ago with my 5.9. What ended up being the problem is the cap was getting moisture under the cap. So there was no spark.

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DodgeDude99

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My ‘99 would do the same thing, it was always the coil/wire/distributor cap

If I wiped it done or used a heat gun on each, it would fire right up.
 
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FFP1

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Yep, condensation under cap! I put some gasketmaker in there and now she fires right up in bad weather.

Thank you very much for your help!
 

ouch1011

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Is the starter turning but the engine won't start, or does the starter not turn when this happens? Everyone seems to be assuming that the starter cranks and the engine won't start, but I don't see where you specifically said that. If it won't crank, check your battery cables. But you'll probably need to either replace the starter or the solenoid contacts/plunger.
 
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FFP1

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. . for a while (since my last post) it was ok, but now it just clicks once when I turn key, but does not crank . . so I wait 10 seconds and I try again and get another ‘click’. . and do this 3 or 4 times, and it will start.
 

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