So I am lookong for advice on my 230K mile Ram 1500 4.7L...flashing P0301. Same problem occured about 6 months ago and I replaced all spark plugs and the #1 ignition coil. Code cleared for a few months, but has come on and off randomly since then. Now that my vehicle inspection is due next month light is on 90% of the time.
Other info...
- Coolant mixing with oil (white sludge in the oil fill tube and under the oil fill cap) (head gasket leak, right?), I add about a quart of coolant every 3-4 months.
- Burns about 1 qt oil between changes, but has since I've owned it so not a new thing
- Starts easy and runs surprisingly well
- No overheating conditions have occurred
I know its high miles but I like the truck and dont want to buy another.
Knowing all that, where would I start to diagnose my P0301? I would hate to go through the time and expense of replacing head gaskets (yes they need done soon I know this) if its just a vacuum leak that I can fix to get inspection done until I can make time for head gaskets.
I am open to all input and suggestions, really do want to keep my ol' faithful truck running.
Other info...
- Coolant mixing with oil (white sludge in the oil fill tube and under the oil fill cap) (head gasket leak, right?), I add about a quart of coolant every 3-4 months.
- Burns about 1 qt oil between changes, but has since I've owned it so not a new thing
- Starts easy and runs surprisingly well
- No overheating conditions have occurred
I know its high miles but I like the truck and dont want to buy another.
Knowing all that, where would I start to diagnose my P0301? I would hate to go through the time and expense of replacing head gaskets (yes they need done soon I know this) if its just a vacuum leak that I can fix to get inspection done until I can make time for head gaskets.
I am open to all input and suggestions, really do want to keep my ol' faithful truck running.
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