[jmann]

Originally, it started with what I thought were tranny problems (2001 Ram 1500, 5.9). The tip off was rpm spikes (momentary, and perhaps 75-100 rpm at most). Engine rpm are actually spiking (not just a tach prob.), but I can't really feel the tranny pull. I posted the problem, thinking either tranny issue or torque converter clutch issue: here.

From that post:

Pertinent info:
▪ Only two codes recently blown: evaporative emission control system leak (one code is "gross leak" and the other code is "small leak").
▪ Off the line, the shift to second is usually a bit rough (as if there is a minor slip in the tranny).
▪ I replaced the spark plugs, pvc valve, IAC motor, and TPS recently according to recommendations by others who've had similar problems.
▪ One cylinder was recently missing a bit (I think it is a spark plug wire deal, though not verified).

Additional info:
▪ Just changed distributor cap/rotor/spark plug wires. The engine doesn't seem to be missing now.
▪ Recently pulled a decent load 200+ miles with no change (better or worse) in the situation. Second gear still shifts rough unless I take first gear to around 2300-2500 rpm.
▪ Today gas leaked from above the fuel tank when I topped it off. Fuel pump? Explains my evaporative emission leak codes blowing. Does it explain the rpm jump?
▪ "CCd" code appears in my overhead console, perhaps needing a DRB scan tool to diagnose?

As things get fixed, I'll keep posting which symptoms (if any) go away.

 

[RootBeer]

Keep us informed. How's the tranny fluid look, just curious?

 

[jmann]

Tranny fluid read full a few days ago.

 

[RootBeer]

What color is it? How does it smell? When was the last time the filter was changed and fluid completely flushed?

As for the gas coming out the top of the tank, I think you got that one figured out. Not sure if it could cause the surge in rpm though.

 

[jmann]

What color is it? How does it smell? When was the last time the filter was changed and fluid completely flushed?

I'll double check, but nothing struck me as strange. I just bought the pickup a couple of months back, so I'm not sure whether or not the filter/fluid has ever been changed.

As for the gas issue, I'll hopefully find the time to fix it this week. The 'ole dodge Spirit will be my vehicle of choice, so I'm okay for now.

 

[RamTech]

Sounds like it's time to have the line pressures checked. Your EVAP codes won't have anything to do with your shifting issue.

 

[Mtx]

do you smell gas when around or in the truck? my jeep had a leak i never found but could smell sometimes and when filled up it would drip

 

[jmann]

What color is it? How does it smell?

Tranny fluid color isn't too bad... maybe a little darker than usual. But it smells like hot metal... and I checked it cold. Thoughts?

do you smell gas when around or in the truck?

No smell of gas. Checked it tonight and couldn't find any source for the leak. I wondering if maybe I over filled it and gas ran out of a vent line or something. I new the truck, so I'm still learning the fuel system.

 

[RootBeer]

Tranny fluid color isn't too bad... maybe a little darker than usual. But it smells like hot metal... and I checked it cold. Thoughts?

RamTech gave you some great advice.

As for the tranny fluid with that smell, it definitely sounds like it needs a filter change and a complete fluid flush, not just drain and fill which is likely what was done before.

 

[jmann]

a filter change and a complete fluid flush

Yeah, was thinking that, too. Hopefully I'm not too late.

Tonight I've also noticed what may be a vacuum leak. When I rev the engine, a higher pitch 'airy' sound precedes (a split second in front of) the actual increase in engine rpm. Another line of investigation.

...when it rains, it pours, eh?

 

[TLars]

jmann -

any update on tranny behavior? I'm experiencing the same rpm flucuation. I don't tow anything and use my truck for around town driving with occasional jaunts on the highway. I'm seeing the rpm jumps when at consistent speeds at 50+ or if using cruise control the truck actually down shifts for about 3 seconds then goes back down. ????

 

[jmann]

Everything is pretty much the same. Just found out my bro-in-law had a similar issue in his 3/4 ton cummins ('01 ram, too). I wouldn't guess it would be the same problem given the different pickups, but his mechanic thought the wires to the torque converter were picking up current from the alternator wires. He had some rewiring done and the problem went away (and now it only occasionally occurs).

On the 1/2 tons, I've heard guys having success replacing the throttle position sensor, but I replaced mine and still have the issue. My next step is to test the voltage to the TPS while driving. Maybe there IS an issue with wires picking up currents off each other. Any ideas?

 

[jmann]

BTW - my fuel leak was no leak at all. It was actually a problem with the gas pump at the station. It allows fuel to run over before shutting itself off. The fuel then ran down the gas line over the fuel tank and dripped on the ground, giving the appearance of a fuel leak. Of course, the evidence on the tank and line dries up quickly, so it was hard to find where it was coming from.