RAM 2500 Truck 2WD L6-5.9L DSL Turbo VIN 6 (1998)
Technical Service Bulletin # 18-11-99
Date: 990528
PCM - Slow Acceleration/Lack Of Power While Towing
NUMBER: 18-11-99
GROUP: Vehicle Performance
DATE: May 28, 1999
SUBJECT:
Slow acceleration or lack of power while towing or hauling a heavy load.
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Cummins CM551 Engine Control Module (ECM) with new software (calibration
changes 98CalT17 & 99CalT8B).
There is no change to the JTEC PCM software.
MODELS:
1998 - 1999 (BR/BE) Ram Truck
NOTE:
THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5.9L - 24V DIESEL ENGINE BUILT BEFORE ENGINE SERIAL
NUMBER 56587297 WITH A DATE OF ENGINE MANUFACTURE OF MAY 5, 1999. THIS INFORMATION IF AVAILABLE ON THE
ENGINE DATA PLATE, WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ENGINE, AFFIXED TO THE GEAR HOUSING.
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
There may be a condition of low power or slow acceleration when towing or when hauling a heavy load. This software change, to the Cummins CM551
diesel engine controller, will increase engine torque.
DIAGNOSIS:
Some 1998 BR/BE vehicles equipped with a 5.9L 24V diesel engine may already have the latest software revision. Verify that the ECM is at calibration
level 98T1 7 (p/n's 333034303J / 333035303J / 333036303J / 333037303J). If the calibration level is 98T17, then this TSB does not apply and further
powertrain diagnosis may be required.
Using the Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS/MDS2) and or the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DRB III(R)) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual,
verify all engine/transmission systems are functioning as designed. If Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are present, record them on the repair order and
repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin. If no DTC's are present, and the above symptoms have been experienced, perform the
Repair Procedure.
NOTE:
WHENEVER A ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) IS REPLACED DUE TO FAILURE, THE SOFTWARE OF THE REPLACEMENT
CONTROLLER MUST BE VERIFIED FOR THE LATEST REVISION LEVEL. USE THE FLASH PROCEDURE TO UPDATE REPLACED
CONTROLLERS AS NECESSARY.
PARTS REQUIRED:
1
04669020
Label, Authorized Software Update
1
04275086
Label, Authorized Modification
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
1
CH6OOO
Scan Tool (DRB III(R))
1
CH7035
General Purpose Interface Bus Cable (GPIB)
1
CH700017001
J1962 Cable
1
MDS1 or MDS2
NOTE:
THE MDS1/MDS2 AND DRB III(R) ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM PART OF THIS REPAIR. IF USING THE MDS1 AND DRB III(R) THE
MDS MUST BE OPERATING AT RELEASE 21 OR HIGHER AND TIL CD RELEASE 1184 OR HIGHER MUST BE INSTALLED. IF USING
THE MDS2 AND THE DRB III(R).
THE SYSTEM MUST BE OPERATING AT CIS CD2034 OR HIGHER.
POLICY: Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.