Fix It

Removal of the shifter boot in your Dodge Ram truck allows you to access the four bolts on top of the transmission retaining the shifter assembly to the transmission. The rubber boot may crack over time and require replacement as well. If this is the case, you can get a replacement from the dealer or through a salvage yard. If you remove the shifter boot and intend to reuse it, use care so you do not rip it as you pull it off the shifter shaft.

Instructions

1

Sit in the seat of your Dodge, sliding it all the way back to expose the shifter boot on the floor of the truck. Locate the metal ring on the floor surrounding the shifter boot.

2

Grasp the shifter knob on top of the shifter assembly, turn it counterclockwise to loosen it and remove it from the shifter shaft. Set the knob aside in a safe spot so you can put it back later.

3

Locate the screws in the metal ring on the floor around the shifter boot. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver, and set them aside.

4

Lift the ring, and pull the boot up the shaft. Pull the entire boot assembly off the top of the shifter shaft as a unit.

The 1998 Dodge pickup uses a crank sensor to feed detailed information to the power train control module to indicate the current position of the crankshaft as it rotates, as well as the crankshafts revolutions per minute (rpm). The crankshaft position sensors data determines when to fire the fuel injectors. On gasoline engines, it also determines when to fire the ignition coil to light the fuel-air mixture. Intermittent problems with the crankshaft position sensor cause hesitations and stalling of the vehicle. A continuous error with the crank sensor will prevent the vehicle from starting. Testing the crankshaft position sensor requires access to the sensor and plug.

Instructions

Gasoline Engines

1

Set the parking brake of the 1998 Dodge pickup truck. Pull the hood release handle. Open the hood.

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable. Loosen the 10 mm retaining nut on the battery cable clamp using a 10 mm wrench. Pry the battery cable off the negative battery post by twisting side to side by hand. The negative battery post has a "-" label next to it.

3

Stand on the passenger side of the truck. Place the work light next to the exhaust manifold as close as possible to the firewall.

4

Lean over the fender. Extend the telescoping inspection mirror in between the back of the cylinder head and the firewall.

5

Angle the mirror to inspect the edge of the transmission bell housing where it meets the engine block. A steel bracket secured by two 10 mm bolts with a three-wire harness retains the crankshaft position sensor, which reads gaps in a ring of the flywheel.

Diesel Engines

6

Open the hood of the 1998 Dodge pickup, and disconnect the negative battery cable using a 10 mm wrench.

7

Lie down face up on an automotive creeper, and slide under the drivers side of the vehicle just behind the tire, taking the wrench and the trouble light with you.

8

Hang an automotive trouble light underneath the vehicle.

9

Remove the three 10 mm bolts retaining the starter to the transmission bell housing using a 10 mm wrench. Remove the starter.

10

Look directly between the engine block and the location from which you removed the starter. The crankshaft position sensor is a black plastic sensor with an aluminum retaining bracket held in place by a single 10 mm bolt. The crank sensor has a three-wire harness plugged into it.

The first Dodge Rams rolled out of the factory in 1981, and Dodge has continued to improve and redesign its heavy-duty pickup truck ever since. Dodge introduced the current generation of Rams in 2009. The 2010 Ram was available in several two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive trims in the 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 weight classes. However, the toe-in specs were the same for all trims of the Ram 1500. Likewise, all other trims of the 2010 Dodge Ram shared the same toe-in specs.

Toe

The toe of a wheel ers to the angle of the wheel in relation to the vehicles centerline. If the front of a wheel is angled inward toward the centerline, then the wheel has toe-in. If the front of a wheel angles outward away from the centerline, then the vehicle has toe-out. Most vehicles are designed for the wheels to toe in slightly. Toe is the most important alignment spec in terms of tire wear. If a wheel has the toe misaligned by just a fraction of a degree, it can significantly reduce the life of a tire. The toe is adjustable on the front ends of all trims of the 2010 Dodge Ram. It is not adjustable on the rear because the Rams come with a fixed rear axle. The specs provided below apply only to the 2010 Dodge Ram and should not be used on other model years, because alignment specs can change from year to year.

The 2010 Ram 1500

The same toe-in specs apply to all two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive trims of the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500, regardless of whether the truck came with 17-inch tires or 20-inch tires. The ideal toe-in setting is +0.1 degrees but it can vary by 0.36 degrees in either direction.

All Other Trims and Models of the 2010 Ram

All other trims of the 2010 Dodge Ram, including the Ram 2500, the Ram 3500, the Ram 3500 Heavy Duty Chassis-Cab, the Ram 4500 Heavy Duty Chassis-Cab and the Ram 5500 Heavy Duty Chassis Cab, came with the same toe-in specs. The specs were the same for Box Off and standard trims. The ideal setting for the toe-in is +0.2 degrees but it can range by 0.1 degree in either direction.

If you have lost the keys that came with your Dodge truck, you can contact a locksmith and they can attempt to cut a new key for you. However, they usually replace the lock cylinder in the doors and in the steering column. This can cost hundreds of dollars. There is a simpler and less expensive way to replace the key for your Dodge pickup truck.

Instructions

1

Locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the dash through the lower corner of the window on the drivers side of the vehicle. The VIN number is also on your vehicle title, insurance card and registration card.

2

Contact your local Dodge dealership and confirm that they have the ability to cut you a new key. Most dealerships offer repair services.

3

Take your VIN number to the dealership. They can use the VIN number to look up the key code needed to duplicate your key.

The evaporator core, or heater core in a 2003 Dodge van is a radiator that contains hot coolant. The coolant circulates through the heater core when the heater is turned on, warming the interior of the van.

Instructions

1

Remove the negative battery cable with a socket wrench, and wait two minutes. This allows the capacitor in the airbag system to discharge, and prevents the airbag from deploying. Discharge the rigerant in the air conditioning system, and detach evaporators suction line jumper.

2

Remove the mounting screws that attach the heater to the air conditioning unit with a socket wrench. Push the mounting bracket and rigerant lines out of the way to gain access to the heater.

3

Detach the wiring harnesses for the fin sensing cycling clutch switch, blower motor resistor and blower motor relay. Cover the alternator with a shop cloth to prevent coolant from spilling on it. Drain the coolant in the radiator into a clean container for later use.

4

Disconnect the coolant hoses from the heater with a socket wrench. Remove the right headlight assembly, support assembly for the right radiator core, support panel for the right cowl grille and the grille panel. Disconnect the screws that attach the heater housing to the blower motor housing.

5

Disconnect the door motor link from the distribution duct in the passenger compartment. Use a socket wrench to remove the nuts in the glove compartment that fasten the heater to the dashboard.

6

Remove the stamped nut in the engine compartment that connects the heater housing to the dashboard with a socket wrench. Detach the heater housing from the housing for the blower motor. Pull the heater housing from the dashboard so that the door link clears the hole in the dash panel. Remove the heater housing from the vehicle.

7

Remove the pivot shaft nut from the blend-air door of the heater housing with a socket wrench. Pivot shaft nut. Detach the mounting flange boot and lever from the blend-air door. Disconnect the motor relay and its mounting bracket from the high-speed blower motor on the heater housing. Disconnect the screws from the top cover of the heater housing with a socket wrench, and remove the cover.

8

Remove the screw that fastens the tube support bracket for the heater core to the mounting boss. Remove the heater core from its housing.

9

Place the new heater core into its housing, and fasten its support bracket to the mounting boss with the retaining screw. Tighten the screw to 20 inch-pounds with a torque wrench.

10

Complete the installation of the new heater core by performing steps two through seven in reverse order. Attach the suction line jumper for the evaporator, and charge the air conditioner with rigerant. Connect the cable for the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench.

The Dodge Charger debuted in 1966. Marketed as a muscle car, the Charger appealed to both young and old during its 12-year production run. Dodge manufactured a subcompact car bearing the Charger name from 1983 to 1987. In 2006, Chrysler brought back the full-size sedan, which adopted many styling cues from the 1960s Chargers. The third-generation Charger features a Chrysler 3.5-liter V-6 or Hemi V-8 engine and a number options and accessories. Although some accessories are nearly impossible to repair or replace, removal of the ashtray requires only a few basic tools.

Instructions

1

Pry up the chrome ring from around the shift lever using a tapered fiber stick or a small protected flat-blade screwdriver. Remove the ring, and set it aside.

2

Remove the rubber mat from the center console, and set it aside.

3

Remove the two screws that hold the shift lever bezel.

4

Pry up the shift lever bezel using a fiber stick or a small protected flat-blade screwdriver. Remove the bezel, and set it aside.

5

Apply the parking brake, and move the shift lever to "Drive."

6

Pry off the ashtray housing using a tapered fiber stick or small protected flat-blade screwdriver. The housing is held in with clips on the side; you may have to rock the housing slightly to slide it over the clips. Remove the housing, and set it aside.

7

If the Charger has heated seats, disconnect the wire harness to the switches. Tilt the ashtray, and remove it from the opening.

The Dodge RAM is a series of pickup trucks in a variety of carrying capacities and trim levels. The 1997 models use multi-port fuel injection to deliver fuel to the engine under high pressure. The fuel pump in these vehicles is part of a module that also includes the fuel gauge sending unit and float. The fuel pump module in a 1997 Dodge RAM is attached to the top of the fuel tank, so you must disconnect the fuel tank to install a new fuel pump.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the negative battery cable with a socket wrench to ensure you dont inadvertently attempt to start the engine. Open the filler cap for the fuel tank to relieve the pressure in the fuel tank and remove the cap from the fuel pressure port on the fuel rail.

2

Attach a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel pressure port and place the open end of the pressure gauges hose into a gasoline container. Open the pressure gauge to relieve the fuel pressure in the fuel system. Remove the pressure gauge from the fuel pressure port and replace the cap.

3

Pump the fuel from the fuel tank into a gasoline container with a hose. Raise the vehicle with a floor jack and support it with jack stands. Disconnect the fuel line and electrical connection from the fuel gauge unit. Remove the mounting screws for the filler tube assembly with a socket wrench and disconnect the filler tube from the fuel tank.

4

Support the fuel tank with a transmission jack and remove the nuts for the fuel tanks mounting straps. Lower the tank slightly with the transmission jack so you can detach the fill hose and vent hose to the fuel tank. Remove the electrical connections for the fuel tank. Disconnect the evaporative emissions line and the fuel supply line. Remove the fuel tank from the vehicle.

5

Disconnect the fuel line to the fuel pump module. Clean the fuel tank around the fuel pump module with the shop towel to ensure that debris doesnt fall into the fuel tank when you replace the fuel pump.

6

Turn the locking ring for the fuel pump module counterclockwise with a socket wrench. Remove the locking ring from the fuel pump module, and clean the fuel filter at the bottom of the fuel pump module. Discard the gasket for the fuel pump module.

7

Install the new fuel pump module and its gasket by performing steps three through six in reverse. Tighten the locking ring for the fuel pump module to 40 ft-lbs. with a torque wrench. Fill the fuel tank with fuel and connect the negative terminal for the battery with a socket wrench.

The catalytic converter is an emissions device that prevents unburned fuel in the exhaust from escaping the vehicle and entering the atmosphere. Catalytic converters first hit the market in the early-1970s, but the U.S. Government made them mandatory on all cars starting in 1976. When a catalytic converter goes bad, it is not only bad for the environment, but it can also lead to you vehicle running very poorly. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to replace the catalytic converter on the 1988 Dodge Daytona.

Instructions

1

Raise the front of the Daytona, using the floor jack. Support the vehicle by placing the jack stands beneath it, perably under the sub-frame or another secure part of the vehicle. Slowly lower the Daytona until its weight is held only by the jack stands.

2

Crawl beneath the Daytona until you reach the exhaust system. Locate the heat shield, the metal cover over the exhaust, near the underside of the front seats. Loosen and remove the four bolts holding the heat shield in place, using the ratchet and socket. Pull the heat shield from the underside of the vehicle, exposing the catalytic converter beneath it.

3

Trace the catalytic converter toward the front of the vehicle until you locate the flange where it bolts to the front exhaust pipe. Loosen and remove the two nuts holding the catalytic converter to the front pipe, using a ratchet and socket. Pull the converter towards the rear of the vehicle, until it is clear of the studs on the front pipe, and pull the front of the converter down.

4

Trace the converter toward the rear of the exhaust until you locate where it is clamped to the rear exhaust pipe. The clamp is a basic U-shaped clamp. Loosen and remove the nuts at the bottom of the exhaust clamp, using a ratchet and a socket, and pull the clamp off. Pull the catalytic converter toward the front of the vehicle until it is free from the pipe. A light tapping on the pipe with the rubber mallet may help the removal.

5

Trace the catalytic converter until you locate the rubber hanger on the passenger side of the converter. While holding the converter, pull the rubber hanger from the converter. Once removed, lower the catalytic converter to the ground.

6

Place the new converter under the vehicle and place the rubber hanger on the passenger side of the converter, just as it was on the old catalytic converter.

7

Place the exhaust flange gasket on the end of the front pipe of the catalytic converter. Push the converter into the front exhaust pipe and hand-tighten the nuts on the studs.

8

Insert the rear pipe on the catalytic converter into the rear exhaust pipe, place the new exhaust clamp over the rear exhaust pipe and hand-tighten the nuts.

9

Tighten the front pipe nuts with a ratchet and socket, until the flange gasket is slightly crushed between the catalytic converter pipe and the exhaust pipe.

10

Tighten the exhaust clamps nuts until the rear catalytic converter pipe and the rear exhaust pipe are held together.

11

Place the heat shield back in place and tighten the bolts, using the ratchet and socket.

Chrysler manufactures trucks under the Dodge brand, including compact trucks, midsize trucks and full-size pickups. The procedure for changing the oil pump on a Dodge truck depends upon the type of engine in the truck. Dodge trucks have a variety of engines, with a six-cylinder, 3.9-liter engine being typical for a 96 Dakota. The oil pump for this engine is attached to the rear bearing cap, which is accessible from beneath the vehicle.

Instructions

1

Detach the cable from the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. Raise the vehicle with a jack and support it on jack stands. Place a drain pan below the oil drain. Remove the plug for the oil drain with a socket wrench. Allow the oil to drain into the pan and replace the drain plug.

2

Disconnect the mounting bolts for the oil pan with a socket wrench. Remove the drain pan and discard the gasket. Remove the screen for the oil pump with a socket wrench. Disconnect the bolts that fasten the oil pump to the rear main bearing cap. Detach the oil pump from the vehicle.

3

Pour clean engine oil into the intake of the new oil pump. Turn the driveshaft of the oil pump manually until the oil exits the pressure port of the oil pump. Continue turning the driveshaft until no air bubbles are present in the oil.

4

Hold the oil pump against the rear main bearing cap and tighten the mounting bolts to 130 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Connect the screen to the oil pump. Mount a new gasket to the oil pan and install the oil pan.

5

Lower the vehicle and connect the cable to the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. Check the vehicle for oil leaks.

After you have retrieved the transmission code on your 95 Dodge Intrepid and had the transmission repaired, the code should reset itself. However, this is not always the case. You might see a warning light on the instrument panel even after the vehicle has been repaired. To reset the transmission code and shut off the light, either disconnect the battery or clear the code using an OBD I scan tool. It is better to use the scan tool because disconnecting the battery will erase all of the computers codes and you will have to reset the radio, clock, alarm and other components.

Instructions

1

Plug the OBD I scan tool into the port under the drivers side dashboard near the steering column. Dont force it in. Just turn it until it fits so you dont damage the pins.

2

Put the key into the ignition and turn it to the "On" position, but dont crank the engine. Wait while the scan tool retrieves the codes.

3

Find and select the "Delete Codes" option. This will clear the transmission codes as well as other trouble codes. The computer is now reset. Unplug the scan tool from the port.

4

Start the engine and verify that all warning lights have shut off of the instrument panel.

The oxygen sensor is an integral part of your Dakotas emissions system. It monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust. When an O2 sensor fails, your Dakota may hesitate or your fuel mileage may noticeably decrease. If your Check Engine light comes on, the O2 sensor may be to blame. Most auto parts stores will scan the computer for you to determine the problem at no cost. Purchase replacement sensors from an auto parts store or Dodge dealership.

Instructions

1

Lift your Dakota using a jack. Secure the truck on a set of jack stands so that you can comfortably work under it.

2

Locate the downstream oxygen sensor on the pipe behind the catalytic converter, running beside the frame rail. Disconnect the wiring from the sensor by pulling it straight out of the connector. Remove the O2 sensor using an oxygen sensor socket and a ratchet.

3

Install the replacement sensor with the oxygen sensor socket and the ratchet, turning it clockwise until it is secure. Torque the sensor to 22 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Connect the wiring harness to the sensor by plugging it into the connection on the sensor.

4

Locate the upstream O2 sensors on either side of the transmission oil pan. There is an exhaust pipe running on each side of the pan with sensors in each one. Disconnect the wiring harness from each of the sensors then remove the sensors with the oxygen sensor socket and ratchet.

5

Install the new sensors in each location using the oxygen sensor ratchet. Torque the sensors to 22 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Attach the wiring harness to the sensors by plugging them straight into the connections on the sensors.

6

Raise the vehicle up with the jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the vehicle to the ground.

Dodge introduced the Caravan in 1983 and still manufactures the vehicle. This minivan was equipped with a 3.3 liter V6 engine that had an output of 158 brake horsepower, which is pretty impressive for a family car. The V6 engine was designed to have two head gaskets, one on each side of the block. The head gaskets must occasionally be replaced because a blown or a leaking head gasket may cause bad engine performance.

Instructions

1

Drain the cooling system and disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove the intake manifold and throttle body. Disconnect the coil wires, sending unit wire, heater hoses and by-pass hose. Remove the closed ventilation system, evaporation control system and cylinder head covers.

2

Remove the exhaust manifolds. Remove the rocker arm and shaft assemblies. Remove the push rods and identify each one of them to ensure re-installation in the original locations. Remove the nine head bolts from each cylinder head, and remove the cylinder heads.

3

Inspect the surface of the cylinder head. Remove the old head gasket. Before cleaning, check for leaks, damage and cracks. Clean the cylinder head and oil passages. Check the cylinder head for flatness. Inspect all surfaces with a straightedge if you suspect leakage. If out of flatness exceeds 0.00075 inches, either replace the head or lightly machine the head surface.

4

Clean all debris, coolant and dirt from the engine block cylinder head bolt holes. Failure to remove all foreign material may result in improperly tightened fasteners, damaged threads or damage to components. Install the new head gasket. To re-install all parts, follow the same operation in reverse.

The steering gear in a 1998 Dodge Ram is the box that mounts onto the frame of the truck and connects the steering column to the steering linkage. The gears used to make the connection can wear down to the point that they are no longer effective. To fix the issue, you need to rebuild the steering gear or replace it entirely. First though, you have to remove it from the frame.

Instructions

1

Park the Ram with the front wheels pointing straight. Crawl under the front of the Ram. Remove the power steering lines running to the steering gear with a line wrench.

2

Pop the hood. Unbolt the steering coupler from the steering gear with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Unbolt the pitman arm bolt from the bottom of the steering box with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Remove the pitman arm from the steering gear using the pitman arm puller.

3

Unbolt the steering gear from the frame with the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket and an open-end wrench. Take the steering gear off the frame and out from under the Ram.

The Dodge Caravan is a family minivan made by Chrysler since 1984. The Grand Caravan has a longer wheelbase than the Caravan and most often has a 6-cylinder, 3.3-liter engine. The water pump in the 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan is attached to the front of the engine and receives power from the engine with a belt and pulley. The replacement of the water pump in this vehicle also requires you to drain the radiator.

Instructions

1

Allow the engine to cool completely to ensure the coolant will not cause injury. Remove the negative battery cable with a socket wrench to prevent anyone from starting the engine inadvertently.

2

Place a drain pan beneath the drain hole for the radiator. Remove the radiator drain plug to drain the coolant into the drain pan. Replace the radiator drain plug.

3

Disconnect the right splash shield from the engine with a socket wrench and remove the accessory drive belt. Unfasten the mounting bolts for the water pump pulley and position the pulley between the drive hub and the water pump. Remove the mounting bolts for the water pump and detach the water pump from the engine.

4

Install a new seal into the housing groove on the new water pump. Mount the new water pump to the engine and torque the mounting bolts to 105 in.-lbs. with a torque wrench. Fasten the mounting bolts for the water pump pulley and tighten them to 250 in.-lbs. Turn the water pump manually to ensure it rotates freely.

5

Install the accessory drive belt and right splash shield for the engine. Connect the cable for the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. Fill the radiator with coolant and start the engine. Check and correct any leaks in the cooling system.

Gauges on the instrument panel of your vehicle serve as safety indicators for speed, fuel and engine malfunction. The first padded instrument panel was introduced in 1956 as part of a safety campaign by Robert McNamara. Fast forward to the 2000s and all symbols on the instrument panel flash briefly upon starting, but a light that is constantly on or flashing needs immediate attention.

Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light

According to the Dodge Charger owners manual, the lightning bolt symbol on a Dodge Charger is the indicator for the electronic throttle control. The electronic throttle control regulates engine idle speed, traction control and cruise.

Warning Indicator Solid Light

If the lightning bolt on the instrument panel lights up and stays lit when the engine is running, stop the vehicle as soon as possible. The vehicle will be drivable, but see an authorized dealer without delay.

Warning Indicator Flashing Light

If the electronic throttle control light is on solid, completely stop the vehicle and put it in park. The warning light should turn off by cycling the ignition key. If the light comes on again and flashes when the engine is running, the car should be immediately serviced. The engine could stall or have a very rough idle and may need to be towed.

The Dodge Ram Sport is a full-sized pickup truck made by Chrysler. The 1999 model year represented the end of the second generation for the Dodge Ram Sport. Like all trucks, the Ram takes a lot of abuse due to the design and intended use of the truck. One of the components that will eventually need servicing is the exhaust system. The stock exhaust on a 1999 Dodge Ram Sport will need to be removed if you want to upgrade it to a stainless steel exhaust. However, many people remove the exhaust to replace it because of corrosion or damage caused by road salt.

Instructions

1

Place a jack stand under the exhaust piping at various intervals to support the exhaust while you remove it.

2

Unbolt the exhaust to manifold bolts located at the front of the exhaust system. You may need to use an extended handle on the socket wrench, called a "breaker bar," to apply additional leverage on the bolts to remove them.

3

Disconnect the electrical wiring on the O2 sensors on the exhaust. These are plug-style connectors that pull right off.

4

Separate the exhaust piping from the manifold. It should pull right apart, but depending on where you live and the condition of the piping, you may need to pry the joint apart with a large flat-tip screwdriver.

5

Slide the exhaust piping and muffler off the rubber exhaust hangers on the underbody of the Dodge and drop the exhaust down gently onto the ground.

The rear shocks on your Dodge Ram can be replaced with KYB shocks. KYB offers shocks that are more durable than the stock units. Shocks should be replaced every 75,000 miles. However, the extra weight while towing in the rear will decrease the life expectancy of the rear shocks. KYB shocks may be purchased online or at any auto parts store. Because there are only two mounting bolts at each shock, installation can be done yourself.

Instructions

1

Locate the spare tire lowering tool under the seat of your vehicle.

2

Insert the end into the rotating socket found between the tailgate and the rear bumper. Rotate the tool until the spare tire is lowered to the ground. Remove the spare tire.

3

Locate the mounting bolts on the shock absorbers. Spray penetrating fluid on the bolt and the nut and allow it to sit for 10 minutes.

4

Loosen and remove the bolts with a ratchet and 13/16-inch socket. There is no need to hold the nut on the opposite side with a wrench as it is designed to hold itself by utilizing a tab on the nut. Keep the bolts and nuts for re-installation of the new shocks.

5

Pull the shock from the mounting brackets.

6

Place the KYB shock into the brackets. Install the bolts and thread the nuts on the opposite sides.

7

Tighten the bolts with a 13/16-inch socket and a ratchet.

8

Repeat these steps to the opposite side of the vehicle.

9

Replace the spare tire and rotate the tool to lift it back under the vehicle. Place the tool back under the seat.

The muffler on the 1998 Dodge 3500 Diesel is the main component that prevents the diesel engine running too loud. The exhaust pipe that is attached to the exhaust manifold on the front of the engine travels under the truck and into the muffler. As the sound of the engine travels through the muffler, the baffles inside of the muffler cause the sound to exit in a quieter manner. Over time, the excessive heat that travels through the muffler, will cause the inside of the muffler to rust and not perform properly.

Instructions

1

Park your 1998 Dodge 3500 Diesel on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Wait one to two hours for the muffler and the exhaust system to cool down.

2

Slide under the rear of the truck and locate the front of the muffler. The exhaust pipe that travels from the engine is mounted to the front muffler port by a metal clamp with two mounting bolts.

3

Saturate the two mounting bolts completely with the rust inhibitor spray or the penetrating oil. Position a socket and a breaker bar onto one of the mounting bolts. Slowly turn the bolt counterclockwise to see how tight the bolt is fastened. If the bolt is still tight, spray more of the rust inhibitor or the penetrating oil on the mounting bolts and repeat the process with the breaker bar and socket until the bolt is loose. Follow the same step with the other mounting bolt. Once the bolts are loose, use a ratchet to finish unscrewing the bolts.

4

Finish loosening and removing the two mounting bolts from the clamp with a ratchet and a socket. Pull the mounting bolts out of the clamp and knock the clamp off of the muffler port with a hammer.

5

Slide the end of a flathead screwdriver into the end of the muffler. Pry the end of the muffler port upward off the exhaust pipe. Make sure the entire front muffler port is pried up off of the exhaust pipe. Try and pull the muffler loose from the exhaust pipe. If the muffler is still stuck, use the hammer to tap the front of the muffler loose from the exhaust pipe.

6

Pull the muffler off the rubber hanger that holds the muffler in place. Slide the muffler out from under the truck. Position the new muffler under the truck and into the rubber hanger.

7

Slide the front port of the muffler over the exhaust pipe. Reconnect the clamp over the exhaust clamp and the muffler with the two mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts down tight with the ratchet and socket. Finish torquing the mounting bolts with the breaker bar and a socket.

To access the radio or instrument cluster wiring, you will need to remove the dashboard on your 2010 Dodge 3500. Or if the dash is cracked or faded from use, you may want to replace it with a new or used one in good condition that can be found at an auto wrecking yard. The dashboard is comprised of several panels, some overlapping each other. You can remove the dash from your home garage using a couple of inexpensive and readily available tools.

Instructions

1

Set the emergency brake and shift vehicle into low gear. If you have an automatic transmission, put in park. Tilt the steering column down.

2

Unscrew the four screws on the lower and upper part of the instrument cluster using a Phillips-head screwdriver. Pry around the edge of the plastic that is above the steering column and around the radio and A/C controls using a flat-head screwdriver.

3

Pull out the plastic piece, known as a bezel, until it detaches from its clips. Unplug the electrical wiring behind it.

4

Find the knee bolster and remove the screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver. The knee bolster is a panel on the lower part of the dashboard near the drivers knees. In the event of an accident, it absorbs the forward-motion energy of the drivers body, thus lessening the force of an impact. Pry off their clips along the top with a flat-head screwdriver. Disconnect the link clip for the parking brake. The link clip is a U-shaped piece underneath the parking brake lever.

5

Open the glove box and unscrew all the screws. Pull the surrounding panel away from the glove box and unplug the electrical wires behind it.

6

Locate the passengers side of the instrument panel and pry off the end cap with a flat-head screwdriver. An end cap is a little circular plastic piece that covers the head of a screw to protect it and to make it look more aesthetically pleasing. Unscrew the screw behind it. Unscrew the final eight screws along the top and bottom of the dash and pull out the glove box and panel.

When one of the sensors on the 1998 Dodge Caravan stops working or senses incorrect information, the computer sends a code to the data link connector and turns the check engine light on to alert the driver that there is a problem. You can extract the codes with a code scanner, which is available at any auto parts store. The code scanner comes with a code sheet that tells the consumer what each code means.

Instructions

1

Repair the problem as dictated by the code scanner. If you try to erase the codes and reset the computer before the problem is fixed, the computer will send the code and turn the engine light on again.

2

Plug the code scanner into the data link connector, which is under the dash and just to the left of the steering column.

3

Press the "Erase" button on the code scanner to erase the codes and reset the computer. Remove the code scanner plug-in from the data link connector.