I have a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 with a Cummins diesel. I get in it, turn the key to the on position, all the lights on the dash flash, as they should. I turn it to turn the engine over and everything shuts off as if the battery died. The clicking noise comes on signaling the battery is dead. I hook up some jumper cables to a friends car and the batteries won't hold a charge. I was suspecting a short in the electrical system, but I'm not sure. I need major help.

Asked by Bryan Apr 25, 2013 at 08:30 AM about the 1998 Dodge RAM 2500 Laramie SLT Quad Cab LB 4WD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

2 Answers

35

Sounds like you need new batteries. Diesels require a lot more cranking power to turn over. If you replace the battery, or batteries, (my truck is also a diesel and has two) and the problem continues, you may have a bad starting solenoid. You will want to deal with this quickly. Bad batteries, and solenoids put extra strain on the starter and could cause it to fail. I would take your batteries to O'Reilly's and have them tested, take it from there. I hope this helps.

48,955

I agree put some batteries in it and go from there.

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