Tempature gage does not work

Usually on idle (warm engine) this is OK.

Hi,
I found this page in a dodge forum addressing this problem with testing procedures from dodge/chrysler corp.
http://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-ram-van/86523-error-code-no-bus-on-2000-ram-van-1500-a.html
Hope this will help, please rate this answer! Thanks, Mike

I think you should start thinking it might not be the gage itself but >Problem with the wires in the circuit itself Also warm car up take a thermometer & check coolant tempature cross referance with temp gauge in the car

you could have a sensor problem that needs replacing that controls the temp gage,if this isn`t the problem then you could have a head gasket starting to go bad.make sure there is nothing blocking the air flow in front of the rad.

coolant temp sensor ?? is either on thermostat housing or in side of head

May be flooded = Try holding the gas pedal to the floor when cranking it, this will put the system into a ' clear flood ' mode. You my also scan the PCM to see if the Tempature reading from the sensor reads right when it's cold. If that's sending the wrong info to the PCM, it won't enrich the fuel mixture to start right. I assume he's putting gas treatment in.

check or replace the thermostat. it may be sticking closed. have a good day!! and make sure coolant is at proper level.

did you try the pick up coil? Thats what was wrong with my ram when it did the same thing

check the map senser

Your truck does not have to be low on water to be running hot...you need to verify the tempature of the cooling system, and the head temp...then you will be albe to tell if it is actually overheating , or just an indication problem. Be very careful as hot engine coolant can scald you badly (know from experience)