Problem starting 1999 Dodge Diesel

Since you know the starter is good, now have the alternator and battery tested. If these are both good (if either or both are bad, obviously replace) then try replacing the starter relay; this will prevent a car from even turning over.

Also, check all starter fuses, iginition fuses and relays.

Q: Does the engine turn over?

Q: Does the engine start, then die, or just turn over?

Q: If it turns over, does it sound weak, or does it sound strong, like it's trying to start?

Q: Have you tired jump starting the truck? If not try this: if it starts and stays running, pull both battery terminals off. If the truck dies, replace the alternator. If it stays running, you may need to replace the battery. Look at the battery and see if there is a date sticker on it to indicate when the battery was purchased (or manufactured). (If diesel, have both batteries tested). If diesel, if jumpstarting from one battery doesn't work try the other one. Also, if diesel, make sure there is at least 1/4 tank of fuel as some diesels won't start if very low on fuel (pump does not reach very bottom of tank and will not syphin fuel in).

If gas/diesel, and it turns over, turn the key to the on position and have someone lean down at the back side of the truck (driverside) and listen for the fuel pump to engage. If no noise is heard, consider replacing the fuel pump. Inquire with an auto parts dealers as to whether or not this truck is equipped with a secondary fuel pump (usually located mid-way on the chassi).

Please let me know if you need further assistance.

carsandcomps,

Guru, Premium Expert @ Fixya.com

just change the fuel pump they tend to go out fast in cold weather

SOUND LIKE DIESEL INJECTION PUMP IS DRY.YOU GOING TO HAVE TO USE A HAND HELD VACUUM PUMP.HOOK IT TO THE RETURN LINE FITTING AND DRAW FUEL INTO THE FUEL INJECTION PUMP.

just replace your alternator and you will be fine also you might check any wires hanging around just to make sure nothing touching the body ok goodluck

some models dont run when the key is turned on,but when the engine cranks the fuel pump starts running,

if idling rough sound like air in system.and your injection pump timing is off.

THE INJECTORS MAY BE CLOGGED OR YOU MAY HAVE WATER IN GAS FROM CONDENSATION FROM SITTING AND TEMP CHANGING OR POSSIBLE DEAD GAS

Diesel engines fire on compression alone (usually 400psi).The Truck may have air trapped in the fuel system.When you perform any fuel system repair on a diesel it is going to take alot of cranking to get the air out. You can take the breather loose and shoot a VERY small amount of starter fluid in the intake and it should start. Do not use starting fluid much as it can damage the engine. Good Luck.

Did you check to see if there is power to the glow plugs if not then that may be the problem and if there is power when you cycle the key not to start but for the plugs to warm up you may have a bad glow plugs.