Home | Contact Us | FAQ | Search & Site Map | Link to Us
Sign In | Join | Other 45 Sites in Network
HomeAnnouncements
Discussion Groups
By Brand
BMWChevroletDodgeFordGMHondaLexusMercedes-BenzNissanPeugeotToyotaVolkswagenOther Brands
By Topic
4x4 CarsRVsDrivingMaintenance & RepairCar AudioCollectible Cars
Country Specific
Australian ForumsUK Forums
ArticlesAuto InsuranceBuyingCars & TechnologyMaintenanceMiscellaneousSafety
DMV Resources
Related Topics
MotorcyclesBoatsMore Topics ...

Car Forum / Dodge / Dodge Trucks / February 2007

Tip: Looking for answers? Try searching our database.

Cummins idle time

Thread view: 
Enable EMail Alerts  Start New Thread
Thread rating: 
sazrac - 07 Feb 2007 01:06 GMT
2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins

I recently started having problems with apparent missing, low power
and fuel mileage.  I took the truck back to the dealer to resolve the
problem, as I only have 2,500 miles on it.

The response from the dealer appeared very vague and left me
uncomfortable.  When I went to pick up the truck I made sure I found
the service manager to get a better explanation of the problem.  I
could tell from talking to him it was a problem that was frusterating
to him also.

The report I get is that I let the truck idle too much.  With some
recent design changes (in the last year or so), the Cummins trucks
apparently shouldn't be left to idle much.  It was reported to me an
acceptable idle was about 20% of running time, where-as my truck
showed about 33% idle time while running.  Apparently, idling to much
seems to gum up the injector system.  Cummins won't warranty the
problem.  The solution, according to the dealer, is a fuel system
cleaning, or flush, or what-ever.  The service guy let me know that
Cummins didn't consider it their problem, so the dealer's were having
to eat the cost of the fuel system cleaning, to the tune of $250.  The
guy told me this was the third late model Cummins diesel to come in in
a month with the same problem.  According to him, Cummins was aware of
the problem, was working on a solution, but was being vague in
acknowledging the problem as to not accept responsibility.

I mentioned to the guy that I thought diesels were generally used in
situations where long idle times were normal, and, that the owner's
manual encourages owners to let the engines idle in order to properly
coold the turbo.  I mentioned that in town driving involved lot's of
idle times.  He said Cummins response to that was that if that's the
type of driving one does, you should buy a gas vehicle.

Anyone have any opinion, or input?  I like my Cummins/Dodge, but it's
looking like after 2,500 miles, I might have picked the wrong vehicle.

sazrac
Brian - 07 Feb 2007 01:35 GMT
> 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>
[quoted text clipped - 34 lines]
>
> sazrac

I also have a 2006 Cummins, I live here in Alberta,CA and I have
installed a compustar remote start system and it idles for about 20-40
mins before i drive it and then for 2-5 mins too cool the turbo ..... it
has a built in high idler that kicks in after a little while of idling .
Also I work on the Drilling Rigs And their is times a service hand will
come out with a cummins and stay a day or two and the truck will idle
the whole time...I always ask if they have any problems with their
trucks and they all reply NO...
Thats just what I have seen up here..... I have always wondered about
idling these trucks for a long time .... hopefully some one here knows
more about it.
Sorry about my spelling/typing I don't care much for typing on a computer :)
Tom Lawrence - 07 Feb 2007 03:03 GMT
> showed about 33% idle time while running.  Apparently, idling to much
> seems to gum up the injector system.  Cummins won't warranty the
> problem.  The solution, according to the dealer, is a fuel system
> cleaning, or flush, or what-ever.  The service guy let me know that
> Cummins didn't consider it their problem, so the dealer's were having

First of all, tell your service manager he's full of sh.t.  Cummins doesn't
warranty the engine AT ALL...  Daimler Chrysler buys the engines from
Cummins with no warranty (cheaper that way), and they assume all warranty
responsibilities.  This crap of, "Oh, well, Cummins won't warranty it" is
nothing more than the service version of the salesman's, "my manager won't
go for that deal" ploy.

> to eat the cost of the fuel system cleaning, to the tune of $250.

Well, if that's what it costs to keep the engine performing as you expected
it to when you bought the truck, then they're just going to have to eat that
cost.  Drive that point home to them.  You purchased a vehicle from them,
and you're operating it as any normal and reasonable person would.  It's not
your problem that they can't make a fuel system to deal with normal consumer
use of a vehicle.

> Anyone have any opinion, or input?  I like my Cummins/Dodge, but it's
> looking like after 2,500 miles, I might have picked the wrong vehicle.

Yes - see above.  Get a little more assertive (not rude, but assertive).
Start talking about buy-backs, lemon law proceedings, etc.  Secondly - ask
them how any kind of gunk that builds up on an injector during period of
(relatively) low pressure can sustain over 23,000psi when operating at full
speed?  Also, if it's a clogging problem, ask why it's only affecting one
injector...  you've got a faulty injector, and for whatever reason, they're
trying to come up with reasons so they don't have to replace it.

You bought a truck from them with a 100,000 mile warranty on the engine.
You should expect them to honor that and fix the problem - not give you
made-up reasons why "the manufacturer" won't let them fix it.
rick505 - 07 Feb 2007 05:14 GMT
i have had diesels for a long time and it wont hurt it to idle. on the farm
our tractors idle for long periods my gm diesel pickup the same thing also
the dumptruck with a 350 big cam  cummins  i drive idles for long periods
on the job sight if that is the bullshit the service wrighter is saying
you need to go somewhere else to have work done the only thing that has
happoned to my stuff is it loads up a little but the first time i step
down on it they clean them selves out. now the 250.00 bucks how did they
clean the injectors did they pull them out or did they just put inj.
cleaner in your fuel tank and take it out for a ride
Roy - 07 Feb 2007 04:51 GMT
> 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>
[quoted text clipped - 34 lines]
>
> sazrac

As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you don't
already have it. IIrc you can bring the idle up to 1,200 rpm with the cruise
control buttons,
Big Al - 07 Feb 2007 05:02 GMT
> > 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
> >
> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you don't
> already have it. IIrc you can bring the idle up to 1,200 rpm with the cruise
> control buttons,

Only if it's automatic.

Al
GeekBoy - 07 Feb 2007 07:32 GMT
>> > 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>> >
[quoted text clipped - 5 lines]
>
> Only if it's automatic.

Huh? Plenty of stick shifts have cruse crontrol.

> Al
Chris Thompson - 07 Feb 2007 13:41 GMT
>>> > 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>>> >
[quoted text clipped - 7 lines]
>
> Huh? Plenty of stick shifts have cruse crontrol.

but a stick shift doesnt give the computer the required "in park" signal.
thats why the high idle with cruise buttons only works on a stick.

Signature

----------------------------
-Chris
05 CTD
06 Liberty CRD

Real Trucks don't NEED spark plugs.

>> Al
Roy - 07 Feb 2007 13:57 GMT
>>>> > 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>>>> >
[quoted text clipped - 10 lines]
> but a stick shift doesnt give the computer the required "in park" signal.
> thats why the high idle with cruise buttons only works on a stick.

With all the toy's they come up with a sensor when the parking brake was
applied shouldn't be a big deal.

Roy
> ----------------------------
> -Chris
[quoted text clipped - 4 lines]
>
>>> Al
Roy - 07 Feb 2007 13:36 GMT
>> > 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>> >
[quoted text clipped - 7 lines]
>
> Al

I wasn't aware of that.

Roy
Big Al - 07 Feb 2007 14:57 GMT
> >> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you
> >> don't
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
>
> Roy

I tried to have it done to my truck. Auto only:(

Al
Roy - 07 Feb 2007 15:19 GMT
>> >> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you
>> >> don't
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> I tried to have it done to my truck. Auto only:(

Not doubting you at all Al. I really wasn't aware that it couldn't been done
a standard. Seems a bit odd, I'm sure they could come up with a way to
safeguard it.

Roy
> Al
Nosey - 15 Feb 2007 02:43 GMT
>>>> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if
>>>> you don't
[quoted text clipped - 12 lines]
>
> Al

Al, I just came across this at the Cummins QuickServe website:

Clutch Switch Kit for the Dodge Ram
Warm Up Faster With Less Idling.

When you need to warm up your engine, you can warm up faster with our Clutch
Switch Kit. Designed for 2005 and newer Dodge Ram Turbo Diesels equipped
with manual transmissions, the Clutch Switch Kit uses your cruise control
button to provide the extra rpm you need. At the touch of a finger, you can
increase idle speed up to 1500 rpm. This way, you can warm up your engine
much faster with less idling and be ready to roll when you need to. It's
Even Better With A Jacobs Exhaust Brake®.

In a Dodge Ram equipped with a Jacobs Exhaust Brake, the Clutch Switch Kit
performs even better, with even faster warm-up times. Once your exhaust
brake is installed and turned on, the maximum engine speed during idle
warm-up will be limited to 1350 rpm, but the idle warm-up capabilities will
be significantly increased.

It's Easy To Operate.

Operating the Clutch Switch Kit on Dodge Rams with manual transmissions is
easy. As with standard models, the warm-up feature is deactivated when the
clutch pedal is depressed. Before putting the transmission into gear and
driving, the driver must make sure that the feature has been deactivated and
the engine has returned to normal idle speed. A quick glance at the rpm
gauge is all that is required.

Supports Anti-Idling Regulation.

If you reside in an area that has idling regulations, you will appreciate
the fact that your cab will reach warm-up temperature with less idling.

Every Benefit.

Faster warm-up with less idling
Easy to install by dealer
Easy to operate
Integrated with cruise control on steering wheel
Interfaces directly with Electronic Control Module (ECM)
Automatically deactivated when clutch pedal is depressed
Designed for simplicity and reliability
Does not affect engine warranty
Designed specifically for the Dodge Ram equipped with manual transmission

So why wait any longer? Ask for Cummins part number 408985100 (Mopar No.
05175417AA). This kit contains all the necessary components for
installation.*

Warm up fast with our Clutch Switch Kit for Dodge Ram pickups. Every Time.
For details, phone 1-800-DIESELS.

Jacobs Exhaust Brake is a registered trademark of Jacobs Vehicle Systems.

* Dodge dealer's electronic service tool is required to activate the Clutch
Switch Kit.
Bulletin: 4081625

Signature

Ken

Roy - 15 Feb 2007 03:35 GMT
>>>>> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if
>>>>> you don't
[quoted text clipped - 25 lines]
> up your engine much faster with less idling and be ready to roll when you
> need to. It's Even Better With A Jacobs Exhaust Brake®.
<snip>

Ask and you will recieve.<G>

Roy
> Ken
Nosey - 15 Feb 2007 08:46 GMT
I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast idle
system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
http://www.dieseltruckresource.com/dev/showthread.php?t=123156
Signature

Ken

Roy - 15 Feb 2007 13:02 GMT
>I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast idle
>system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
> http://www.dieseltruckresource.com/dev/showthread.php?t=123156

That's cool. I wish ya would find a way to make my nav system take me around
NYC instead of through it.<BG>

Roy
> Ken
Nosey - 15 Feb 2007 21:15 GMT
>> I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast
>> idle system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
[quoted text clipped - 4 lines]
>
> Roy

I too use the old analog nav system. I don't know much about yours. There
isn't any way to add stops along the way?
Signature

Ken

Roy - 15 Feb 2007 23:21 GMT
>>> I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast
>>> idle system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
[quoted text clipped - 7 lines]
> I too use the old analog nav system. I don't know much about yours. There
> isn't any way to add stops along the way?

Nope, I called Alpine they make them for DC. Miles has a revised disc, he
say's he will take a look at his and let me know. But it don't look good.

Roy
> Ken
Chris Thompson - 16 Feb 2007 00:22 GMT
>>>> I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast
>>>> idle system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
[quoted text clipped - 13 lines]
> Roy
>> Ken

makes my Garmin look better and better.....now if the damn thing would stay
stuck to the windshield.

Signature

----------------------------
-Chris
05 CTD
06 Liberty CRD

Real Trucks don't NEED spark plugs.

Roy - 16 Feb 2007 01:03 GMT
>>>>> I also found a thread on the DTR forum on how to build your own fast
>>>>> idle system for the 2nd gen diesel Rams.
[quoted text clipped - 16 lines]
> makes my Garmin look better and better.....now if the damn thing would
> stay stuck to the windshield.

Yup, if this thing would only work like the Garmin. I'm a hair away from
sticking mine on the dash. But it piss's me off that they stick this thing
on 99% of the srt's and they are so friggin' limited and ya pay a few bucks
for them as well.. I'm hoping for a fix so that it works like I think it
should. My oldest is on me to sell the Garmin to him but I'm not sure the
factory one can be changed with the updated disc.
Waitin' on Miles or sombody with a answer.

Roy
> ----------------------------
> -Chris
> 05 CTD
> 06 Liberty CRD
>
> Real Trucks don't NEED spark plugs.
Craig C. - 08 Feb 2007 16:25 GMT
> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you don't
> already have it. IIrc you can bring the idle up to 1,200 rpm with the cruise
> control buttons,

Missed that.  Enlighten me, please.

Craig C.
Roy - 08 Feb 2007 17:44 GMT
>> As was mentioned, there is a high idle flash that can be done if you
>> don't
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
>
> Missed that.  Enlighten me, please.

On my 05 they added a flash that allowed me to start the truck, hit cruise
and use the up down buttons to advance the idle. I think it went up to
1,200RPM(maybe higher, I forget). As I'm sure you know on cold day's letting
it idle, it warms up then cools itself right off. With the higher idle it
maintains operating temp.

Roy
> Craig C.
Craig C. - 08 Feb 2007 18:50 GMT
> On my 05 they added a flash that allowed me to start the truck, hit cruise
> and use the up down buttons to advance the idle. I think it went up to
> 1,200RPM(maybe higher, I forget). As I'm sure you know on cold day's letting
> it idle, it warms up then cools itself right off. With the higher idle it
> maintains operating temp.

Sorry if I'm being thick here:  By "they", you mean the dealership?
If so, I will call and see if this is an option for my 2004.  Was it
free?  (you can always depend on a college student to ask that
question).

:-)
Craig C.
Roy - 08 Feb 2007 21:32 GMT
>> On my 05 they added a flash that allowed me to start the truck, hit
>> cruise
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
> :-)
> Craig C.
The dealership, there was no charge. Check a list of tsb's and see if the 04
is included.

Roy
theguy@whatever.net - 09 Feb 2007 00:56 GMT
>> On my 05 they added a flash that allowed me to start the truck, hit cruise
>> and use the up down buttons to advance the idle. I think it went up to
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
>:-)
>Craig C.

it should be.  my 03 was included but i chose not to do it.  i did get
the flash though that ramps the idle up to 1200 rpm if you leave it
idling for a bit without touching the brake or the gas feed.
Carolina Watercraft Works - 08 Feb 2007 17:47 GMT
I think I recall seeing on the Cummins website that you shouldn't
idle for any longer than 15 minutes.  Wish I could find it again but
for some reason it is sticking in my head.

Signature

------------------------------------------
Laszlo Almasi
----Cool Toys (formerly Carolina Watercraft Works)
----Mack Daddy Trailers
----Ice Angels

> 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>
[quoted text clipped - 34 lines]
>
> sazrac
Carolina Watercraft Works - 08 Feb 2007 18:28 GMT
My bad...this is where I saw it:
http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/maint/3rd_Gen-24v.htm

Signature

------------------------------------------
Laszlo Almasi
----Cool Toys (formerly Carolina Watercraft Works)
----Mack Daddy Trailers
----Ice Angels

>I think I recall seeing on the Cummins website that you shouldn't
> idle for any longer than 15 minutes.  Wish I could find it again but
[quoted text clipped - 38 lines]
>>
>> sazrac
Roy - 08 Feb 2007 18:51 GMT
>I think I recall seeing on the Cummins website that you shouldn't
> idle for any longer than 15 minutes.  Wish I could find it again but
> for some reason it is sticking in my head.

Yup, that's why at the higher idle operating temp is maintained. Normal idle
it will cool off.
Roy
> ------------------------------------------
> Laszlo Almasi
[quoted text clipped - 40 lines]
>>
>> sazrac
Farmer John - 09 Feb 2007 00:50 GMT
Check on any recent recalls...

> 2006 quad cab 3500 w/Cummins
>
[quoted text clipped - 34 lines]
>
> sazrac
 
Sign In
Join
My Latest Posts
My Monitored Threads
My Blog
My Photo Gallery
My Profile
My Homepage

Start New Thread
Enable EMail Alerts
Rate this Thread



©2008 Advenet LLC   Privacy Policy - Terms of Use
This website includes both content owned or controlled by Advenet as well as content owned or controlled by third parties.