My 96 ram 1500 died on the road. 5.9L, 171,000 miles. Changed cap,rotor,plugs,plug wires, magnetic pick up and coil. They needed it any way. Everything was original except for the plugs and long block changed out at 74,000 miles (warranty). Got spark and fuel pressure is at 40-45 psi when cranking. Timing acts like it is a 180 out but I checked for compression @ #1, valves closed on #1, rotor is in #1 position and timing mark lines up. When trying to start it has a strong gas smell like engine is flooding and it tries to fire. Any help???

The catalytic converter might be clogged.

What was wrong with the last engine?

last engine had thermostat stuck. smoked three cyls.and both heads cracked

I bet you the converter is clogged.

Hey Bleeddodge, thanks for the info. I broke the exhaust loose at the manifolds and it fired up enough to get it in the garage. I'll let you know if changing the conveter does it. It makes sense. I never thought of it being plugged.

Let us know how it goes and if you find anything else wrong.