My 98 Ram 1500 5.9 gas engine died at a light, just quit and wouldn't start. I replaced all distrubutor parts and coil, still no go. I hooked up an OBDII to it and it started and ran great till I unplugged it. Asked a dealer about it and he said never heard of such a thing and wanted $575 for a computer for it. I'd buy the OBDII for $275 first and keep it hooked up before that! lol Anybody have any ideas? Thanks, Jim

That's really really funky. The only thing I can think of is one of those "no-run" systems where you have to plug in the key for it to run.

That's really really funky. The only thing I can think of is one of those "no-run" systems where you have to plug in the key for it to run.


Not sure what you mean by a "no run" system, I was adjusting the cd player when it died though. It will still run with the OBDII plugged in but draws alot of amps. I'm thinking a short in the stereo maybe. Thanks for the info, any ideas are better than what I know now

There were some security systems that required a plug in-coded key for the vehicle to operate, and it plugged into a spot similar to the OBD port. Now that you've said the high voltage draw and adjusting the CD player, I'd look there first; I'd think there is an electrical pathway that is interrupted, and the OBD port is allowing some sort of backup.

There were some security systems that required a plug in-coded key for the vehicle to operate, and it plugged into a spot similar to the OBD port. Now that you've said the high voltage draw and adjusting the CD player, I'd look there first; I'd think there is an electrical pathway that is interrupted, and the OBD port is allowing some sort of backup.


I just went out and removed the radio fuse, same thing. I've also put the problem up in other forums, no-one seems to have heard of anything like it. I think it might be the CPM/PCM but wouldn't the OBD tell you that? OBD says PASS when I run it. Thanks again, Jim

I'm not too hot on the OBD(only used one once, with help).

I can say that a look at whatever wiring your disturbed while adjusting the cd might help. Good luck with it, sorry to not have more help....