QuestionQUESTION: Timing chain broke, Took the entire engine apart and replaced timing chain, head gaskets, manifold gaskets, valve gaskets and a couple more. Previously the oil was mucky color, but after all the gaskets the oil is perfect. The computer came out with code p0201 and a couple more, which all points to the #1 cylinder misfire. So the process was repeated and the piston was bent ever so slightly. Fixed that and put everything back. Started the truck and ran extremely rough. When the oil cap is removed there was some condensation in it and seemed more than usually amount of air coming out. Most all the idiot lights went on. Finally I replaced the computer and now I get no codes at all and the check gauges light came on, but after 3 -4 seconds the engine shuts off. I did this 5 times and the same 3 -4 seconds engine shuts off, the check gauges light is on the whole time. My question is. Can this be low oil pressure?, if so what could be causing that. I have been working on this truck for 2 months now.... Please help. Some said the computer that i replaced was either bad or needs to be programed. If the computer does need to be programed, how is that done... I also placed a code reader on the truck and no codes came up. Is it possible the reason no codes came up is do to the truck no running long enough? Thank you for your time.
ANSWER: I'm going to guess that the computer you installed was either used or that your Durango has a factory security system, which can be identified by the ignition key. A black plastic or all metal key is what you have, you don't have a security system. If the key has a grey plastic end them it does has the security feature. Which would be the reason for the start and stall condition. Let me know where you got the computer and what color the key is so I can help you. For now I'd put the old computer back in and see if the engine runs more than three seconds. Also, as a note, I don't have much faith in simple code readers. They tend to lead those that use them to spend more money and time chasing non-existent problems. You need a professional grade diagnostic code reader to repair most all vehicles these days.
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QUESTION: The computer was used. The reason for the change was due to the truck once put back together, gave all sorts of codes... Simple put it still says that cylinder #1 misfire, the abs brake light was on, oil light on and the check gauges light was on. When the computer was changed out the oil pressure was at low. The check gauges light came, which I thought was an indication of low oil pressure. So Today, I checked the oil, which was changed, and it seems to have some moister in it. It is not antifreeze, at least it doesn't smell like antifreeze. But it started up and 4 seconds shuts off and that "check gauges" light was the only one on. My key color is black. It does have automatic door locks, which I can lock and unlock from the key chain.
AnswerIt has always been my experience that installing a used computer never corrects a problem and, as in your case, creates more. Reinstall the old one, if you still have it, and throw the other one in the garbage where it belongs. With that said, I don't believe your root problem is computer related. Anytime a timing chain breaks bad, things happen to the engine. Broken pushrods, bent valves, shattered pistons or a bent crankshaft are among the possibilities. Your original question stated that you found and replaced a bent piston. If that is true then you would have also found what bent it, which should have been the valves. Did you have the cylinder heads checked while they were off the engine?
You appear to have a good bit of knowledge so I would advise you to recheck your mechanicals first. Verify the chain timing and perform a compression test before getting into the electrical diagnostics.
