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14-002-02 Rev A

Tampering with VP44 Fuel Pump on Cummins Diesel Engine

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Date: July 22, 2002

Models: 1998-2002 (BE/BR) Ram Trucks

NOTE: THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO 1998.5-2002 (BE/BR) RAM TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH THE 24-VALVE CUMMINS DIESEL ENGINE.

Discussion:
A number of the VP44 fuel pumps have been returned through the warranty process as a result of tampering. Generally, the customer complains that the vehicle died while driving. When diagnosed, there may or may not be Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) present. When OTC's are present, there may be one or more of the following:

DTC	P Code	Description
124	P 0234	Turbo boost limit exceeded
146	P 0217	Decreased engine performance due to engine overheat condition
361	P 0254	Fuel injection pump fuel valve current too high
363	P 0251	Fuel Injection pump mechanical failure fuel valve feedback circuit
364	P 1689	No Communication between ECM and injector pump module
375	P 0002	ECM fuel calibration error

Figures 1 and 2 below, show both a view of the pump itself (Fig. 1), which is located on the driver's side and toward the front of the engine. And, (Fig. 2) which shows the area where performance enhancing equipment is being connected into the outboard wire of the two wires that control operation of the metering solenoid in the pump. Another type of device places a connector between the metering solenoid harness and the upper connector on the pump. Telltale evidence can be seizure of the pump rotor, and/or cracked or overstressed pump cam ring. The protective sleeve around the two wires may be rolled or cut back to gain access for connection (Fig. 2), and the overhead console information center (if so equipped) may read out unrealistic fuel mileage numbers (30+).

NOTE. AS PER WARRANTY BULLETIN D-00-16, "INSTALLING AFTERMARKET ENGINE PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT PACKAGES OR COMPONENTS", INJECTION PUMPS THAT HAVE BEEN TAMPERED WITH ARE NOT WARRANTABLE.

Policy:    Information Only

Notes: The replacement cost for a VP44 from the dealer is around $3000. If DC determines that the pump has been tampered with, they will kick the bill back to the dealer and ultimately you. If you use one of the performance boxes on your truck, be aware of how much it can cost you!

This page was edited on: May 3, 2004