DodgeForum.com

Dodge Ram 2009-Present: Short Runner Valve TSB

So, you have a dreaded CEL P1004 code? Here's the scoop.

By Jeffrey Smith - August 19, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (2009-Present).

The dreaded P1004 code is a result of a very common problem with your Ram. It is signaling that there is a problem with the short runner valve control. This greatly hinders performance, manifesting in greatly reduced horsepower.

The short runner valve is a bypass line that takes air from the plenum directly to the cylinder heads. This route is much shorter than going through the longer intake manifold. This bypass is controlled by a solenoid and an actuator. At rest, the solenoid keeps that valve closed and air passes through the longer intake manifold. When the solenoid is charged, it opens up that valve and the air goes through the short runner valve (SRV) system. There are various conditions that allow the solenoid to function properly, including the engine and coolant temperatures, load conditions, or other variables. If the triggering factors are not met with these variables, the solenoid will not charge and will not allow the SRV to operate properly. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the brains behind the system, calculating all these variables and makes the decision to either charge or not charge that solenoid. The PCM must be diagnosed to see which component is causing the breakage.

Component Breakdown

PCM

The PCM makes the calculations needed for proper air-fuel ratios, among other things powertrain-related. You will need to connect it to a computer to diagnose what is causing your CEL to come on. In some cases, the issue is as simple as loose cables. The underside of the PCM has three 32-wire quick clip wiring harnesses. Any one of these three may have pulled out slightly. Unplug and re-seat these wires to see if that clears your code and it doesn't return.

Figure 1. Check your wiring harnesses on the PCM.

SRV

The SRV unit is used to bypass the longer air hose for the intake manifold and brings the cold air from the plenum directly to the cylinder heads. This shortest route possible gives the Ram its extra go-power. It may not be noticeable working, but when it's broken, you certainly feel the lack of HP on giddy-up. There are numerous factors that can cause the SRV solenoid to remain closed and not actuate the bypass system. These factors are calculated and controlled by the PCM. It is possible that the actuator itself is malfunctioning and a diagnostics on the PCM will confirm this.

Figure 2. The SRV actuator or solenoid may be stuck shut from low voltage.

TSB

The technical service bulletin or TSB, specifically TB-18-016-09, addressed the issues with the SRV system for numerous vehicles including the Ram truck. The TSB gives direction to the dealership's maintenance professionals on how to remedy the problem. The company later came out with a follow-up TSB (18-003-10).

Figure 3. Chrysler released a TSB on the SRV issues.

Repairing SRV

SRV

The SRV needs to be removed and replaced with new P/N 53022137AF.

SRV Connector

The connector must be cut from the wires and discarded. Replace the connector with P/N 68064996AA.

SRV Wires

The original wiring was too short and was causing undue stress on the connector, creating a loose connection. This loose connection caused the faulty valve operation and as such, the wires and the valve had to be replaced. The TSB calls for splicing in 18 gauge wires to create a longer wiring harness. The new wiring harness must also be wrapped in abrasion resistant tape. The original TSB did not call for this step, which cause many repeat repairs.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

  • 18-016-09 05/15/209 - Electrical System, Engine and Engine Cooling
  • 18-003-10 01/15/2010 - Vehicle performance

Related Discussions and Site