How do I adjust the idle speed on my Ram diesel? The idle speed seems too high.
First, trace the accelerator linkage to the connection on the fuel pump. With the ENGINE OFF have someone floor the accelerator and watch the fuel arm move. The best position I can describe is that it is under and to the left of the fuel filter on the rear of the fuel pump. A Flashlight and a mechanics telescoping inspection mirror would best serve as your visual aids as there is little room to move around and get a view of this area.
Once you have located the fuel arm the idle adjustment bolt is where the fuel arm normally rests on. It is easier to see and adjust if you have someone hold the accelerator down. The 10mm bolt that the fuel arm rests on threads into the bracket that you see and has a 10mm lock nut on the underside of the bolt. Loosen the lock nut and adjust the bolt on top in for a lower idle speed and out to raise the idle. I have found that the truck works well with the idle set at 750 rpms and this is the first white line below the 1000 rpm mark on the tach. Start the engine and observe the idle speed and put the truck in gear (if automatic) and turn the AC on. If the truck doesn’t try to stall then you are set. Make sure that you tighten the locknut good when you get your desired idle speed.
An observation I have made. With the idle speed set below the factory set point it is easier to start the truck when you gently put some slight pressure on the accelerator while cranking the engine. Applying to much pedal will generate a a real smoke cloud so its an experimental thing that you need adjust by feel until you get it just right. Any confusion let me know.
