[Aaron 4.6]

Hi all-

I just recently received a low mileage 1992 R/C from my old man who upgraded to a new 1500 Ram. I am working my way down the gripe list and I need some help with one.

The truck has a Check Engine light in the gauge cluster, but it also has a Maint Req'd light in the center display that is illuminated. My Dad 'thinks' that the light came on at 60k, so he assumed that it was a factory setting to make you come in for a $500 screwing that only nets you new plugs and an oil change.

Is there any way to get that light turned off short off pulling it out? I searched the archives and found no info here. Just wondering if this is something Autozone could reset with a scan tool or if there is a connection I can jumper to kill that thing.

Thanks for any help.

 

[78machowgn4me]

i'd say take it to a trusted source and have them take a look. if the repairs are minor, or you feel they are unnecesary just get them to turn the light off with one of them fancy computer doo-hickys.

 

[CLRracer]

the light comes on when u need to check/replace the O2 sensor, pcv valve, and/or egr valve service these things first. behind the glove box is the thing that makes the light come on when its supposed to, there is a place for a really small screwdriver to reset it, kinda like resetin the old gaming systems with a toothpic. welcome to the site!

Duane

 

[TaZMaNiaK]

The Main't Req'd light is just a reminder that comes on every 60k or so to remind you to check out the O2 senson, EGR, and other emissions components. It doesn't mean anything is wrong. The bad thing is, though, the module behind the glove box is only in pre-88's. '88 + it is in the computer, and you need a scan tool to reset it. If you know someone who has one, it takes 2 seconds. Otherwise, just pull the bulb before your cluster melts.

Matt {peace}

 

[CLRracer]

i think its still behind the glove box Taz, not sure though. i changed the stuff on my 90 and the light just went out

Duane

 

[Cooter]

I was wondering about that too, it's on in my g/f's '91 Ram. I'll look for the "reset" .... or pull the bulb out, one or the other

 

[TaZMaNiaK]

I just checked in my '89 and there's no module. If you have a Haynes manual, it's on page 1-36, section 51.

The Emissions Maintainance Reminder module is located in the right side of the instrument panel, next to the glove box. On 1988 and earlier models, the light can be reset by inserting a small screwdriver blade or rod into the hole in the module and depressing the reset switch. On 1989 and later models, resetting the EMR light requires a special tool (Chrysler DRB-II tester, or eqivalent). After performing the emissions service, take the vehicle to a Chrysler dealership service department or other properly equipped repair facility to have the light reset.

Unless you put an LED in that socket, take the bulb out until it is reset. Almost every truck cluster I've seen (with the exception of my 89) has that compartment and lens melted from the bulb being on constantly.

How long after you changed the stuff did the light "just go out"? I think it just burned out by coinkydink.. Check it next time you have the cluster out...

Matt {peace}

 

[Chump]

According to this, it's part of the SBEC

Emission Maintenance Reminder Indicator

This Emission Maintenance Reminder (EMR) System is incorporated into the engine controller. The controller stores vehicle mileage into its memory every 8 miles, then at 60,000, 82,500 or 120,000 miles it will illuminate the EMR lamp. When the indicated mileage is reached or the EMR lamp is on at all times the following parts must be replaced and the EMR lamp reset.


At 60,00 miles, proceed as follows:
Replace EGR valve.
Clean EGR passage.
Replace PCV valve.
At 82,500 miles, proceed as follows:
Replace oxygen sensor.
At 120,000 miles, proceed as follows:
Replace EGR valve.
Clean EGR passage.
Replace PCV valve.

RESET PROCEDURE
After necessary emission maintenance has been performed, connect Diagnosis Read-Out Box II (DRB II) to the on-board diagnosis connector, Figs. 8 through 12. Follow instructions indicated by DRB II tool.

 

[cooper30]

Hey Chump, that's what I read in the 90 fsm. I pulled the bulb on mine cause I figured there was no way to shut it off.

Duane, I'm gonna check behind the glove box, though. Thanks for the tip.

 

[TaZMaNiaK]

The module was only on pre 88's because there was no computer. It was just a little counter connected to the odometer that turned on the light after 60,000 clicks. Computer trucks read the vss I believe to figure out distance since there's no switch in the odometer anymore. But there is no module.

Matt {peace}

 

[CLRracer]

i dont care if the light is burnt out or not, cus i replaced the stuff and plan on having a new motor long before its supposed to come on again. can u say big block

Duane

 

[Aaron 4.6]

Thanks for all the help guys. Sounds like I will see if AutoZone can do it or if my local dealer will help me for free (should be about a 30 sec job, it sounds like.)

I'm pumped about the truck and have really enjoyed driving it. Look forward to lurking around here a little as well!

 

[Chump]

Just for grins...has anyone tried pulling off a battery cable for a few minutes?

 

[Cooter]

Just for grins...has anyone tried pulling off a battery cable for a few minutes?

Yup...was on in Massachusetts, disconnected the cable for the trip back to Michigan, started it the next day...still on (this is on a 91 318 Ram)

 

[Guest]

Autozone doesn't have a tool that will turn off that light. Try unhooking the battery for a couple of minutes, I don't think it will work but its worth a try. If it doesn't work, pull the bulb.

Chris

 

[cooper30]

Just for grins...has anyone tried pulling off a battery cable for a few minutes?

Yea, on my 90 it still comes on. It's the damn light from hell. What annoys me most is that I have replaced all three items...pcv valve, O2 sensor, and even EGR valve. (Not that I expected it to make the light go away, I am just looking for the best mileage and performance out of my truck)

can u say big block

Yes I can (but it's going to be at least a year while I rebuild it)

 

[Aaron 4.6]

Well, I took the good advice and yanked the bulb. Never have to worry about it again!

 

[Guest]

RESET PROCEDURE
After necessary emission maintenance has been performed, connect Diagnosis Read-Out Box II (DRB II) to the on-board diagnosis connector, Figs. 8 through 12. Follow instructions indicated by DRB II tool.

According to this you just need the scan tool to reset it, you don't "Need" to replace all the parts & they have no effect on the light, it's just a reminder to replace them. Around here Autozone does do a free check w/ the DRBII scanner & they can reset it if they know what they are doing.

 

[SpaceWolf]

Quick clarification....There is a module behind the glove compartment door on the 90's. All other years I have no idea. Also, on the earlier models, you could reset it with a pin, but later models, for sure on the 90's, you have to have it reset.

Before an argument starts, I have seen the module in mine, and it is where I said it is. It is black, and about the size of the ignition module. Close to it, anyway.

 

[TaZMaNiaK]

That's the Antilock Brake computer. This emissions module would be a white box, about 2" square, with 4 wires coming out of it. Nothing after 1988 had the module because it was built into the computer, which is why you need a scan tool to reset it.