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engine

Boost Pressure Sensor

for 1994–2007 Dodge Ram 2500 5.9L I6 Cummins Diesel · 4WD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
36 min
Tools
5
Steps
8
Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

Replace the boost pressure sensor on the 5.9L Cummins intake manifold to restore proper boost pressure readings and engine performance monitoring.

Warnings

Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work to prevent burns from hot intake manifold
ℹ️Verify correct sensor type for your model year - early (1994-1998) and late (1998.5-2007) sensors are not interchangeable
Do not drop sensor or debris into intake manifold opening during removal

Tools required

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Parts

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
  2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
  3. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent electrical issues
  4. Locate boost pressure sensor on driver's side of intake manifold near front (silver cylindrical sensor with electrical connector)

Procedure

  1. 1
    Disconnect electrical connector
    Release the connector locking tab (press or lift depending on connector style) while pulling straight back away from the sensor. Do not twist or pull on the wires themselves. If connector is stuck due to corrosion, carefully use a small flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the locking tab while pulling.
  2. 2
    Clean sensor area
    Use shop towels to clean around the sensor mounting area to prevent dirt and debris from falling into the intake manifold when the sensor is removed. Pay special attention to the area around the sensor threads.
  3. 3
    Remove boost pressure sensor
    Using the appropriate wrench or socket for your sensor style, carefully remove the boost pressure sensor (unscrew threaded sensors counterclockwise, or remove the retaining bolt/clip for push-in style sensors). Support the sensor body with your hand as you remove it to prevent it from falling. Handle the sensor carefully during removal; note any oil residue on the sensor tip, which may indicate turbocharger seal issues.
  4. 4
    Inspect manifold port
    Examine the threaded port in the intake manifold for damage, debris, or carbon buildup. Clean threads if necessary using a shop towel. Do not allow any debris to fall into the manifold opening. Inspect the old sensor for oil contamination which may indicate turbocharger seal issues.
  5. 5
    Install new boost pressure sensor
    Thread the new boost pressure sensor into the intake manifold by hand, turning clockwise until finger-tight. Ensure the sensor threads smoothly without cross-threading. The sensor should thread in easily for the first few turns.
    Torque spec
    Boost Sensor15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
  6. 6
    Torque boost pressure sensor
    Using a torque wrench with the correct socket/adapter for your sensor style, tighten the boost pressure sensor or its retaining fastener to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify value in Cummins/Mopar service data before final tightening). Do not overtighten as this can damage the sensor housing or strip the aluminum threads in the intake manifold.
    Torque spec
    Boost Sensor15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
  7. 7
    Reconnect electrical connector
    Clean the electrical connector terminals with electrical contact cleaner if corrosion is present. Push the electrical connector straight onto the sensor until you hear and feel a distinct click from the locking tab. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
  8. 8
    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. The PCM will need to relearn idle and boost parameters through normal driving.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure electrical connector is fully locked onto sensor with audible click
  2. Verify no tools or shop towels were left in engine compartment
  3. Double-check torque on sensor to prevent boost leaks

Verification

  • Start engine and verify no fault codes are present using a scan tool
  • Check for boost leaks around sensor threads (listen for hissing while engine idles)
  • Test drive vehicle and verify boost pressure readings are normal (typically 0-35 PSI depending on load)
  • Confirm check engine light does not illuminate after 2-3 drive cycles
  • Scan tool should show smooth boost pressure readings that increase with throttle application

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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More procedures for this vehicle

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