Sort of dumb question,

Where is the prime bulb on my '96 model 12 Valve 215-bhp engine? How is it best reached? I think I knew at one time, but I can't seem to find it now.

Thanks!

 

In this image look directly above the END of the starter, it's on the lift pump

 

How is it best reached? Unless your arms are like pencils and 4 foot long it's easier to use either a broom handle or 1x2 board about 3 ft long. You can then snake it under the brake master cylinder and easily press the prime button. Just be careful to not tear up the rubber boot covering the primer. In a pinch, I've also used a long handled ice scraper.

 

It's been years since I've use the manual primer. Much easier to open the bleed screw on top of the filter housing then pressurize the tank, 10psi max, with an air blow gun wrapped in a rag. Takes about 15 seconds to fill and purge the air from a new filter.
Of course this assumes you have compressed air.

 

Is that just a prevention thing, or is it really a bad thing? my boot has been torn for a while..

 

First look around and plan your route then ya gotta lay on the motor as if yer makin love to it, ain't that hard I'm 260 lbs and not a pretzel. Or you can simply do as Infidel does

 

Same question here, mine came off last year...

 

Not sure if tearing it up is a bad thing. Keeps it clean. I just don't like busting stuff on the truck if I can help it. Maybe others can chime in.

 

There is an o-ring behind the button that keeps fuel from leaking. My only concern with a missing bulb would be gunk could build up and get past the o-ring when you're pumping possibly damaging it.

 

I'll give the dodge place a call, my guess is they won't be able to get it...

I may try your trick by pressurizing the tank though...

 

My cutt off broom handle/high idle kit also is the primer pusher. And also served as a park brake once, used in a similar fashion as the high idle.

MAN LIKE SIMPLE TOOL!

 

I use a ball peen hammer upside down. And a box to stand on cause I'm only 5'-6" and my belly gets in the way.

 

Thanks for the image and info. I'll set about priming the system better tonight, and see if that makes a differance for the duration start-problem I've been having. I think there must be a slow leek [of air] on a supply or return line, when the truck sits for 3+ days, it starts, runs about 20 sec's or so, and then dies out. Holding my fooot about 1/3 of the way on the pedal, it will re-start, but I think re-priming it first would make the initial start-up better. I need to replace the faulty hose - anyone have an idea as to which one?

 

You might as well replace both hoses while you're in there. 10 to 1 they're the same age and if one is going, the other won't be far behind.

 

Another great post by Infidel!!!