Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic, a weekend garage tinkerer, or simply an ordinary car owner , understanding the firing order of an engine is key to ensuring its performance and longevity.
The firing order dictates how power is generated smoothly and efficiently.
In this article, we’ll explore the importance and specifics of the firing order for the Dodge 3.6 Pentastar engine, a powerhouse in the Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep fleets since 2011.
3.6 Engine Firing Order Sequence
The Dodge 3.6 engine firing order is 1,2,3,4,5,6. This means that the spark plug in cylinder one fires first, followed by the spark plug in cylinder two, then three, and so on until the last cylinder, which is six.
Dodge 3.6 Pentastar Firing Order Diagram
In-depth Look at the Pentastar 3.6L Engine
The Pentastar 3.6 engine is one of the most popular engines that is used in a wide range of Dodge and Chrysler and Jeep vehicles. This engine first debuted in 2011 and is still the go-to engine for Dodge and Chrysler vehicles.
What makes this engine unique and special is the fact that it is an all-aluminum, 24-valve, dual overhead camshaft engine. which is designed for both reliability and power (305 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque).
The Pentastar 3.6 is a V-6 engine that can be found in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, depending on your model.
Why Is the Correct Firing Order Crucial for Your Dodge 3.6 Engine?
Now that I have explained what the correct firing order is, it’s time to dive into why it is so important for your Dodge 3.6 engine.
If you have ever heard of a “backfire” in an internal combustion engine, this is when one of the fuel-air mixtures ignites before the spark plug fires.
This can happen when there is a misfire and can cause serious damage to your vehicle.
An Incorrect firing order can cause engine backfires, misfires, rough idling, loss of power when accelerating, and extreme engine vibrations.
To Summarise, the firing order plays a crucial role in the engine’s performance.
It ensures that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently by ensuring that the right amount of fuel and air is delivered to the right cylinder at the right time.
A misfiring spark plug or a problem with the firing order can lead to poor engine performance and decreased fuel efficiency.
Firing Order Table
This table associates the position of each cylinder with its respective moment in the firing sequence
| Cylinder Number | Firing Order |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1 |
| 2 | 2 |
| 3 | 3 |
| 4 | 4 |
| 5 | 5 |
| 6 | 6 |
Practical Tips
To verify the firing order of your Pentastar 3.6 engine, begin by locating the ignition coils and spark plugs on the engine.
You can easily follow the wiring from the coils to the corresponding plugs, ensuring they match the 1-2-3-4-5-6 sequence.
Preventive Maintenance
Regular engine checks can prevent firing order mishaps. Always inspect spark plug wires for wear and tear, and replace ignition components according to the service intervals specified in your owner’s manual.
Troubleshooting If you experience rough idling or misfires, check the firing order as part of your diagnostic process.
An engine code reader can help indicate which cylinder is misfiring, guiding you to the potential issue.
Knowing the correct firing order for your Dodge 3.6 engine is essential for maintaining its performance and preventing damage. By following the guidelines provided, you can ensure that your engine remains a reliable source of power for your vehicle.
Additional Sources
I have had replace almost everything on this Dodge Ram 1500 3.6, I replaced PCV valve, oil and coolant housing, all six spark plugs and coils, I take it into AutoZone last week and put it on a machine they told me number 5 spark plug is misfiring I replace that last week and this week something happens again and now they gave me a print out and it say’s 5 is misfiring every week it is something different, I am so sick and tired of this truck already.
So tell me why is your firing order confusing? why is there an 8 on your firing order when there is 6 spark plugs.
Thanks a lot, this is really helpful.
Hey Arminda, Thanks for pointing this out. Just to clarify for everyone, the 8 on the diagram is supposed to be a 6 as stated in the other parts of the article. I must have missed my morning coffee lol.