Engine intake heater relays and solenoids restore reliable cold-start performance in many diesel Dodge Ram trucks. The shortlist below compares five widely used replacement parts that fit Cummins-equipped Ram 2500/3500 and related models. Use the summary table to quickly compare fitment and key features before reading individual product breakdowns.
| Product | Brand | Main Fitment Notes | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorman 904-300 Intake Heater Relay | Dorman | Select Dodge / Ram Models | Direct Replacement, Durable Construction |
| Premium Relay Solenoid AIR Intake Heater Grid | Xspeedonline | 1994–2002 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Diesel | OEM Standard, 100% Tested |
| MOTOALL Relay Solenoid Air Intake Heater Grid | MOTOALL | 1994–2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel | OEM Cross-Reference (Chrysler/Cummins numbers) |
| SPJIUQI 12V Air Intake Heater Relay | SPJIUQI | 2008–2018 Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500 5.9L & 6.7L | Multiple Part Number Crosses, 12V 4-Terminal |
| uxcell Air Intake Heater Relay 5187880AC | uxcell | 2008–2014 Ram 2500–5500 5.9L/6.7L Diesel | OE Numbers, Fitment Range |
Content Navigation
- Dorman 904-300 Intake Heater Relay Compatible With Select Dodge / Ram Models
- Premium Relay Solenoid AIR Intake Heater Grid For Dodge RAM 2500 3500 Cummins Diesel 5.9
- MOTOALL Relay Solenoid Air Intake Heater Grid For Dodge RAM 2500 3500 Diesel 5.9
- SPJIUQI 12V Air Intake Heater Relay For Dorman Engine 904-300 5187880AC 56029173AB
- uxcell Air Intake Heater Relay No.5187880AC/56029173AB For Dodge Ram
- Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Intake Heater Relay/Solenoid
- 1. Confirm OEM Part Numbers And Cross References
- 2. Verify Physical Connector And Terminal Layout
- 3. Check Fitment For Model Year And Engine Type
- 4. Assess Build Quality And Testing Claims
- 5. Consider Brand Reputation And Warranty Coverage
- 6. Pay Attention To Mounting Hardware And Included Parts
- 7. Evaluate Installation Complexity
- 8. Compare Longevity Factors And Environmental Ratings
- 9. Balance Cost, Availability, And Compatibility
- 10. Troubleshooting And Diagnostic Checks
Dorman 904-300 Intake Heater Relay Compatible With Select Dodge / Ram Models
The Dorman 904-300 is presented as a direct replacement for the factory intake heater relay in specified Dodge/Ram vehicles. Its listed features emphasize matching the original relay’s fit and function, which simplifies installation when the OE unit has failed.
Key feature notes include durable construction using quality components, and positioning as an ideal replacement for relays that have degraded from fatigue. The product’s stated objective is reliable performance and extended service life under typical operating conditions.
Practical fitment considerations: verify vehicle-specific part numbers and connector types before ordering since Dorman offers multiple relay variants for different model years and engine configurations.
Premium Relay Solenoid AIR Intake Heater Grid For Dodge RAM 2500 3500 Cummins Diesel 5.9
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This Premium Relay Solenoid from Xspeedonline is promoted as meeting or exceeding OEM standards and being 100% tested through manufacturing. The seller lists multiple cross-reference numbers to identify compatibility with earlier Dodge Ram 2500/3500 diesel models.
Features state replacement for part numbers including 68188401AA and 904-308, and fitment for 1994–2002 Dodge Ram models with diesel engines. The specification targets owners restoring older trucks where original intake heater grids or relays have aged.
When matching this part, confirm the original part number or physical connector layout. The product is positioned for straightforward swap-in replacement on compatible model years.
MOTOALL Relay Solenoid Air Intake Heater Grid For Dodge RAM 2500 3500 Diesel 5.9
The MOTOALL relay lists cross-references to Chrysler and Cummins part numbers such as 68188401AA and Cummins 3924594, indicating compatibility with 1994–2002 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel engines. The feature set highlights direct part replacements for common OE numbers.
This product emphasizes fitment accuracy via OE cross references. The manufacturer describes the part as a match for the original relay’s functional and physical characteristics, useful for restorations and repairs on older diesel trucks.
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Before purchasing, confirm the vehicle’s model year and the original relay part number to ensure connector and mounting compatibility, especially on trucks that may have had prior aftermarket changes.
SPJIUQI 12V Air Intake Heater Relay For Dorman Engine 904-300 5187880AC 56029173AB
SPJIUQI lists an extensive set of part numbers supported, including RY-1779, 5187880AA/AB/AC, and 56029173AB. The listing specifically targets 2008–2018 Dodge Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500 trucks with 5.9L and 6.7L diesel engines.
Core features include a 12V 4-terminal solenoid design and compatibility notes for Dorman 904-300, indicating compatibility with later-model Cummins-equipped Rams. The breadth of cross references helps identify correct applications across model years.
Fitment guidance: this relay is intended for the later diesel engines where different relay families replaced earlier grid designs. Confirm the vehicle’s OE part number or physical relay appearance to match terminals and mounting points.
uxcell Air Intake Heater Relay No.5187880AC/56029173AB For Dodge Ram
The uxcell unit lists OE numbers 5187880AC and 56029173AB and provides a wide fitment range covering 2008–2014 Ram 2500–5500 trucks with 5.9L and 6.7L engines, and later 2011–2014 6.7L models.
Features highlight adoption of reliable components and quality checks to meet original standards, focusing on matching fit and function to the old relay and prolonging service life under demanding conditions. The product positions itself as a direct OE-style replacement.
Buyers should check mounting brackets and connector types when comparing this relay to other aftermarket options, since relay families evolved across model years and engine sizes.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Intake Heater Relay/Solenoid
Purchasing the correct intake heater relay/solenoid requires matching several technical and practical attributes. Below are the primary considerations to evaluate from fitment, electrical specifications, durability, and installation perspectives.
1. Confirm OEM Part Numbers And Cross References
Always start by checking the vehicle’s original equipment part number. Many aftermarket relays list multiple cross-reference numbers (for example, 904-300, 68188401AA, 5187880AC). Matching one or more OE references reduces the chance of purchasing an incompatible relay.
2. Verify Physical Connector And Terminal Layout
Relays may have different terminal counts and layouts (4-terminal vs other configurations). Confirm that the replacement has the same number of terminals and a matching pin arrangement to avoid wiring adaptors or splicing.
3. Check Fitment For Model Year And Engine Type
Some relays that fit 1994–2002 models are physically and electrically different from relays used on 2008–2018 trucks. Confirm both the model year range and engine size (5.9L vs 6.7L diesel) listed by the part.
4. Assess Build Quality And Testing Claims
Manufacturers may state “meets OEM standards” or “100% tested.” Use those claims as one factor when comparing parts. Look for listed testing processes, durable housing descriptions, and any information on temperature or vibration resistance that could affect long-term reliability.
5. Consider Brand Reputation And Warranty Coverage
Aftermarket relays come from a range of suppliers. Brand reputation, user feedback on fitment accuracy, and warranty or returns policies can help mitigate risks. If a supplier offers explicit warranty terms, that may be preferable for critical components.
6. Pay Attention To Mounting Hardware And Included Parts
Some listings include brackets or multiple relays. If your OE bracket or mounting hardware is damaged, a kit that includes a bracket can simplify installation. Verify whether the listing includes any mounting accessories.
7. Evaluate Installation Complexity
Most relays are plug-and-play when the part number and connector match. For relays that require wiring changes, ensure you have the wiring diagrams, tools, and connector adapters to complete the job. Consider professional installation if uncertain.
8. Compare Longevity Factors And Environmental Ratings
Environment exposure (engine heat, moisture, vibration) affects relay life. Seek parts that mention high-temperature components, corrosion-resistant terminals, or rugged housings designed for under-hood service.
9. Balance Cost, Availability, And Compatibility
Wide availability and fast shipping can be important for minimizing vehicle downtime. Balance these logistical factors with compatibility checks to avoid returns due to fitment errors.
10. Troubleshooting And Diagnostic Checks
If replacing a relay due to cold-start issues, verify other system components first (heater grid continuity, wiring harness condition, fuses, and related control modules). Replacing the relay alone may not fix problems caused by damaged heater elements or wiring shorts.
Using these considerations together will help align part selection to the vehicle’s specific needs and the owner’s expectations for installation ease and long-term reliability.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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