To find it, you'll need to:
1. Consult your owner's manual: This is the best resource. It will have a diagram of the fuse and relay boxes, clearly identifying each component.
2. Check the fuse box under the hood: Many Dodge Ram vans of that era had a fuse/relay box located under the hood, often near the battery. Look carefully at the labels and diagrams on the box's cover. The relay might be labeled "starter," "IGN," or have a symbol depicting a starter motor.
3. Check the fuse box inside the cab: Some models had a secondary fuse/relay box inside the vehicle's cabin, usually under the dashboard. Check this location as well.
4. Look near the starter motor itself: In some cases, the starter relay might be mounted directly on or very near the starter motor itself, on the firewall.
If you can't find it using these methods:
* Take photos of your engine bay and fuse boxes: Posting these online (perhaps on a forum dedicated to Dodge Ram vans) might help someone familiar with that specific year and model identify the relay.
* Search online for a wiring diagram: A wiring diagram specific to your 1988 Dodge Ram van engine will show the location of the starter relay. You can often find these diagrams on automotive repair websites or forums.
Remember to disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before working with electrical components to avoid short circuits and injury.
