Howdy all,
I have a couple of strange questions/problems with my 3.9 Dakota 2001
model...
Starting-It seems to take 4-7 seconds of cranking to start,I have a ranger
that starts within 2-3 seconds of turning the key.Is this just the norm with
the 3.9 engine? I am just used to things turning over quicker.I changed the
plugs and wires yesterday,which were quite worn hoping it would fix the
problem but its still the same,I really dont know if its a problem or if I
am just impatient and used to other vehicles.
Another thing,in reverse,when backing up slowly,the engine seems to run
rough and even has stalled a few times.Doesnt happen in forward,only in
reverse,like the idle isnt high enough to keep the engine running.
Any ideas or comments?
Thanks
Rob
Gunner - 16 Apr 2006 13:44 GMT
Try cleaning the throttle body. If that doesn't work, there is a sensor
inside the intake manifold that may be dirty and need cleaned. If you pull
the air cleaner and associated plastic piping you can just barely see it
with a flashlight.
Spray throttle body cleaner in there really good and clean it with a lint
free cloth, or just have it replaced.....bout $200 at a shop.
Joe
> Howdy all,
> I have a couple of strange questions/problems with my 3.9 Dakota 2001
[quoted text clipped - 14 lines]
> Thanks
> Rob
RH - 16 Apr 2006 19:21 GMT
Throttle body cleaner the same as regular carb cleaner?
> Try cleaning the throttle body. If that doesn't work, there is a sensor
> inside the intake manifold that may be dirty and need cleaned. If you pull
[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> Thanks
>> Rob
Gunner - 16 Apr 2006 19:52 GMT
pretty close, but actually a little safer for the man-made components. Just
make sure the engine is not running as you initially spray it in the
throttle body. Use a good amount then look for the sensor inside the
manifold area; this is where you want to direct the next part. Start the
engine. *** Don't get over enthusiastic with this part*****Then only use
very short bursts. You'll notice the engine stall and black smoke will come
out the tailpipe. If you spray it full out you can damage the O2 sensors.
The cheapest O2 sensor is $73, so short bursts are in order. Wait for the
engine to smooth out between shots. After a dozen or so shots to the
throttle body with the engine running, shut it down and look for the sensor
I told you about earlier. It should look clean. If not you can clean it some
more or take it to a shop......
Hope this helps,
Joe
> Howdy all,
> I have a couple of strange questions/problems with my 3.9 Dakota 2001
[quoted text clipped - 14 lines]
> Thanks
> Rob
RH - 17 Apr 2006 04:40 GMT
Just in case, can the sensor be rplaced or does the whole throttle body get
replaced.
If it needs the whole thing,is it something anyone can do or is it an
involved operation?
> pretty close, but actually a little safer for the man-made components.
> Just make sure the engine is not running as you initially spray it in the
[quoted text clipped - 29 lines]
>> Thanks
>> Rob
RH - 18 Apr 2006 19:03 GMT
Well I opened the throttle up all teh way but cant really see any sensor
there,which side of the truck would i be looking towards to see it?
> pretty close, but actually a little safer for the man-made components.
> Just make sure the engine is not running as you initially spray it in the
[quoted text clipped - 29 lines]
>> Thanks
>> Rob
Gunner - 17 Apr 2006 12:39 GMT
If you have the time and a torque wrench, you can do the job. You'll have to
pull the intake manifold to get to the sensor, so a Saturday is in order.
It's pretty straight forward, just get a Haynes manual and "have fun". Most
likely just cleaning the throttle body really good will solve your problem
though.
Joe
> Howdy all,
> I have a couple of strange questions/problems with my 3.9 Dakota 2001
[quoted text clipped - 14 lines]
> Thanks
> Rob
RH - 19 Apr 2006 05:39 GMT
Which direction is the sensor i am looking for located when looking into the
manifold?
> If you have the time and a torque wrench, you can do the job. You'll have
> to pull the intake manifold to get to the sensor, so a Saturday is in
[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> Thanks
>> Rob