Last fall, I posted several messages about a backfire problem when I
encountered long uphill climbs.

After replacing the oxygen sensor, EGR valve, plugs, ignition wiring and
anything else that seemed likely to contribute to the problem, I took it
into Procare.  Procare tested everything, and concluded that the
distributer gears and bushing needed to be replaced - which they would
be pleased to do for $1022 plus tax. They say the major cost
is to remove and reinstall the intake manifold in order to get to the gear.

The local Dodge dealer wanted about $300.  They said the gear can be
replaced without removing the manifold.

I declined Procare's offer and they re-installed the distributer and
what ever they had removed.  They in turn declined to replace the
muffler that had been throughly exploded in their testing.

Since I don't use the pickup during the winter, I decided to wait until
now to take it in to the dealer.

Now, however, the backfire and stalling problem is gone! I have driven
over 1200 miles up and down big hills and accelerated up these hills and
it just doesn't fail.  I am pleased but puzzled.

Did Procare correct a timing problem when the distributer was
re-installed? Or maybe with the rotor position sensor?  And it is likely
to stay fixed?   Any idea?

Thanks