I've seen references to the ASD, the auto choke/shutdown relay, and the fuel pump relay in different sources. Are these all different names for the same part, or are they completely different parts with different functions? If they are different, where would I find each on my 1989 Dodge Dakota, 3.9 4WD?

 

Let me start by saying I'm not really sure on the early years but here is what I can tell you. The fuel pump relay will be separate from the ASD (Auto Shut Down). The fuel pump relay controls the power to the fuel pump. The ASD controls the power to the coil and fuel injectors. (It might control more or less on the early years.) But it will be be the same as an auto choke since it is not carbureted it will not have a choke.

I will move this to the 1st generation Dakota sub-forum. In there you will find the FAQ which has a diagram of the relay location.

 

Thanks for the assist! - GrumpyDave

 

I'm still confused as to whether they are the same thing, I own a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and have a recall for a Fuel Pump Relay. I am currently on vacation in NC and my car wouldn't start , figured the relay had finally crapped out ! Went searching for a relay and found one at an OReillys but looked at receipt and it said SHUTDOWN RELAY ! BUT, once changed, car started on first turn of the FOB ! So, did I repair the recall on my own, or was I just lucky ?

 

They are two separate relays, but, they are the same part number. A fair few of the relays under the hood are interchangeable.

 

It depends on the year; if you have a fuel pump relay, it's normally also driven off the ASD signal along with the ASD relay.

Dakotas split the two functions in 1991 or 1992; 1990 and older they're the same exact relay, 1992 and up they're the same part number but two relays. (Not sure about 1991; gut feel is that they're separate there also, but don't have the wiring diagrams to double check.)

RwP

 

From what I see in my FSM for 1991 it looks like it’s still one circuit.

 

It might well be; I don't have the 1991 FSM, so cannot check myself.

I do know some of the wiring improvements the Magnums got (adding the PDC for instance) are there for 1991, but don't know about all of them.

RwP