I have a 1992 Dodge Dakota, 3.9L MP FI, 5spd trans. 2WD. It has 235000 plus miles. Engine has not been open for anything and it still runs great (when it starts). Lately it will start one day and run great. The next day it may not start. Not even a single pop. Just cranks and cranks and nothing. When it does start it is instant with no hesitation. temperature does not seem to have any effect. I have a scanner but it shows nothing. Says it is not connected. Any thoughts? Rich

 

1. get the Bishko factory service manual on ePay or scamazon. Then follow the diagnostic procedures for your issue.
Looks like you can get one for around $35 on CD. https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw...+dakota+manual

Myself I would check the tune up items and look for bad fuses/rekays, broken/worn wires, ground connections gone bad
EDIT
$13.26 for a worn paper manual
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1992-DODGE-...oAAOSwX4VcFFL8

 

I'll add that Bishko will sell directly on CD ... http://www.autobooksbishko.com .

RwP

 

I'd check these first:

Bad neutral safety switch.
Bad clutch starter safety switch.
Bad stoplight switch.

If those are good, check these:

Check for a spark at the plugs. They sell inexpensive shark testers that you plug into the wire then onto the spark plug. If there's spark, the bulb will light or you'll see a spark jump between points. If you have a harbor freight nearby, they sell them for under $7.
Check fuel pressure.
Check the distributor cap and rotor.
Check the ignition wires to the distributor cap and from the distributor cap to the plugs.
How old are the plugs and wires?