I have determined that it is NOT the ignition relay. Replaced it this morning, absolutely no change.

It's also worth mentioning that I can no longer check the engine codes.

If I turn the key forward/back five times.... the check engine light never comes on at all.

Now that I think about it, it never even comes on when I first put the key in the ignition and turn it forward.

 

you're supposed to turn it on 3 times not five. on off on off on. is the bulb burnt out?

 

Well, I would have to say that yea, the bulb is burned out. Getting to the bulb is fairly straight forward, but not the quickest task in the world.

2 questions:
1.) when your cranking over the engine (and it won't start) does the spark plugs, well, spark?
2.) When your cranking over the engine (and it won't start) is fuel available at the motor?

 

Hey, hows it going, my brother has a 1993 Dodge W150 that has the same problem as your Dakota, It wouldnt start when cold and hed have to let his relays click then it would. He thought maybe his fuel pump was going or he had a cold soder. He got sick of being late to work because it wouldnt start so he took it to a garage and they replaced the computer and it solved his problem so hopefully this might help get you in the right direction.

 

Computer is a very probable solution. However, you might want to check to see if there is an old after-market alarm system connected somewhere. Common locations are on the firewall in the engine compartment and under the dash.