Upon startup, the engine will "race" between 600 and 1200 rpm. It does not "seem" to do this when in gear but does so in neutral. This occurs when cold and when warmed up. For example, go out for a drive, come home, put in park or neutral and engine will "surge" or "race" between 600 and 1200 rpm.

'00 SLT 5.9 SLT 67k miles

 

Try replacing the Throttle position sensor.

 

most probably TPS or Idle Air Control valve - well known Durango issue - search this forum for instructions on how to remove and clean (easy job). Worst case is the computer.

 

Thanks...and apologies to all for the double (sort of) post on this. I did this post and noted that the web site was not updated so I did it again (prolly just could not find it..oh well)

I did the search and can't find the location. Someone said it is next to the firewall near the throttle something or other...but...I don't know what that is.

So...to replace the TPS:

I'm standing in front of the D. It is back by the firewall.

Left? Right?
Top? Underneath?

Thanks!

 

The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is located on the throttle body itself (looks like carbuetor). The sensor is located on the drivers side of the throttle body. You might have to remove the airhat (air duct that mounts on top of the throttle body) if you cannot easily get to the sensor. You will need a allen key or hex allen key to remove the two screws holding the sensor in place. Unplug the wiring harness to the sensor and just slide the sensor completely out. Then install the new sensor, reconnect the wiring harness and tighten down the two screws. You may want to do this when your engine is cold or not hot so it is easier to get to.

 

Thanks Kensai, I'm about to change mine out and see if it helps me!

 

Sorry to bug Kensai, but is it vitally important to tighten the TPS screws to 7 N m ?? and what does that mean?? thanks!!

 

7Nm? I would guess that is a torque rating. I just basically snug tighten them. Remember, the sensor housing is primarily hard plastic, you can damage the casing is you really over tightening. Just hand tighten it. when you cannot turn it anymore easily, just give it another 1/2 turn to snug tight it.

 

foget the 7NM, just tighten them up so they don't fall out...and don't forget to clean the IAC- search this forum under "idle speed".
if its over revving at idle, then its most likely that

 

Okey, FYI anyone. It wasnt the TPS, which I actually very easily changed myself in the parking lot of Auto Zone... So now I have two![&:]there was an extra little o ring in there? Mine didnt have one and I didnt see it in the bag until after it was tight back on...

My husband got home and cleaned the corrosion on the battery cables and it works just fine now. He also thinks it just may have been the disconnection/reconnection (reboot) of the battery. so simple...

But it works now.

Thanks Guys! I just can't imagine how I could do it without ya'll!![]