Okay, I know that's not very descriptive, so let me elaborate. Sometimes after turning the key, the ol' 360 roars to life and I love that sound. At other times turn the key and while it never hesitates to start, it barely whimpers, starts up real weak & soft, almost like it's bored. I have not found a co-relation between a hot or cold start. It's pretty random. Does anyone know what might be causing this?

 

pay closer attention and see if there are any consistent conditions that exist when it seems to start rather weakly, this will help us to narrow down what it might be.

 

Yeah - I figured, and I've tried to do so, but it seems pretty random. Late at night after sitting for 4, 5, 6 hours (I work at night). Early in the morning after work, running in to a store & back out - you name it. But I'ma try some more. Was hoping someone would have said - "oh yeah, I get that too" ... y'know ...

Misery loves company - and there's often safety (and solutions) in numbers.
Thanks for the advice.

 

if it was cranking weakly i would suggest checking for a sticking starter solenoid, but you indicated that it cranks fine, try leavign the key in the on position till you hear the fuel pump kick off then crank it and see if the problem still happens,

 

I have had this problem it turned out to be the plug wires specifically the one going to the coil. I would do a good tune up plugs and wires. My problem was more apparent when it was cool and damp in the morning.

 

my 98 also had this problem randomly. i did the same as dolittle and replaces the plugs and wires and she starts perfect now

 

I've only had the D 3 years & have changed them twice ...? Could it be I have the wrong type wires? I can't remember what brand I used, but I got them at NAPA.

 

yes, that is possible, we recommend mopar or msd 8mm or better

 

Yes!


You should be replacing them at about 60,000 mile intervals. I would get them from the dealer, or you can get Mopar Performance ones at the dealer that are even better! Also MSD makes a red 8.5mm wire. Spark plugs should be replaced with Champion Copper plugs as about 15k intervals.


Most of the time the reason that this happens could be emissions letting in more air or more fuel. But this usually happens more when it's cold.