I have a 1999 Dakota Sport.

Whenever i get on the gas to go up a hill, or just to speed up, my engine starts making noises and i cant figure out why. It almost like the engine is choking or something. It doesnt slow the performance down or anything, im just afraid something is going to happen sooner or later.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

what kind of a sound is it? could be fuel knock, lifter tick, piston slap (if very, very worn), ye old (unfaithful) chrysler transmission (unlikely, but never know..), maybe a few other things...

 

Its hard to describe. It could be a fuel knock. The sound reminds me of a spray paint can when you shake it. I've been told by a couple of people, the noise is caused by bad fuel. But i dont believe that, because everywhere i put gas in it happens. Ive tried octane boosters, etc. and i still get the noise.

 

is the engine light coming on when this coccurs?

 

My guess would a knock in the valvetrain most likely a lifter. If it is the one in your sig and has 188k it is a very good possibility.

 

when was the last time it had a solid tune up? new plugs might be able to help out the situation some...

 

New plugs might help a LITTLE but I'm pretty sure that motor is on its way out.

 

The engine light does not come on when it happens. I had a tune up, plugs, etc done about a year and a half ago. It wouldn't be time for new ones would it?

Another question, kinda off this topic, but i am wanting to do some things to the motor. I really want to put new headers and a cold air intake system on it. Do anyone of you prefer a certain company? I hear K&N intake system works great.

And by doing things to the motor, with this many miles, will this cause it to wear itself out faster, or cause something to happen. Because i would really hate to put the money into a motor with such high miles and have it take a crap on me.

Thanks for all the help.