Hi all, I'm new to the forum. I just bought a 2000 Dakota slt ext cab with the 4.7 Magnum V8. It just started having an issue when starting. It doesn't matter if the motor is hot or cold but most of the time it turns over a bunch of times and won't start. After trying a couple of times it will start. I just replaced the TPS because it was easy and cheap, but no help. I don't mind bringing the truck to my machanic, but I really don't want to pay for random sensors to be replaced until he finds the right one or finds out it is the fuel pump check valve, etc. etc.. If anyone knows this issue or has some other suggestions for me to try, I would really appreciate the help.
Thanks.

Also since I posted this, a check engine light has come on and the truck bucks when I first take off.

 

what code is the truck throwing?
if u dont have a code reader, cycle the key to on/accessories then off three times, leaving in in the on position the third time, then the code should pop up on ur odometer

 

P 0463

 

P0463 Fuel Level Sending Unit Volts Too Hi
so i guess start here, wait for someone else to chime in at some point, 01silvercc prolly will at some point, or do a search for that code and see if anything pops up

 

Thanks.

 

Does it turn over slowly? Or does it turn over fast and just act like its not getting fuel or spark? Once started does the exhaust smell rich or is it white for a few moments? Have you pulled the plugs and checked them and the gap? Has the MAF sensor been cleaned?

 

It turns over fast like a fuel or spark problem. I haven't noticed anything unusual from the exhaust. Haven't check the plugs or MAF sensor. I don't know where the MAF sensor is. Thanks.

 

One thing you can try is before you start it try turning the key to the on position and wait for a couple sec and try to start it and if no luck turn the key to on wait then off and then back to on wait then try to start. My truck has a problem that after its sat all night if you dont wait when the key is in the on position it will take 5-10 sec to start but if you wait till the fuel pump shuts off it will start just fine.