I have a 2002 Dakota 4x4 Quad Cab. 4.7L V8 with 127,000 miles. In the last couple of months the engine started idling rough or irregular. It would jump up 500 rmps or so and then back down. Once under power it would stop till I was stopped again. Although when on cruise I could see on the tack it would still jump back and forth. Recently it started acting like it was hesitating at low speeds.

My thought is that this is a spark plug issue? Is this correct? I've been reading on this site that its pretty easy to replace the plugs. I'm one of those guys that knows just enough to get in trouble. I grew up in a body shop, so if you can't swing a hammer at it I'm going to need some help from the mechanics here. Is there anything special I need to know before starting this job? P.S. I've never changed plugs before, so I'm real new to this kind of job.

Thanks for your help,
Ryan

 

look at the other thread on the main 2nd gen page about changing the plugs.

but it could be the IAC or TPS causing your problems.