Hey everyone. This is my first time on this site as a member and would like some help with my 02 Dakota Sxt, 3.9L V6. No modifications, pretty much standard. Anyway, a few months ago I started having issues with stalling while idling at operating temp. I think I finally narrowed that down to the crankshaft sensor after replacing the cap and rotor, coil, IAC, and TPS. Throughout this process it was throwing two codes for a small and large fuel leak/vacuum leak. I found a torn tube at the evap canister and replaced it. I also just replaced the fuel cap since the codes came back. Fuel mileage isn't as good as I think it should be either. Now my problem is that when I re-install my battery and try to start it will fire up but immediately die. No sputter, or attempt to keep an idle, just a nice, quiet stall. It will start up again and after keeping the rpms up by pressing on the gas for a few minutes it will start idling on its own, and start up fine again. I know this isn't normal and don't know where to start. I haven't checked the fuel filter or pump since they very conveniently put it in the tank. Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks!!

 

i dont know about the codes but if your idling is weak to the point that it sounds like its about to shut off on you or if it turns off when you turn the key its going to be the crankshaft sensor. i had the same problem a while back a new crankshaft sensor fixed it.

 

I would have it EVAP smoke tested. Most shops do it for around $40... Sounds to me like it may be running extremely lean.

 

Hows your battery and terminals? I had a loose ground on my batt and sometimes it would cause it to not start after messing with my neg cable it would start but not idle for about 5 min so I had to replace my neg connector and I have since not had a problem with my idle. These trucks are picky about having really good grounds and correct voltage.