Guys. I am new the dodge forum and wanted to get your thoughts on this. I recently purchased a 2003 Dakota Quad Cab. Has 3.9 with automatic transmission. I know this has been discussed a lot and am aware of the transmission issues but there is still hope. lol.

My transmission shifts into 1st and 2nd fine. When I am ready to go into 3rd it sometimes hits higher RPMS and I have to let off the gas so it will shift. I have been seeing where some people have replaced TPS and had luck resolving this. Do you think this might be the situation?

I love this truck and want to correct any issues that may arise. I replaced the belt tensioner assembly already within 20 min and my rattle is gone so starting on the transmission now.

 

Yeah try replacing that, and while you're at it replace/clean the IAC. They're both on the throttle with easy access. Just take the wires off, unbolt, and replace.
Besides, they're relatively cheap, too. Roughly 50$ for both of 'em

 

Please excuse my ignorance but what is the IAC?

 

Sorry friend. It's the Idle Air Control. It's on the back of the throttlebody.
Here's a thread that shows how to do it. I'm not sure how accurate it is for a 2nd gen Dak, but at least it can give you an idea.

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-r...n-the-iac.html

 

Ok looked it up..TY. My truck does not seem to have any of the issues that the IAC presents only in the transmission but couldn't hurt I guess.

 

Yeah you can try the tps might work out for you. Tps last time I checked for a 01 was about 38.00.

 

Does the TPS always kick a code? Mine is not.

 

No, not that I'm aware of. It doesn't throw a code. But it does start to create irregular RPMs

 

Also something else. When I floor the truck it revs but has no power. I have heard this can also be caused by the TPS.

 

Yes it hits dead spots in the sensor. It rarely will ever throw a code.