I have 97 dodge dakota sport 5.2 that has been headache trying to figure out the problem.The engine has starting problems, it will only start mostly when the engine is cold but has a slightly weak crank.But when the engine is hot it will try to start but has a very weak crank like the starter is under big load.then once it finally does start u have to give it gas for a minute or so and slowly let off the gas pedal so the rpm dont drop to fast and the engine dies.Once you get past the rpm thingy the truck runs fine for as long as u want to drive it.Then when you shut it off, you usually have to play the waiting game until it cools down. but every now and then it will start up when hot but very weak and draggy.I have changed starter and new battery and even had them tested first, but still same problem and no codes what so ever.I also done fuel pressure test with 48 psi...Any help would be greatly appreciated Thx

checks good::Battery,,,,Alt,,,,fuel pressure,,,,,starter....no codes,,,,reads 10 volt while cranking using multimeter on battery and 12.8 when not cranking

 

I will move this to the 2nd generation Dakota sub-forum.

 

Sounds like the TPS or IAC. There are threads on here describing your exact issue. Do a search

 

did you have the battery load tested? alternator bench tested? How many volts accross the battery when running.

my 98 acted this way when I would leave the headlights on and had to jump start it. these beasts will not run on a partially charged battery.

 

Is it very cold where you are? and if so, what weight of oil did you use? If you used an extremely heavy oil and it is very cold, it could be a big strain on the engine to get oil to the appropriate parts. Once the oil is warm it would flow normally.

 

Sounds like battery to me.. Under load the battery has to put out 11v minimum to start the vehicle. I went through 3 Die Hard Platinum batteries ($220 made by Johnson Controls) before I got a good one (Sears switch to Dika manufacture)...

Computer is relearning the variables for idle settings...