I wrecked my truck and bought another 98 which had an automatic transmission. Motor will turn over and if I spray a little starting fluid it will crank for a sec (until ether is gone). Its getting fuel but seems to only be getting limited spark. The only thing I can think of is that I used the crankshaft position sensor off the manual on the automatic. Both sensors were the same length and appeared to be the same except for the connector. So I changed the connector with the one that was on my old trucks (manual) wiring harness. Are these two sensors not the same? And what makes them different?

 

Since the motor starts and runs off of starting fluid it is telling that you are not getting fuel from the tank to the engine. Also, it is saying that the sensor it working.

Check your fuel pump fuse and relay as well as the wiring and connectors. Next check for correct power at the fuel pump connector, if you do have power and no fuel pressure the pump is dead and needs to be replaced.

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

 

I'd start by replacing the crank sensor with the proper part.

I don't know what the difference is but look at it like this, Dodge isn't going to make two parts if one will do, nobody does, it just isn't cost effective to stock and support multiple parts.

Other manufacturers also make one for the auto and one for the manual, so something has to be different.

It controls the fuel and ignition timing via the PCM. Seems like a good place to start.

 

Yea rockauto shows one for auto and another model for manual so there must be a reason.


Restore it back

 

Thanks guys! I already checked fuel all the way to the injectors. Dakdan I'm bout positive thats the problem. I talked to a few mechanics today and they said the same thing. Ill get it done this weekend.

 

Well you can have fuel at the injectors but not enough psi so I would check that too

 

Ok i'll check that if the sensor dont do the trick

 

Well got her fixed. Changed the sensor and fired right up and purred. Thanks for all the insight!