I have a 1999 Dodge Dakota V8. Check Engine light came on. Almost didn't make it home. Dies when at stop lights, etc. Is there a way to read the CE code without reader? Can't get it to shop, and can't afford to have shop come here. Have replaced IAC valve. Need help. Love this truck. It sat for almost 5 years because we couldn't afford to have the transmission gaskets replaced. Has been running now about 6 months without problems until now.
Thank you.
Ardis

 

I don't think the keydance works on pre-00. See if a buddy has a scanner, or if a parts store will loan you one. Does it die regardless of where you put the shifter? What about neutral?

If you give it throttle before going into gear, does it still die, or can you throttle through the load?

What if you jack the rear axle up onto jackstands, does it die going into gear with the load removed? (just lightly press the brake when coming out of park, or start the engine in neutral)

Sounds to me like the torque convertor lockup solenoid is stuck, or the convertor lockup is stuck in general.

 

Does it idle okay in neutral and park? When you replaced the IAC, did you clean the seat in the throttle body? Your MAP sensor may be fubar, too.

You can get a bluetooth thingy that plugs into the OBD2 port under the steering wheel (search the threads in the Gen2 section,) and with the "Torque" app., it will send CEL codes to your smart phone. Or try to make it to the local O'Reilly's or Autozone for a scan.

 

Sounds like low transmission fluid is causing it to stick in lockup and stall at idle in gear.