I'm seeing a pattern of misbehavior, that being the bucking and kicking occurring at sub-2,000RPM when in 4th gear. So, I think I'm dealing with a transmission issue.

Thoughts?

Also, I am curious: are there known issues or "check here first" guidelines with this particular vehicle (2000 Dodge Dakota...Quad Cab Sport 4WD...4.7L V8 SOHC 16V) when it comes to the (automatic) transmission?

As always, thanks for the feedback.

NR

 

Did you ever check the fuel pressure? It should be about 49 psi. Tape the gauge to the hood and go for a drive.

 

I have not. Have asked and cannot locate one. Recent performance of my DD has me continuing to believe it's a transmission issue. So, as soon as I can locate a reputable mechanic AND the $$$ for likely repairs, I'll be moving in that direction.

Thanks to everyone for your input. I'll try and remember to post back on what happened with the transmission.

 

Transmission shop looked at the truck a couple of weeks ago; found nothing. So, today it goes into the shop with a focus on the fuel system. I went ahead and bought a fuel pump (just over $200; yikes!) just to be sure the shop had it available to them if they thought it appropriate.

Also, the truck just ticked over 299,000 miles! So far, she's doing really well, I think.

Anyway, that's the latest. I'll report back once I get the truck back.

 

The visit to the repair shop was productive.

The mechanic discovered a cracked spark plug (thank God that out of the 8 possible spark plugs, the mechanic pulled the only one that had a crack). And even though I did have a replacement fuel pump at the ready, the mechanic was confident that the new plugs would solve the problem, which they did.



And now, after a replacment of all the spark plugs and new brake discs, pads and rotors, my 00DD is running beautifully, thank the good Lord! (And Chad, the mechanic, of course .)

Thanks again to all who offered advice.

P.S I'm now about only 700 miles from 300,000 miles on this thing. Who knew?!