I have a 99 dodge ram with a 5.9 and its just a winter driver, today I tried to start it and it fired right up but sounded weak and gasping for air. Wouldnt really idle then when I gave it gas it just dies and takes a while for it to start back up again. When vehicle is started sounds like its puffing for a big breath. Not sure what it could be. I hear the fuel pump. Is there a way to test it out or anyone have ideas?

 

There is a shrader valve on the drivers side fuel rail, to screw a fuel pressure gauge to. (which you can rent at the local parts store.) Check that first.

 

Checked fuel pressure and checks out good. Pump is working and had a friend with a power probe confirm

 

you say it sounds like its gasping for air. if someone is cranking the engine do you hear a vacuum leak somewhere while you're under the hood, or does the engine just sound like its bogging?

 

Clogged cat?

 

Clean the IAC and throttle body and try again. Just don't push the plunger at all.

 

You've confirmed fuel for the most part, make sure there's spark. Then see why it's not getting air. Probably faulty iac witch you can test by taking it off the back off throttle body, with connector on it turn the key to on but not run and verify the plunger moves, idk if it's all the way in or out. I think in. Or download the manual in the stickys. Also read the end all plenum thread.

 

spark is looking good and while I was at it changed all the plugs. I took out the iac and it was covered in sludge so I cleaned it off and still a no go. Is it suppose to squish becuase mine is stiff

 

If it's covered in sludge then more then likely the channel for it is also clogged/sludged. It's gunna be stiff, only time it'll move is if you leave it plugged into the connector and turn key on engine off, should move to verify it's not stuck.
I'd pull the throttle body and clean the channel at the back of the intake where the iac channel meets the intake manifold, along with throttle body and ports.

 

Don't turn the engine on with the IAC removed, and plugged in. It turns the pintle into a missile.