You can test the crank sensor with a meter, It's a lot easier to look at a scanner but it can be done.

 

Just to add, they definitely did come with either an NV3500 or an NV4500 however the getrags will work in place of. However many say they have issues with the getrag, I don’t personally have experience so I can’t say. Just to keep to the subject though, it def seems like your issue is the crank position sensor. I had a very similar issue after rebuilding a 46RE and then installing it. Hit the sensor and couldn’t get it to stay running but it would turn over. Live and learn, I always remove them before taking the trans fully out and install carefully as I’m putting trans back in.

 

You could also substitute a Tremec TR-4050 for the NV4500.
These are the factory fit in 25/3500 Rams sold in Mexico, so it’s a direct bolt up behind a 5.9L (gas).
If you want to use it behind a 5.2L you need a bell housing and clutch from a 2500.

 

so i replaced the crank sensor and i have the truck running and driving but its running like **** and have no clue why its firing on all 8 and is fine everywhere except 2000-3000 rpm in that range its sputtering and seeming low on power what could be causing this

 

What brand crank sensor? And was it specifically for a manual trans truck?

 

not sure the brand but yes it was specifically for the manual

 

Swap it for another one, different brand, see if it runs better. (warranty swap, if you can....)