1992 Dodge Dakota slipage and backfire

Hi:
When you say it will no longer engage the trans, di you mean the engine reves but the truck doesn't move? Have you done an OBD with the truck to check for codes?

Try this, with the engine and the key off, cycle the key from off to on 3 times. The 3rd time, let the key in the on position. The check engine light should begin to flash. Count the flashes for codes. Each tme there is a new number, there will be a longer delay before it begins to flash again. All codes will be 2 digits, and the final one will be 55 indicating it's done.

Let me know what you find.

Joe