1993 Dodge Dakota starts sometime and not sometimes

Have you checked to confirm there is no spark? Also, have you checked fuel pump pressure when it won't start?

Based on your description, it does sound like a spark issue. However, a weak fuel pump can cause the same symptoms. But, the fact that it doesn't start with starter fluid leads me to believe it is a spark issue usually caused by a bad crank sensor.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

After thought. Have you checked the MAP sensor?

Here is what I need you to do. You are going to check codes and tell me what they are. All trouble codes on your truck will be two digits, for example 12, 15, 45.

Get in the truck and cycle the key from off to on 3 times. The third time, let it in the run position (do not start the engine). Wait a few seconds and the check engine light will begin to flash. Count the flashes. If will blink, have a slight pause, then start again. That will give you the two digit code. Between codes, if there is more than one, there is a longer pause. When you get to code 55, it is done. NOTE: If you only get a 55, that means there are no codes in the computer.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Are you sure it wasn't a 13? That would most likely deal with the map sensor and could cause what you are experiencing.

It is on the front of the throttle body. If I remember, it is held on by 2 screws (torx T-25). To check it, you need a scanner. If the MAP sensor output voltage does not change by more than 0.04V when reving the engine, it is bad.

Yes, I have heard of it. If I recall, it is a white wire with a red tracer that is the issue. However, the problem (caused by corrosion) usually shuts spark down and the engine won't start at all. I guess it wouldn't be a waste of time to check it.

Fault code 12 The logic module is basically telling you that it has lost power and will not remember any previously stored codes or engine sensor table data. The code will be removed after 15 ignition on/off cycles and the logic module will use default values for all look-up tables as a starting point until it "learns" the attributes of the engine.

I hope it helps. Let me know if things change.

Joe

If the wires are good and the crank sensor is good, on the driver's side inner fender (under the hood) located beside the windshield washer jug are two ground wires. They simply screw into the inner fender. Check their condition. Make sure they are in good shape, not damaged and are getting a good ground. Many times they lose their ground as a result of rust.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Is it still running good? As far as the age of the truck, I just sold mine (93) it had 225K on it and still ran perfect, but the cab mounts went bad. For a 4x4 they were no longer available and I couldn't find them anywhere. If they weren't bad, I would have driven it another 200K. I loved it. Stupid me, I got a newer one, a 98. It isn't near the truck as my old one. I think I'm going to look for another one (older body style).