1995 Dodge Dakota Cannot get started

Hi:
This could be caused by several things. Could it be a fuel filter, maybe. But unlikely. You need to determine if you are getting fuel to the engine and spark to the plugs. Once you do that, we can move on.

Let me know the outcome, or if you have any questions.

Joe

Hi:
Sure I can help you with that. If you have a gas lawn motor or anything with a spark plug, take the plug and do the following (make sure that the plug is good):

1) On the truck, select a spark plug that you have good access to.

2) Now, carefully twist the spark plug wire where it connects to the plug and pull it off the plug.

3) Place the extra spark plug (from other item) in the spark plug wire the same way it was on the original plug.

4) Now lay or place the spark plug against something steel on the engine for a ground. (Make sure you can see the bottom of the plug)

5) Have a helper crank the vehicle while you watch the bottom of the plug.

6) If you are getting spark, you will see it arc at the bottom of the plug itself.

7) If there is no spark, make sure the plug is still grounded against the engine, exhaust manifold, or anything that can provide a ground.

8) If there is still no spark, that is one problem.

FUEL PRESSURE

I hate to tell you this, but you will most likely need to have this done by someone. It requires specialized tools. Do you know anyone that would be able to supply the tools and a helping hand? If not, you can do sort of a generic inspection. When you first turn the key to the run position, are you able to hear a slight hum coming from the fuel tank? If not, remove the gas cap and place your ear near it and have someone turn the key from off to on and listen to see if you can hear the fuel pump run.

Keep in mind, it should only run for a second or two so you need to listen closely. This is no guarantee that the pump is working properly, but it will tell me if it's turning on for you.

Let me know what you find with the spark and the pump. Once you get this information back to me, we can move to the next necessary steps. I'm sure one of these things are not working because if they both work and the engine timing chain isn't broken, the truck should start.

Joe