Sudden rough/erratic idle

2002 DODGE DAKOTA
201,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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SEASON G HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
(360 sport) Running fine. Turned off. Turned back on- engine now idles progressively more rough. When given gas w/ parking gear engaged, truck emits white smoke.
Oct 26, 2018 at 9:27 PM
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WILLIAM CRABTREE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 95 POSTS
Hello,

So the first thing I would do is check the engine oil. Take a picture of the oil on the dipstick and post it on here. If the oil has a creamy color/texture, you might have a blown head gasket. Additional tests would be necessary to know for sure.

I have posted a link below that may help give you more information.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/white-smoke-or-steam-coming-from-the-exhaust-pipe

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test


Keep us posted, and let me know if I can be any more help.

William
Oct 27, 2018 at 6:49 AM
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SEASON G HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you for your prompt attention on this matter, William. Tomorrow morning I will definitely take a picture of engine oil to post. I have had a vehicle with a blown head gasket before this is a nightmare! I hope the oil is not creamy. As I stated I will post a picture. Thank you.
Oct 27, 2018 at 9:19 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,051 POSTS
Please do, We are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken
Oct 30, 2018 at 6:51 AM
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