1999 Dodge Dakota Car Hard To Start

1999 DODGE DAKOTA
45,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • MANUAL
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DREWBRESE
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  • 2 POSTS
My Dakota can take up to 3 attempts to start. Sometimes it will start up the first try. Also, when it takes multiple tries, it catches very weakly. What could be the problem?
Nov 5, 2008 at 11:55 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi:
Have the fuel pump pressure tested. It may be loosing its prime. Also, has the check engine light ever come on?

Joe
Nov 7, 2008 at 8:57 PM
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DREWBRESE
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No check engine light recently. Check to see if there were any codes and there were none. It's probably something mechanical. The truck starts better when its stone cold/has been sitting overnight.

How or where can I get the fuel pump checked?
Nov 13, 2008 at 2:18 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi:
You will need to use a pressure gauge made just for checking fuel pressure. Some of the larger parts stores will actually lend the tools out if you want to do it. Otherwise, you will need a mechanic. If you check it, make sure to do it when the vehicle is acting up for you.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Nov 13, 2008 at 9:14 PM