1999 Dodge Dakota two time to start engine, and steering lo

As far as the steering, check the tie rods (both inner and outer). Keep in mind, with 180K there could be some play in the rack.

Now for the starting, I have to ask questions. First, If the engine is running and you shut it, does it start right back up? Also, have you ever had the fuel pressure tested? Has the check engine light come on? And finally, have you ever checked to make sure the catylatic converter is plugging. THat could cause both a power loss and hard start.

Let me know.

Joe

No check engine light at any time, also when I turn the key off , yes it starts right up with no problem. For the converter I haven't had it checked , is there a way I can do that my self or I need to take it in.

This truck has great heat , burns no oil. I drive it slow any way seeing its not a race truck I just want to get the turdiness out of it . If that makes any sense.

Make sure there is good pressure from the exhaust. Also, with the engine running, listen for sounds near the converter that may make indicate it is plugged up. Finally, drive the truck at night and let it get hot. When it starts loosing power, pull over and look at the converter. If it is cherry red hot, it's plugged.

Let me know what you find and thanks for using 2carpros.com.

Joe

The power loss and fuel usage is getting worse. The convertor is ok, and I have the new Mitchell on demand car repair cd's and have done the re-routing for the plug wires for the spark knock on accelerating. ( still has spark knock) I have also checked for vaccum from the pcv valve just in case the plentum gasket was going bad but that checks out ok as well .. No check engine lights at all, no codes either. And to answer there is no fuel coming from the tail pipe either, no oil loss,
Just trying to see if this is a simple hard to find repair or should I pay big money for a dealer with the right computer to check it out for me . Seems I have done every thing i can my self so far,But this truck takes off like a 4 cylinder and uses gas like a fleet of cars.
Any other help would be great

I didn't know you had spark knock. This changes things. First, a bad EGR valve can cause this. Remove it to make sure it isn't plugged with carbon as well as where it bolts to the intake. Also, make sure the valve is functioning.

Next, spark knock many times is caused by a bad knock sensor. The sensor's job is to advance the timing to the max point right to where the ping/knock starts then retards the timing to prevent the knock. You may want to check that too as well as check you ignition timing. It could be too far advanced causing the noise and power loss.

Check that out and let me know what you find.

Joe

After investigating this 5.2 v-8 doesn't have the EGR set up nor the spark knock sensor.
Is there any thing else you can think of to try nest,, thanks

Check the ignition timing to make sure it isn't too advanved. Let me know what you find.

I had the local dodge dealer reflash my pcm also no change in the spark knock, and finally see that i'm getting about 9 to 10 mpg, how is that and why is that, the dealer ship here states its normal( i dont see how), any further help, its already cost me 125 just to reflash and no fix, runs fine, good idle, just dont know, also can a faulty fuel pump cause this ,, also seems theres more power whens its really cold out side... thanks