I have a 1991 Dodge Dakota, V8 318 4X4.

BROOKS2012

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1991 DODGE DAKOTA

Hi, I have a 1991 dodge Dakota, v8 318 4x4 automatic. The voltage regulator isn't working. I would like to replace the ECM but don't want to spend 150 at a part store. I'm looking at salvage yards. I'm wanting to know does it have to be out of a 1991 v8 or will another yr/model work?

5 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

-How do you know that the VR is not working? What testing equipment did you use to come into conclusion-Did you check the dark green wire on back of the alty to the computer for an open or short circuit-Battery could be sulfated-Is it a 5.2L?

Informational links: https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-battery
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

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Thursday, October 18th, 2012 AT 1:26 AM

CARADIODOC

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Hi rasmatz. I'm waiting anxiously for a reply. These voltage regulator circuits in the computers give extremely little trouble. The computers are all over the place in salvage yards but I'd be real surprised if it solves the problem, whatever it is.

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Thursday, October 18th, 2012 AT 7:54 AM

BROOKS2012

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I have Grounded the Green wire (pin 20) on the computer and after grounding the alternator kicked on. The head lights got brighter and the battery volts jump up to around 15v. I came across a similar problem on this site and after reading the response I tested the green wire. Right now the alternator doesn't charge the battery. The volts on the battery stays the same whether the truck is on or off. And it is a 5.2L.

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Friday, October 19th, 2012 AT 9:36 PM

BROOKS2012

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I could have misunderstood the topic I was reading but from what I understood was if grounding the green wire at pin 20 and the headlights got brighter and alt kicked in, then its the ecm that has the issue.

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Friday, October 19th, 2012 AT 9:40 PM

CARADIODOC

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You have it right, but first I'd check that terminal in the connector. Also measure the voltage on that green wire and let us know what it is with the engine running. The regulator circuit could be open but they give such little trouble that I'd want to check all the other possibilities first.