1987 Dodge Dakota Can't pass emissions

DAKOTAGUY

MEMBER
1987 DODGE DAKOTA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
125,000 MILES

Ok. I'm in a bind here. I've got a 1987 dodge dakota work truck I just bought, but it keeps failing emissions inspection. I don't think it has a computer to pull codes from, so I'm just guessing at this point. The original exhaust pipe broke off at the muffler so I've got one clamped on. No check engine light. The emission test says I'm too high on HC and CO. I just put new spark plugs in it, but I still have to warm it up good in the mornings. Can anyone please tell me what I need to do to pass inspection. Muffler?Cat?Sensor?

thanks!

Monday, February 1st, 2010 AT 1:51 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Here is what I need you to do:

1) with the engine OFF, cycle the key from off to on 3 times. On the 3rd time, let it in the run position.

2) The check engine light should begin to flash.

3) Count flashes. In this year, trouble codes were 2 digit numbers. Thus, the light will flash, pause, then flash again to give you the 2 digit trouble code. Count the number of flashes each time. Between codes, there will be a longer pause. When it finishes, the final code will be 55.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Joe

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010 AT 6:41 AM