2002 Dodge Dakota help

TGOFF

MEMBER
2002 DODGE DAKOTA
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,800 MILES

When driving at about 30mph and then giving a little gas it thumps just wondering if changing tranny fluid and adding some lucas would help that. Also engine revs by its self driving and stopped I think maybe a vacuum leak of somekind can you help and how much tranny fluid do I need?

Thursday, April 16th, 2009 AT 6:16 AM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi:
First, just make sure the trans is full. The thumping sounds more like a universal joint. Make sure they are all tight and free of play.

Also, as far as the engine rev, has the check engine light ever come on?

Joe

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Thursday, April 16th, 2009 AT 8:28 PM

TGOFF

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks joe no the light is not on thats why im thinking vaccum leak. And how do I make sure uni joint is tight?

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Friday, April 17th, 2009 AT 8:35 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

It could be a vacuum leak or even a fuel pump pressure problem. As far as the u-joints, they are at each end of the driveshaft. Take all tension from the drive line by placing it in neutral with the park brake secure so the car can't move. Grab each u-joint to see if there is any play sideways, up / down.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

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Friday, April 17th, 2009 AT 1:30 PM