2003 Dodge Dakota RPM Fluctuations

Tiny
JACKK121
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE DAKOTA
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 92,544 MILES
My RPM will fluctuale while driving. I lose no engine speed at all. If I hit a bump my RPM will ramp up and then retrun to it normal operating RPM. Yesterday while driving on the freeway at 70mph every fews seconds my RMP would ramp up. I have put my truck in the shop and they clened my injortors which they said was causing the problem. The RPM is still ramp up. Please help me by providing me an answer to what may be causing the RPM to ramp up/fluctulate.
Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 2:08 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Has the check engine light come on?

Joe
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Friday, February 19th, 2010 AT 9:37 AM
Tiny
JACKK121
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
No the check engine light has not came on.
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Friday, February 19th, 2010 AT 4:35 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Without a check engine light, I would start by checking vacuum hoses for leaks. Also, I want you to check fuel pump pressure. Here is a how to for checking:

https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_check_fuel_pressure.htm

The reason I'm asking for these thing is because there is no light. THe check engine would have indicated a problem with an electrical component or sensor.

You will need a fuel pressure tester. Most parts stores will lend or rent one to you.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Friday, February 19th, 2010 AT 9:54 PM
Tiny
JACKK121
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
As I stated in my last email, I performed a fuel pressure test on my truck and the pressure read 49.2 psi, according to the specifications this is the normal reading for my Dodge truck. I have also checked every vaccuum hole for leaks and none were found. Again, NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS CAME ON.

Thanks, Dennis
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Saturday, February 20th, 2010 AT 8:28 AM
Tiny
JSCHINBECKLER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I'm having the exact same problems w/ my 03 Dakota. Could it be the Purge Control Solenoid?
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Thursday, February 25th, 2010 AT 5:03 PM
Tiny
JACKK121
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
I don't know if it the Purge Control Solenoid at this point I am checking out all suggestion. All I do know is it's a pain trying to figure out what is causing this RPM problem. Still there is no check engine light yet.

Dennis
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Thursday, February 25th, 2010 AT 5:27 PM
Tiny
JSCHINBECKLER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Try this. Disconnect the VAC line that is connected to your TPS. If you follow the Purge Control Solenoid VAC line. Up to the TPS. It should be just a slip on connection. It's the only line that leads from the Purge Control Solenoid. Up to the top portion of your engine. I disconnected mine. And the RPM issue seems to have resolved. Leading me to believe its the solenoid. If you have the same results. That would be pretty compelling evidence to see if you can find one at the local junk yard. I've priced them new and they are "dealer only" items. Costing about $108. Let me know. Thanks!
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Thursday, February 25th, 2010 AT 8:25 PM
Tiny
CRAIGRATCH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I had the same problem with my 2001 dakota and it was the throttle position sensor!
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Sunday, February 28th, 2010 AT 6:23 PM

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