Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSDODGE AND RAM1999DAKOTA SLT, 2D PICKUP, 3.9 X, 4WD, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)ENGINE PERFORMANCESYSTEMENGINE CONTROLS - TESTS W/CODESNO-START TESTSTEST NS-3A: CHECKING ENGINE MECHANICAL SYSTEM
1999 Dodge and Ram Dakota SLT, 2D Pickup, 3.9 X, 4WD, Standard
Test NS-3A: Checking Engine Mechanical System
1999 Dodge and Ram Dakota SLT, 2D Pickup, 3.9 X, 4WD, StandardSECTION Test NS-3A: Checking Engine Mechanical System
- Turn ignition off. Inspect spark plug cables for correct placement. Reposition cables as necessary. See illustrations under FIRING ORDER & TIMING MARKS in appropriate ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS article. Perform TEST VER-1A. If spark plug cables are installed correctly, go to next step.
- Ensure ignition is off. Check valve timing. Correct valve timing as necessary. Perform TEST VER-1A. If valve timing is okay, go to next step.
- Ensure ignition is off. Start engine and allow it to idle. Check exhaust system for restrictions. Repair exhaust system as necessary. Perform TEST VER-1A. If exhaust system is okay, go to next step.
- Remove ASD relay. ASD relay is located in Power Distribution Center (PDC). PDC is located next to battery. Refer to label under PDC cover for relay location. Remove spark plugs. Check engine compression. For compression specifications, see COMPRESSION SPECIFICATIONS under ENGINE COMPRESSION in appropriate SERVICE & ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS article. Repair engine mechanical condition as necessary. Perform TEST VER-1A. If compression is okay, go to next step.
- At this time, PCM is assumed to be defective. Replace PCM. Perform TEST VER-1A.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.