Questions and Answers

Dodge Dakota 4x4 No Start Q. Hi Vincent, My husband's truck won't start. It is an 1989 Dodge Dakota 4x4 with a 3.9 liter engine. The engine turns over but there is no spark coming from the coil. He has replaced the coil. As we are in the country our transportation is essential. Any help that you could give us with this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Chris

A. There are a number of reasons for a no spark condition. Here is how he can test the ignition system:

Failure To Start Test:

1. Check that there is sufficient battery voltage (12.4v) for the cranking and ignition systems.
2. Crank the engine for five seconds while monitoring voltage at the coil positive terminal.
   • If the voltage remains near zero during the entire period of cranking check the Auto Shut-down Relay (ASD).
   • If voltage is at "near battery" voltage and drops to zero after 1-2 seconds of cranking check the reference pickup circuit.
   • If voltage remains at "near battery" voltage during the entire 5 seconds go to next step.

3. Remove the 14-way connector from the Single Module Engine Controller (SMEC). Check the connector for any spread terminals.
4. Remove the leads to the positive terminal of the coil and connect a jumper wire between battery positive and coil positive terminals.
5. Momentarily ground terminal 12 of the 14-way connector with the special jumper. When the ground is removed a spark should be generated.
6. If a spark is generated check the SMEC.
7. If no spark is seen, use the jumper to ground the coil negative terminal directly.
   • If spark is produced, check wiring harness for an open condition and repair as necessary.
   • If no spark is produced, replace the ignition coil.

14-Way Single Module Engine Controller

Test Jumper