Hi Dave,
First off, Welcome to the DML! (Another fellow '97 V6'er)
You can get the codes from the '97 with the "Key ON - Key OFF" method. It's
really easy:
Turn the key to the START position three times (without starting the truck)
and on the third time, keep it in the START position and watch the LED
Display on the odometer. You will, more than likely, get a code 12 and then
followed by any other codes tripped in the computer.
As for the plugs, get yourself a "Flex-Head" 3/8" ratchet (Wal-Mart or Sears
work just fine) for that back plug on the driver-side. (Otherwise, you will
bust a knuckle or two trying to get tem out.)
Bernd D. Ratsch
Pflugerville, TX
http://www.toycrusher.com
http://lonestar.texas.net/~bernd/Dakota.htm
bernd@texas.net
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Brickner" <brick@hci.net>
To: <dakota-truck@buffnet.net>
Sent: Monday, July 24, 2000 12:56 PM
Subject: DML: Newbie with "Check Engine" light Gen III V-6
> Hello,
>
> I'm new to this list and joined because I was told that this is where I
> could find out everything I ever wanted/needed to know about my Dakota.
> First of all I love that Truck. It has been a fantastic vehicle.... but
> perhaps I have neglected it a bit? I purchased it new in Dec of 1997.
>
> It now has 49,526 miles and mostly I have changed the oil and filter
> regularly @ ~ every 5,000 miles. I have not changed the PCV valve or the
> spark plugs yet..... I know I need to do that! I have put new brakes and
> changed the auto trans fluid and filter.
>
> I would really like some help in diagnosing the "Check Engine" light which
> is on constantly now. Yesterday it came on when I started it and it has
> stayed on. I checked under the hood and all the hoses seem to be on ok.
>
> I also hear that it can be a real problem changing spark plugs...
something
> about the boots are now firmly attached to the head and that plugs will
> probably break before coming out??
>
> Any and all help will be greatly appreciated.
>
> Sincerely
> Brick
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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