At 08:02 AM 7/20/01 -0400, you wrote:
>I have a '98 Dakota CC 4X4 with a 318. So far I have performed the
>following mods: 180 t-stat, JBA headers, K&N FIPK, Mopar Performance wires,
>Autolite 3923's, JET II chip. Generally the truck runs fine, and I can't
>even try to make it ping on 87 octane fuel. However, a few months ago, I
>started noticing a slight hesitation or "bucking" between 45 and 50 mph in
>OD. The engine RPM's are about 1600 (I have the 3.55 LS and 31" Goodyears).
>The hesitation is more noticable with the A/C on and going up a hill. If the
>transmission downshifts out of OD or I give it a bit more than light
>throttle, the truck responds fine. --SNIP--
It sounds like it's a case of mild pinging (increasing load at low rpms in OD).
If I had this, I would first try a tank of 89 and try to repeat it under
similar
conditions before starting to replace things. If it disappears, then most
likely
the combustion chambers or valves have some carbon buildup and the higher
octane will be needed. Also, do a quick check for a leaky valley pan gasket.
Is most of you driving non-highway type? You may be able to clear some it
out by taking OD off and doing a WOT run a few times, listening carefully
for detonation and watching rear/side mirror to see what comes out of
your exhaust pipe.
HTH. Bob
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