Check engine number 54

so some one has done a engine swap if there are left over plugs then the engine light will be on v-tec engines have solenoids that operate the camshaft the 1500 non v-tec does not .computer and wiring are different.

you can bring it to an autozone and they will check why the check engine like is on for free.

i think that would be your best bet.

You have three codes there
12 - Memory standby power recently lost (Recently disconnected the battery, always appears this code (not problem))
Power loss light: Off
Limp-in mode: None

54 - No fuel injector sync pickup signal during engine rotation
Power loss light: On
Limp-in mode: Logic module will guess at injector timing

Possible Causes
Bad connection or wiring - Check the wiring and connections between the hall effect sensor (located underneath the distributer cap) and the logic module. Check the continuity of the two 3 conductor cables coming out of the sensor--these are prone to fatiguing and breaking inside the insulation where they exit the sensor if the cables are not properly tied down. You may be able to resolder them. Clean and regrease any corroded connectors with dielectric grease and repair any shorts.

Hall effect sensor failure - Check the two, flat 3 conductor cables coming out of the sensor. These often fatigue where they exit from the sensor. Upon replacing the sensor, make sure the cables are clipped or tied to the distributor cap shroud (or elsewhere) so they do not swing around.

Diagnostic Method - Trigger Parameters
- Engine cranking or running (signal coming from ignition reference sensor)
- No signal from the fuel injector sync pickup sensor

Results If Component Fails: Fault code 54 is stored. The engine will stall and will not start.

55 - End of message (Test Finished)
Power loss light: Off
Limp-in mode: None

Hope this helps (remember to rate this answeerr).

Have a repair facility hook up a diagnostic scanner and have them diagnose it. May have a misfire, if you havent done a tune up yet, you can try this, lots of variables without a scan.

5w30. You could also use 10w30 which is a thicker oil. The filter you have may choices. Brand and quality. Like Fram, STP, Mobil, etc.. example Fram number PH16 which is for both the 6 and 8 cylinder engines. Same with oil, you can get regular, semi-synthetic, full synthetic. Your choice. Usually higher price, better quality.

Buy a Haynes manual (about $20) from an autostore; you're going to need it for this task

not enough numbers for a true OBD reading, recheck and get the other number. there should be 4

If your engine light is flashing, then one of your cylinders is misfiring. Continuing to drive will cause severe damage.

You'll need to bring it to a shop for them to diagnose which cylinder is misfiring.

Here's the procedure for checking the fuel pump. I would 1st change the fuel filter, 2nd would be to scan for engine codes (free service at most parts stores), then check pressure (on a cool day, below 70 degrees) Good luck, let me know what u find. Curt
FUEL DELIVERY 1996 Dodge Truck Dakota 2WD 2.5L SFI 4cyl The Fuel System Pressure 44-54 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)

Vent the fuel tank vapors by loosening the fuel cap and unplug the injector wiring harness from the main engine wiring harness. The next step is to attach an electrical jumper between a solid ground and the fuel injector terminal pin number 1. Next, connect an electrical jumper between the battery positive post and injector terminal pin number 2 for a period of time not to exceed 4 seconds. This serves to bleed down pressure from the fuel system. Install a fuel pressure gauge on the fuel rail service test port and energize the fuel pump. This will bring the system to a stabilized fuel pressure that can be visually verified on the gauge.

If the block says d15b, it is a 1.5 liter, just as powerful as the 1.6 if you bump the timing up a little bit, but these engines are notorious oil burners and the standard transmissions always eat up their input shaft bearing and growl.