My 1988 dodge Dakota 3.9 3 speed automatic 2 w Dr.idles rough and sometimes dies at a stop light and won't restart unless I put the gassed peddle to the floor.when it does finally start I have to keep reving the engine and black smoke comes from the tail pipe.It will then idle and run OK for awhile.Sometimes when I come to a stop it won't idle down and It feels like I lose vacuum to my breaks because the peddle is real hard to push and doesn't want to stop.

My car dies when I let off the gas - CarGurus

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CarGurusDec 5, 2012 - My car dies when I let off the gas - I have a 2000 Dodge Durango SLT, I bought a month ago. I noticed it had a slow start but it still started and ran fin... ... Also, the oil pressure was high until it could idle by itself then it was back to normal. ... sometimes if you give it more gas it stays running but now it won't ...

dodge dakota idling and dying - CarGurus

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CarGurusApr 12, 2011 - dodge dakota idling and dying - My dakota will start then idle down and die. I can pump the gas and it will stay running but if i hold the peddle down or . ... thatdies on me at stop signs and when I take my foot off the gas pedal. .... and truck pops..misses and runs like crap and wont stay on unless i give it gas, ...

Truck starts but won't stay running...?? - Dodge Dakota Forum

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Aug 9, 2003 - 21 posts - ‎20 authors

Is the check engine light staying on, and have you checked fuel pressure with a gauge ?

change the fuel filter and check the fuel pressure

Hi Mosso, Yes it definitely could be. Reset it with a stroboscopic timing light. It could also be leaking vacuum hoses so check them all for tightness of fit and make sure there are not any which are damaged. Regards John

Do the service below.

Engine stalling and rough run issue at low speeds

This problem is commonly caused by a dirty automatic idle speed control valve and throttle valve. Buy a can of throttle valve cleaner (do not use carburetor spray cleaner!) from NAPA or Carquest (made by CRC chemicals) and spray it into the air intake while the engine is running, use up about 1/2 the can, engine will try to stall hold the speed up, shut it down and let it soak for 30 minutes, restart and blow out the remaining fluid, shut it down and disconnect the negative battery cable for 5 Min's to reset the base idle control. If this doesn't improve the problem you have mechanical problems in the engine like a low cylinder die to worn rings or leaking valve seats.

No read the fix below.

Engine stalling issue at low speeds

This problem is commonly caused by a dirty automatic idle speed control valve and throttle valve. Buy a can of throttle valve cleaner from NAPA or Carquest (made by CRC chemicals) and spray it into the air intake while the engine is running, use up about 1/2 the can, engine will try to stall hold the speed up, shut it down and let it soak for 30 minutes, restart and blow out the remaining fluid, shut it down and disconnect the negative battery cable for 5 Min's to reset the base idle control

I had 2 experiences like that. 72 ford pickup I was watching it try to run after I got home from work. It was dark and I could see sparks. I also noticed the coil was very hot. I changed to coil and all was well. I had a 94 sunbird it ran good at high speeds but I could not keep it running at a stop sign or stop light. I change the plug wires. I had not code. I suggest you check the code if you have a check engine/warning light. It can help narrow your search.
I don't even remember if the 72 had codes back then but I have learned to check them any time I have a check engine light.

idle control valve its about 50.00 to 75.00 I had same problem

This is an electrical problem, I had this last winter where the car was restarting or the starter was not disengaging. The problem was with the starter. the contacts that meet the plunger in the starter were grooved severely and binded with the contacts.
I had to replace the contacts inside the starter.

have you tried removing the idle speed motor and cleaning it with throttle body cleaner, as well as port it is removed from?