I just put in a PCM on a 98 Dodge Dakota how to start run for 3 seconds and cut off what could be my problem

Turn the ignition to the on position (lights on) then disconnect the battery (earth). Then reconnect and try again.

Two of the most common problems for a no spark condition on your truck are a bad coil, or a bad crank sensor. However, you will need a lab scope to accurately diagnose the crank sensor. The PCM could also be at fault, but is very unlikely.

you need them to isolate the short , find out exactly what circuit is "frying" and go from there.

The PCM is located on frame rail behind the air breather

When it does this you need to check if you have voltage ( spark ) going to the end of the spark plug wire, but it sound to me like your pick up coil is going bad, pick up coil sit under the distributor cap under the distributor rotor same size as distributor assembly ( black ) cheap$$, good luck, hope this was very helpful.

Check this 1998 Dodge Dakota 2WD 3.9 liter V-6 VIN "X"



Good luck.

try bleeding the cooling system

take the postive side off the battery for about 3-seconds and put back on if the light comes back on and you have a autozone near you they will check it for free so you know what else you have to do to repair you truck wish you the best of luck Michigan Man.

I had same problem with 99 Durango.
It was an easy and cheap fix -- I went to AutoBeef.com and learned common problem with 98 & 99 Durango -- sounds exactly like your problem. I was encouraged to replace the PCM "Brain" and was advised of an online Refurbished PCM dealer located in Florida. You can google as I forgot the name. I called them and they confirmed an easy fix w only 3 screws to change out the brain. The cost was < $300.00 and my son & bro changed it out. Runs great ever since -- I was so grateful for AutoBeef.com for delievering this information to me. My car would die on me without warning -- totally unreliable and dealer and mechanics had no clue. Your problem sounds like mine -- call the PCM reburbishing company and see what they think.

I have the same truck and have had the same problem, this is what fixed it,, clean the idle speed control valve and throttle body with the CRC throttle valve cleaner and disconnect the battery for 5 minutes, that should cure the problem