My dodge b1500 1997 van 3.9L 6cyl. The van cuts off-replaced many sensors but still no luck.?

Question

It happens when i come to stop at a light or after i stop (for gas) and crusing down the highway it starts to cut off and i have to restart on road.
i know it is some sensor because i replaced: fuel pump-It was going bad as it turned out (no fuel pressure - not up to spec), TPS, Ign Coil, Coil, Idle Air Cntrol, rotor/distbtr, plug wires and air filter. It runs much better as these did need changing but, it still stalls. Seems to be no way to predict conditions that occur to cause the engine shutdown. I noticed the lights did go out once when it was about to stall.

I dont have enough $ to replace all the sensors and / or the EMT computer (unless you know that is what is wrong).
The van usually starts back up but sometimes with difficulty. Must turn off the key and try again to get it started. Otherwise, if I start cranking it then it doesnt fire up.

Who knows this problem or has anyone who had the same problem fixed it?
Email me at [e-mail]
thanks Ray

Answer 1

With the lights going out (I'm figuring you mean the dash lights), it points to losing all power. A somewhat common problem for this is the ignition switch itself going bad and causing this problem. It will not set codes when it does this, either as it is the same as if you just turned it off.

Most any sensor or other engine control will usually set a code when it goes out of spec, expecially if it goes out enough to cause it to stall.

Best thing is to usually have it diagnosed at a dealership instead of an independent shop. Dealership technicians know the more common problems on the vehicle, they see those vehicles every day. An independent shop works on everything, and doesn't see the same type of vehicle every day so they don't know the more common things on the vehicles.

Answer 2

A lot of dodge vans had a bad wiring connection right at the firewall. the problem was usually a heavy gauge red wire. there will be a multiple wire (square) connector going through the firewall on the main harness right at this junction they failed . easy to tell just pop the connector apart by removing two screws and inspect terminal ends

Answer 3

Do like Mark B says and check the ignition switch. They were real bad about burning back then caused by high amp draw from the blower motor. There may be a recall on it. have the dealer run the VIN. You may get lucky!