so here it goes...

my 98 3.9L dakota is sometimes having a problemstarting. instead of firing up immediatley it takes 5-10 seconds. most of the time the whirling sound, that happens right be before i start up the truck, goes smoothly. but lately it is having a different noise comming from the fuel pump. a noise as if it is struggling, not a smooth whirly noise.

i have 90K miles on my dakota. i think it is time to change the fuel filter. but upon review, the only way to change the fuel filter is to change the whole fuel pump/fuel regulator/fuel filter housing.

is that correct?

has anyone ever done this job before?

looking at spending $275 for a new fuel pump.

am i on the right path or totally off base.

any imput woudl be greatly appreciated.

vegas.