2001 Dakota 3.9-Couple questions/problems

Throttle body cleaner the same as regular carb cleaner?

pretty close, but actually a little safer for the man-made components. Just make sure the engine is not running as you initially spray it in the throttle body. Use a good amount then look for the sensor inside the manifold area; this is where you want to direct the next part. Start the engine. *** Don't get over enthusiastic with this part*****Then only use very short bursts. You'll notice the engine stall and black smoke will come out the tailpipe. If you spray it full out you can damage the O2 sensors. The cheapest O2 sensor is $73, so short bursts are in order. Wait for the engine to smooth out between shots. After a dozen or so shots to the throttle body with the engine running, shut it down and look for the sensor I told you about earlier. It should look clean. If not you can clean it some more or take it to a shop...... Hope this helps, Joe

Just in case, can the sensor be rplaced or does the whole throttle body get replaced.

If it needs the whole thing,is it something anyone can do or is it an involved operation?

If you have the time and a torque wrench, you can do the job. You'll have to pull the intake manifold to get to the sensor, so a Saturday is in order. It's pretty straight forward, just get a Haynes manual and "have fun". Most likely just cleaning the throttle body really good will solve your problem though. Joe

Well I opened the throttle up all teh way but cant really see any sensor there,which side of the truck would i be looking towards to see it?

Which direction is the sensor i am looking for located when looking into the manifold?