Chrysler Repair: 1996 Dodge 3.9L: no start, after coming to a stop, no start, egr valve

Question
Van stopped at a light and will not start again. Checked fuel delivery checked relays cap rotor fuses what could it be????

Answer
Hi Tracy,
I believe that a '96 model year vehicle gives you some trouble codes that would be a clue by means of the ignition switch:'on-off-on-off-on and leave on' doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the check engine light to see it begin to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause, then repeat the process to assure an accurate set of flash counts. Group the counts in pairs in the order of appearance to form the 2-digit fault codes. Then write back or go to www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html for a code translation.
The only item that might cause this and which doesn't typically get detected and coded is the exhaust gas recirculation valve. If it is stuck slightly ajar it leans out the mixture too much to allow a start and idle. Look for it near (and underneateh) the throttle body. It has a round vacuum-operated top, the body of the valve is mounted in a small pipe that brings exhaust gas (usually from the right exhaust manifold but look on both sides for such a pipe) and between those two parts is a flange inside of which you will see a rod with a circumferential slot, which is the valve stem. It should move back and forth freely, against spring-action in one direction which closes the valve. When crud builds up in the action it will not close all the way at idle which it has to do. So spray some WD-40 on the stem where it enters the valve body and use the tip of a screwdriver in the slot to move it back and forth and thus free up the action. Then try and start it.
Roland