[ImperialCrown]

See fault code descriptions here:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/80s-codes.html

You don't have the old external logic module, so I think that code 44 is the battery (ambient) temperature sensor. I also don't think that it is your running problem.
The PCM adjusts charging voltage according to temperature.
It sounds like you have a large manifold vacuum leak or a large disconnected or mis-routed hose or a loose throtle body or failed gasket somewhere.
Take a spray bottle of water and squirt around the intake manifold and throttle body. Listen for a change in 'hiss' or engine speed.

 

[ImperialCrown]

The Jeep Wrangler 2.5L would have a similar vacuum diagram and there may be more about that on the web than Dakota.
Google: 1991 Wrangler 2.5L vacuum diagrams or Label part # 5277113.

 

[ImperialCrown]

Valiant, you are 100% correct. The '95 Dakota is the OHC engine like the K-car 2.2L, not the AMC OHV. I was thinking newer. I think that it was the only truck application for the 2.5L OHC.
The vacuum routing would be different than the Wrangler 4-cyl and probably closer to the 2.5L OHC passenger cars.

 

[ImperialCrown]

As it is racing, try to hold your finger over the hole inside the throttle body that is the air intake for the IAC. If you feel a strong vacuum and the engine speed slows to an idle, then the IAC is staying or being commanded to stay open too far. The IAC steps can be read with a scan tool like the DRB III (or equivalent) and the older OBD I engine cable.
The TPS can also make an engine race at idle if the PCM thinks that the throttle is open further than it actually is. The 3 wires on the TPS: one should measure 5 volts supply and one should measure close to ground (or about 0.3 v). The signal wire is the one that tells the PCM where your right foot is and should read around 0.65 v at idle and increase as the throttle is opened to about 4.5 v wide-open.
OEM parts are important as aftermarket sensors may not match calibrations correctly. If you still have the old parts, you may want to compare them to the new parts. Chrysler part #'s were a 7-digit number that may be printed on the part.
Does the engine slow if you pinch off the power brake booster or PCV hose?

 

[ImperialCrown]

I can see where that would cause an issue. I'm glad that it was something simple.

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