I hate to tell you where to waste more $ but I'm wondering if you have a timing issue. Maybe look into ignition control module (if there is 1?), crank sensor or cam sensor. Just ideas, I also do not know if there is both crank/cam sensors on this engine.

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current - 2001 2.5 5spd 3.73 XLT reg cab short box 165K
dead - 2001 2.3 5spd 3.73 XLT reg cab short box 70K