I'm pretty sure the coil that engages the AC compressor died. I hooked it up directly to 12V and nothing. I used a meter across the terminals and it's pretty much an open circuit.

1. Where do I buy a coil for this compressor?
2. How hard are they to replace?

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Is this the correct compressor coil?
1988-92 Dodge Ram truck/van a/c compressor coil | eBay

 

Napa sells the part but there's no price on their web site.
I've only done one (on the compressor GM used through the 70s). There's a puller tool to get it separated and the system had to be discharged because the hub seals the front of the compressor. You may be able to borrow the tool from whatever supply house you get the coil from. Then you get to recharge the system.

 

I called Napa and you have to buy the coil with the clutch and it costs $135 plus shipping. Does anybody know if this is the correct coil? The part number is Mopar 4462370.

1988-92 Dodge Ram truck/van a/c compressor coil | eBay

Also, I found some instructions for a 1998 Dodge Dakota? Would the instructions be very similar for our trucks?
http://autorepair.about.com/library/faqs/bl817h.htm

 

According to Advance auto, the 89 dakota six cylinder (from the instructions you found) has a different compressor than the diesel. An 89 W250 with a 318 has the same as the V-6.
I think the instructions are good enough to get you through the job, but I think the e-bay coil might be different.

 

Well, it's also possible that the same coil is used.

 

Agreed.
If you know the Napa number for the cummins, call them back and ask about the same part for a gas truck, and see how it compares.
I'd want to KNOW they're the same before e-baying something. Even if the seller takes it back, the shipping costs are lost.