Model Variant:
Full-size SUV (first generation)
Production Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Target Audience:
Families and buyers needing 7-8 passenger SUV capability with truck-based towing capacity
Segment:
Mid-to-full size body-on-frame sport utility vehicle
Key Advantage:
Larger cabin and higher towing ratings than the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform it was based on
Main Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, GMC Jimmy/Envoy, Toyota 4Runner
Seating:
Standard 5-passenger with optional third-row seat for 7-8 passengers
Towing:
Tow package rated up to approximately 7,000-8,000 lbs depending on driveline configuration
Drivetrain:
Available part-time four-wheel drive with 2-speed transfer case
Systems Covered:
Engine, transmission, driveline, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical, HVAC, body, and wiring diagrams
Manual Type:
Factory service repair manual (workshop level)
Delivery Method:
Instant digital download
Engine:
Complete teardown, inspection, and rebuild procedures for all factory engines
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, sensors, ignition, and emission control diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission and transfer case service, overhaul, and adjustment
Driveline:
Front and rear axle, driveshaft, and hub bearing service
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc and drum brake service, ABS diagnostics
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, and alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering gear/pump service and steering linkage
Electrical:
Starting, charging, lighting, gauges, and accessory circuits
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete schematic sets for each model year
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning component service
Body:
Panels, doors, liftgate, trim, seats, and glass replacement
Restraints:
Airbag system and seat belt component procedures and precautions
Diagnostics:
Fault code retrieval, symptom troubleshooting charts, and connector pinout tests
Maintenance:
Fluid capacities, filter replacement, and tune-up specifications
Adjustments:
Belt tension, valve clearances where applicable, and brake adjustment
Torque Specifications:
Fastener torque values throughout all procedure sections
Special Tools:
Factory special tool listings and substitutions
Technical Depth:
Workshop level: step-by-step disassembly, measurement limits, and rebuild data
Intended User:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY owners
Parts Data:
OEM part numbers and specifications referenced within procedures
Fluid Capacities:
Factory-specified fluid types and fill quantities
exploded Views:
Component exploded illustrations to aid part identification
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Base Engine (1998-1999):
5.2L (318 cu in) MAGNUM V8, OHV, 16 valves
Optional Engine:
5.9L (360 cu in) MAGNUM V8, OHV, 16 valves
Later Engine (2000-2003):
4.7L SOHC V8 (introduced 2000)
Performance Engine (1998-2003):
5.9L available in R/T trim (from 2000)
5.2L Output:
Approximately 230 hp / 300 lb-ft
5.9L Output:
Approximately 245 hp / 335 lb-ft
4.7L Output:
Approximately 235-235 hp / 295 lb-ft depending on year
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Regular unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 25 gallons
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RE / 44RE depending on engine and year)
Optional Transmission:
46RE 4-speed automatic with 5.9L engines
Transfer Case:
New Process 231 (part-time, shift-on-the-fly) on 4WD models
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive standard, 4WD optional
Axle Ratios:
Commonly 3.55:1 or 3.92:1 depending on tow package
Wheelbase:
Approximately 113.9 inches
Overall Length:
Approximately 193-194 inches
Width:
Approximately 71.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 72-73 inches
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,300-4,700 lbs depending on drivetrain and equipment
GVWR:
Approximately 6,000-6,500 lbs depending on configuration
NHTSA Crash Test Data:
N/A - not specified for this model in available factory literature
ABS:
4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Traction Control:
Limited-slip rear differential optional; no electronic stability control in this era
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, standard
Seat Belts:
3-point belts in outboard positions
Child Restraint:
LATCH/child seat tether provisions per era
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette; CD player and premium Infinity system available
Power Accessories:
Power windows, locks, and mirrors available on higher trims
Driver Assistance Systems:
N/A - no modern ADAS features in this generation
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims
Oil and Filter:
Approximately every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on driving conditions
Spark Plugs:
Per tune-up schedule; plugs typically 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type
Transmission Fluid:
Service per severe-use schedule, typically 30,000-60,000 miles
Coolant:
Inspect at regular services; drain/flush per maintenance schedule
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 typical for the 5.2L/5.9L MAGNUM engines
Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+3 / ATF+4 type automatic transmission fluid
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol antifreeze per factory specification
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, with friction modifier for limited-slip units
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and front hub bearings on high-mileage units
Watch Items:
Exhaust manifold leaks and intake gasket seepage on MAGNUM V8s
Transmission:
Regular fluid service strongly recommended for towing use
Manufacturer:
Dodge, a division of the Chrysler Corporation (DaimlerChrysler from 1998)
Introduction:
Launched in 1998 as a larger companion to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, built on the Dodge Dakota pickup platform
Model Evolution:
4.7L SOHC V8 and R/T trim added around 2000; minor styling and trim updates through 2003
Generation:
First generation (1998-2003), replaced by the second-generation Durango in 2004
Assembly Plant:
Newark Assembly Plant, Newark, Delaware, USA
