Vehicle Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Demographic:
Light-duty truck users, contractors, small businesses, lifestyle buyers
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup
Vehicle Strengths:
Comfortable ride for its class, available V6 engine, durable construction, good towing capacity for its size
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive repair and maintenance data, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, overhaul), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, emission control systems
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (A500, A518, NP435), automatic transmission (A500, A518), transfer case, clutch system, driveline, axles
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic brake system (front disc, rear drum), parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, steering gear, suspension components (front independent, rear solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlamps, tail lamps, interior), ignition system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Body Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, bed construction (standard bed, long bed)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, coolant flush
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper/wheel cylinder service, steering component replacement, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom analysis, common problem identification and solutions
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding, component testing procedures
Rebuild Specifications:
Detailed specifications for engine and transmission rebuilds, including tolerances, torque values, and assembly instructions
Engine Displacement 1:
2.5 L (150 cu in) "Reliant" 4-cylinder
Engine Configuration 1:
Inline-4
Horsepower 1:
100 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimated)
Torque 1:
133 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (estimated)
Engine Displacement 2:
3.9 L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Engine Configuration 2:
V6
Horsepower 2:
125 hp @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
Torque 2:
185 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (estimated)
Fuel Delivery 4Cyl:
Carbureted (likely 2-barrel)
Fuel Delivery V6:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Features:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, PCV system
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Manual (NP435) for some base models, 3-speed Automatic (A500)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic (A500/A518) with overdrive
Overdrive Gear:
Included on A500/A518 automatic transmissions for improved fuel economy
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+2 or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 9-10 quarts (dry fill)
NHTSA Ratings 1989:
Limited data available for this era, typically not rated by modern standards. Focus on passive restraint systems.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels for some models, Power Brakes
Passive Safety Features:
Three-point seat belts (driver/passenger), lap belts (center/rear passengers), collapsible steering column, padded dashboard
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo radio, optional cassette player, optional CD player (rare), basic speaker system
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls (heater, vent, A/C)
Driver Assistance Features:
None typical for the era beyond ABS (optional)
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Specification 4Cyl:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for ambient temperature range)
Engine Oil Specification V6:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for ambient temperature range)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (green type), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, ball joint boots, exhaust components, fuel pump, radiator hoses, heater core
Engine Specific Concerns:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (V6), valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks. Carburetor issues on 4-cylinder models.
Transmission Specific Concerns:
Automatic transmission clutch wear, potential for torque converter issues. Manual transmission synchro wear.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks and vehicles, building on a reputation for strength and utility.
First Generation Start:
1987
1989 Model Year Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, potential refinement of powertrain options. The 3.9L V6 became more widely available.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
