Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops, Dodge Dakota owners seeking comprehensive repair information.
Competitors 2000:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Nissan Frontier.
Product Value Proposition:
Provides the same in-depth technical information as used by official Dodge dealerships, enabling accurate and efficient repairs.
Manual Advantage:
Eliminates guesswork in repairs, reduces diagnostic time, and ensures adherence to factory specifications.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, inspection, repair, and assembly for all engine variants, including timing, valve train, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, air intake, exhaust systems, and engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and calibration.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and maintenance for manual transmissions, including clutch system, gearbox internals, and shifter linkages.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and service procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, and planetary gear sets.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, driveshafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, and wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum, if applicable), hydraulic components, ABS diagnostics and repair, parking brake system.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (independent front suspension, solid rear axle), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, and steering linkages.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear, tie rods, and alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, instruments, comfort controls, and accessory circuits.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, and structural component repair.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of A/C system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, and refrigerant handling.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs:
Troubleshooting guides linked to specific DTCs for all major systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and major repairs across all vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing electrical faults using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and wiring diagrams, including component testing.
Rebuild Instructions:
Complete instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-detail, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including oscilloscope use, pressure testing, and circuit analysis.
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and component rebuilding.
Diagram Detail:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams and illustrations for all repair and diagnostic procedures.
Specification Accuracy:
Precise torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and alignment data.
Base Engine:
2.5L Magnum I4
Optional Engine 1:
3.9L Magnum V6
Optional Engine 2:
4.7L Magnum V8 (introduced later in the generation, potentially covered)
2.5L Horsepower:
Approx. 120-130 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
2.5L Torque:
Approx. 150-160 lb-ft @ 2800-3200 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
3.9L Horsepower:
Approx. 175-180 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
3.9L Torque:
Approx. 230-235 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
4.7L Horsepower:
Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
4.7L Torque:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (estimate, check specific year/trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition, depending on specific engine.
Manual Transmission Options:
5-speed manual (New Venture Gear NV1500, possibly others)
Automatic Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE for V8)
Drive Type:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with available transfer case.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ATF type required (e.g., ATF+4 for later models, consult manual for exact 2000 spec).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specifics.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage. Manual transmission fluid typically every 60,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum), intervals range from 30,000 to 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate and engine. Check manual for exact viscosity grades and API service classification (e.g., API SN/SP).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge approved Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically Mopar OAT or HOAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Actuator failures in HVAC blend doors and recirculate doors.
Common Problem 2:
Rattling or worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to weight and usage.
Common Problem 3:
Water pump leaks, especially with higher mileage V8 engines.
Common Problem 4:
Minor electrical gremlins, often related to grounds or sensor connections.