Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information for DIYers and professionals, saving on dealership service costs.
Manual Advantage:
More detailed than owner's manuals, covering actual repair procedures usually reserved for dealership technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (2WD/4WD), Differentials, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels and Tires
Body And Exterior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Glass, Mirrors, Exterior trim, Seats
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio system, HVAC controls, Powertrain control module (PCM), Body control module (BCM), Safety systems (SRS)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes, Filter replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Sub-assembly repair, Major system overhauls
Specifications:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Alignment data
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag NV1500 for 2.5L and some 3.7L)
Optional Transmission Auto:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic (for 3.7L V6)
Optional Transmission Auto V8:
45RFE 4-Speed Automatic (for 4.7L V8)
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type V6 V8:
SAE 5W-30 (check manual for exact viscosity and API service classification)
Transmission Fluid 42Re:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Coolant Type:
50/50 mix of Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant and distilled water
Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils, especially on V8 engines, leading to misfires.
Power Steering Pump:
Premature wear or leaks from the power steering pump.
Rear Main Seal:
Oil leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal.
Heater Core:
Leaks from the heater core, often resulting in a sweet smell or fogged windshield.
Transmission Shifting:
Harsh shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions.
Manufacturer:
Dodge (Division of Chrysler Corporation)
Generation Second:
Second generation (AN platform) introduced for 1998 model year. Significant refresh for 2001 model year, including new powertrains and styling.
Assembly Location:
Mack Avenue Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA