Segment:
Mid-size pickup truck, known for its car-like handling and V8 engine options.
Competitors 2008:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Unique Selling Points:
Optional V8 engine in a mid-size truck, available in RWD and 4WD, comfortable interior for its class.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair for all gasoline engines.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system diagnosis and repair.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including diagnosis and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle assemblies, drive shafts, U-joints, differentials, transfer case (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, traction control, parking brake system diagnosis and repair.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear diagnosis and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories.
Body Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, door mechanisms.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, tailgate, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II procedures, troubleshooting charts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually any component.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving problems.
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Searchability:
Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Illustrations:
High-quality diagrams, schematics, and photographs.
Binding:
If printed: Likely comb-bound or spiral-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
If printed: Durable paper stock suitable for shop use.
Engine 3.7L V6:
3.7L Magnum V6 (45RFE/545RFE transmission)
Engine 4.7L V8:
4.7L Magnum V8 (45RFE/545RFE transmission)
Horsepower 3.7L V6:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 3.7L V6:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 4.7L V8:
230-235 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (depending on application)
Torque 4.7L V8:
295-305 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (depending on application)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically orange or red. Refer to manual for specific Mopar part number like 68048553AA.
Oil Type 3.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395. (Approx. 5.7 quarts)
Oil Type 4.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395. (Approx. 7.0 quarts)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (NV3500) for 3.7L V6, 6-speed manual (Getrag 238) for some V8 models.
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for both 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 engines.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602). Refer to manual for specific Mopar part number like 68018357CA.
Transfer Case Fluid:
NV244 or NV242 transfer case fluid. Refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity.
Wheelbase Std Cab:
120.0 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
131.3 inches
Bed Length Short:
6.0 feet
Bed Length Long:
7.0 feet
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 7,000 lbs (when properly equipped, with 4.7L V8 and 3.92 axle ratio)
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 1,700 lbs (when properly equipped)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star rating for driver and front passenger (for certain configurations)
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test:
Not rated or Marginal (typical for trucks of this era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags were optional on some trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe service may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months.
Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:
Typically every 100,000 miles (use specified plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:
Typically every 100,000 miles (use specified plugs).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3, meeting Chrysler MS-5927.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent power steering fluid. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake components, and exhaust systems can be prone to wear due to truck usage.
Engine Issues:
Minor oil leaks from valve covers or oil pans, potential for minor piston slap on cold starts in some 4.7L V8s. Radiator and coolant leaks can occur with age.
Transmission Issues:
Some instances of torque converter shudder or internal seal wear in the 45RFE/545RFE transmission. Manual transmissions generally robust.
Electrical Issues:
Occasional issues with power window motors, power door locks, and HVAC blower motors. Body control module (BCM) glitches can occur.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon.
Dakota Generations:
First generation (1987-1996), Second generation (1997-2004), Third generation (2005-2011). This manual covers the third generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
