🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1996

Product Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact to mid-size pickup truck.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody.

Unique Selling Points:

Known for its strong V6 engine options, car-like ride for a truck, and a good balance of capability and comfort in its class at the time of release.

Audience:

Owners and technicians performing maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on the 1996 Dodge Dakota.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete official factory service repair manual for the 1996 Dodge Dakota.

Pages:

Hundreds (exact number not specified, but implies comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All engine types and components, including diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and specifications.

Transmission:

Coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions, including shifting mechanisms, clutches, torque converters, and internal components.

Brakes:

Detailed information on hydraulic systems, ABS (if applicable), disc and drum brake components, and related procedures.

Electrical:

Comprehensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures, fuses, relays, lighting, and accessories.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and troubleshooting.

Steering:

Steering gear, power steering system, tie rods, linkages, and related adjustments.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, and related hardware.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, operation, and service.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, fuel lines, injectors, and evaporative emission controls.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions components.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and systematic approaches to identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling all major and minor vehicle components.

Specifications Tolerances:

Precise technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and other critical measurements for accurate repairs.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Diagnostic Charts:

Trouble code charts and diagnostic flowcharts to aid in pinpointing system faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, downloadable for immediate access. Allows for selective printing of pages.

Quality:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images. Optimized for professional printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format implies no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format implies no physical paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L Magnum (I4), 3.9L Magnum (V6), 5.2L Magnum (V8).

2.5L Magnum Horsepower:

Approx. 122 hp

2.5L Magnum Torque:

Approx. 145 lb-ft

3.9L Magnum V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 175 hp

3.9L Magnum V6 Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft

5.2L Magnum V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 200 hp

5.2L Magnum V8 Torque:

Approx. 285 lb-ft

Injection Type:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) across all Magnum engines.

2.5L Code:

V (typically)

3.9L Code:

F (typically)

5.2L Code:

Y (typically)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (various models depending on engine).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A500/42RE for V6/V8, A518/46RE for V8).

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 112 inches.

Wheelbase Club Cab:

Approx. 125 inches.

Bed Lengths:

Available in approximately 6-foot and 8-foot bed lengths.

Curb Weight Range:

Varies significantly by configuration, typically 3,500 - 4,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1996 are not readily available; safety standards were evolving. Manual will detail system designs.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an option, particularly on higher trims and V8 models. Manual covers its diagnostics and repair.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag not typically available in 1996 for this model.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo system. CD player often an optional upgrade. Manual covers head unit removal and wiring.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was available as an option on most trims. Manual details its operation and repair.

Phone Integration:

No factory integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Analog systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Manual will provide precise OEM recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Approximately every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Manual will specify based on vehicle usage.

Engine Oil:

Typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on temperature. Refer to manual for exact OEM specification (e.g., API SN/SP or equivalent).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Refer to manual for Mopar specific type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (later models) or ATF+3 (early 90s spec, manual will confirm for '96). Commonly Dexron III compatible if specified by manual.

Power Steering Fluid:

Power steering fluid specific to Chrysler/Dodge, often Mopar brand. Manual will list correct type.

Common Problems:

Common issues for this era include: exhaust manifold cracks (especially V8), ABS sensor failures, interior trim wear, power window regulator issues, and potential for radiator leaks.

Engine Wear:

Magnum engines are generally robust, but like any engine, can suffer from head gasket issues if overheated or poor maintenance.

Oil Filter Example:

Manual will list OEM (e.g., Mopar) and potentially aftermarket equivalent part numbers for common filters.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history in the truck market, known for its 'Ram' branding and robust offerings.

Second Generation:

The 1996 model year represents the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which debuted in 1997 (effectively, the 1996 model may be a late production run of the first generation or an early release of the second generation, this manual clarifies its specific model year coverage).

Manufacturing Plant:

Typically produced in Warren, Michigan, USA.

Sales Context:

The Dakota was a popular choice in the compact/mid-size truck segment, competing effectively with domestic and import rivals.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1996 model year are not prominently documented, the Dakota generally received positive reviews for its combination of size, power, and ride quality within the compact truck segment.