Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, and Dakota owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level information at a fraction of the cost of traditional paper manuals, enabling significant savings on labor and repairs.
Digital Advantage:
Instant download, searchable text, ability to print specific pages, portability.
Information Accuracy:
Based on original factory service documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Emissions Control, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (Driveshaft, Differential), Clutch
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (including ABS), Wheels & Tires
Body And Electrical:
Body (Interior & Exterior), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Automatic Climate Control), Electrical Systems (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Accessories), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, tune-up procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head/valve train, engine block, intake/exhaust manifold, transmission rebuild, differential service, steering gear repair, brake caliper/rotor replacement, AC system repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagram interpretation, component testing
Depth Of Information:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, high-quality illustrations and diagrams, specifications, tightening torques, special tool requirements, valve timing procedures, tensioner adjustments/release/reset
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum (AMC I4), 3.9L Magnum (AMC V6), 4.7L Magnum (Mopar V8)
2.5L Horsepower:
120 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L Horsepower:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
4.7L Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm
4.7L Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECM Type:
Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Block Material:
Cast Iron (2.5L, 3.9L), Aluminum (4.7L)
Head Material:
Cast Iron (2.5L, 3.9L), Aluminum (4.7L)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (NV1500)
Optional Automatic Transmission V6:
4-speed automatic (42RE)
Optional Automatic Transmission V8:
5-speed automatic (W5A580 - Mercedes sourced)
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (RWD), 4WD
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-3/GL-4)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
111.7 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
124.7 inches
Bed Length Short:
6.3 feet
Bed Length Long:
8.0 feet
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,150 lbs (with proper configuration)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars (specific year/config may vary)
ABS:
Standard or Optional depending on trim and configuration
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, upgraded speaker systems available.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Power Features:
Optional power windows, power locks, power mirrors.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum/iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles, consult manual for specific recommendations based on transmission type and usage.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 recommended for most engines (check manual for specific engine/climate conditions)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Coolant (or equivalent HOAT)
Common Dakota Issues:
Ball joint wear, intake manifold gasket leaks (V8), brake component wear, occasional transmission issues (especially with higher mileage), camshaft/lifter noise (V8).
Diagnostic Tools:
OBD-II scanner, multimeter, various hand tools, specialized engine/transmission tools as detailed in the manual.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Dakota serving as a mid-size option in their lineup.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (AN) introduced significant styling and engineering changes, including improved aerodynamics and updated powertrains.
Manufacturing Plant:
Various plants, including Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan)
Production Period:
1997-2004 for the second generation