🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2000

Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Product Name:

2000 Dodge Dakota AN Original Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2000 Dodge Dakota was positioned as a mid-size pickup truck, competing in a segment with strong offerings from Ford (Ranger), Chevrolet (S-10), and Toyota (Tacoma). It was known for its range of powerful V8 engines, which was a significant differentiator in its class.

Competitive Analysis:

Compared to its rivals, the Dakota often offered more horsepower and towing capability, especially with the larger V8 options. Its styling was aggressive and truck-like, appealing to buyers who desired a more substantial presence. This manual provides the essential technical data to maintain and repair this capable vehicle.

Key Features:

Key features of the 2000 Dakota included available V8 engines (4.7L Magnum and 5.9L Magnum), a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, extended cab configurations, and a robust frame. The 'AN' chassis code signifies this generation of Dakota.

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians, DIY mechanics, and dedicated owners who want to perform maintenance and repairs themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Engines:

2.5L, 3.9L, 4.7L, 5.9L

Covered Transmissions:

Manual and Automatic (specific models to be detailed in manual)

Page Count Estimated:

Approx. 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Original Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (Original)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials

Brakes:

Front and rear brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (e.g., independent), rear suspension (e.g., leaf spring), steering system (e.g., power steering), wheels and tires

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, wipers and washers, power mirrors, power windows, power locks, horn, audio system, body control modules (BCM), fuse and relay information, wiring diagrams

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service

Body Chassis:

Body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, exterior trim, frame and collision repair basics

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, hangers, and emissions control components.

Fuel System Detailed:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system.

Cooling System Detailed:

Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan (mechanical or electric), heater core, pressure cap.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including engine overhaul, transmission service, brake replacement, suspension component repair, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, HVAC system service, body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, common problems and their solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting charts

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), data stream interpretation

Engine Mount Replacement:

Detailed procedures for replacing engine mounts to reduce vibration.

Brake Caliper Replacement:

Step-by-step guide for brake caliper service and replacement, including bleeding procedures.

Engine Timing Belt Chain:

Procedures for checking and replacing timing components if applicable (4.7L uses a chain, others may vary).

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and diagnostic procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners, including cylinder heads, main bearing caps, wheel lug nuts, and suspension components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed color wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing complex electrical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Description:

Original printed manual, typically bound for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment.

Searchable Text:

Original printed manuals are not digitally searchable, but excellent organization and indexing facilitate navigation.

Print Quality:

High-quality factory printing with clear diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Binding Type:

Professional binding (e.g., comb binding, perfect binding, or section sewn) designed for workshop durability.

Paper Type:

Durable, semi-gloss paper stock suitable for repeated handling and resistant to workshop fluids.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2 5L Description:

2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum L4 Engine. This was the base engine, offering reasonable fuel economy for its class. Known for its simplicity and reliability.

Engine 3 9L Description:

3.9L (238 cu in) Magnum V6 Engine. A popular mid-range option providing a good balance of power and efficiency. A workhorse for many Dakota owners.

Engine 4 7L Description:

4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8 Engine. Introduced in 1999, this was a significant upgrade, offering considerable power and torque. Features SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) technology.

Engine 5 9L Description:

5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 Engine. The flagship engine, providing substantial power for towing and hauling. Known for its brute strength and durability.

Engine 2 5L Horsepower Estimate:

~120 hp

Engine 3 9L Horsepower Estimate:

~175 hp

Engine 4 7L Horsepower Estimate:

~235 hp

Engine 5 9L Horsepower Estimate:

~245 hp

Engine 4 7L Torque Estimate:

~300 lb-ft

Engine 5 9L Torque Estimate:

~330 lb-ft

Fuel System Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Valve Train 4 7L:

Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) with 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 2 5L:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Standard 3 9L:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Optional Automatic)

Transmission Optional 4 7L:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RE)

Transmission Optional 5 9L:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (46RE)

Transmission Features:

The manual covers both manual and automatic transmissions, including their internal components, operation, and service procedures. Towing capacity and transmission cooler information will be detailed.

Transmission Code Auto 4 7L:

42RE

Transmission Code Auto 5 9L:

46RE

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

~111.7 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

~124.8 inches

Bed Lengths:

Standard (approx. 6 ft) and Long (approx. 8 ft) bed options

Overall Width:

~71.1 inches

Overall Height:

~66.5 inches

Curb Weight Estimate:

~3,500 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity Estimate:

Up to ~7,000 lbs (with proper V8 engine and towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

The manual does not typically contain NHTSA ratings, but historical data suggests good performance for its era. Specific testing results would be found in external databases.

Active Safety Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on all wheels, rear-wheel anti-lock on base models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags, three-point seat belts, high-strength steel frame construction, side-impact door beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional upgrades included CD players and upgraded speaker systems. Some higher trims may have had premium audio options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Key features include power steering and optional ABS. Cruise control was a common option.

Connectivity Features:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports were standard. Auxiliary input for external audio devices might have been an option.

Instrument Cluster Features:

Standard analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge. Warning lights for various systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Manual will specify exact intervals and oil types.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Manual will provide specific intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary significantly by engine (e.g., 30,000-100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs). Manual will detail specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Specification:

API service category SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3. Viscosity grade typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Manual will specify for each engine.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602). Manual will confirm.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic. Manual will specify.

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Olds Alignment Technology) 5 Year / 100,000 Mile Coolant or equivalent. Manual will specify correct type and mixture ratio.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Known Issues Common:

Radiator leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V8s), transmission solenoid issues (in automatics), minor electrical gremlins, potential for rear axle seal leaks.

Known Issues Diagnostic:

The manual's diagnostic sections are invaluable for pinpointing and resolving these common issues efficiently.

Tire Size Common:

P235/75R15, P255/70R16, P265/70R16 (depending on trim and options). Manual will specify for each configuration.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x5.5 inches (5x139.7mm)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks. The Dakota, introduced in 1987, was Dodge's first compact/mid-size pickup truck, designed to offer a blend of car-like comfort and truck utility.

Model Evolution Second Gen:

The 2000 Dakota is part of the second generation (1997-2004), which was significantly redesigned from its predecessor. It adopted a more muscular and aggressive styling, introduced a more sophisticated independent front suspension for improved ride and handling, and crucially, offered V8 engine options that set it apart from many competitors.

Production Years:

Second Generation: 1997-2004

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Trim Levels Common:

ST, SLT, Sport, Off-Road, and some special editions like the Neon Edition or R/T. Manual will likely cover all major trims and their specific components.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Editorial:

While specific awards for the 2000 model year might be scarce, the Dodge Dakota, particularly with its V8 engines, frequently received positive mentions in automotive reviews for its power and capability in the mid-size truck segment.

Ratings Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era vary, but the Dakota was generally seen as a capable truck with strong engine options, though sometimes criticized for ride comfort compared to competitors.

Certifications:

The manual is an 'Original Service Repair Manual,' indicating it's factory-produced, which is the highest form of technical certification for repair and maintenance information.