Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging, computer diagnostics (OBD-II)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (if applicable, though Dakota is RWD/4WD), rear-wheel drive, axles, driveshafts, differentials, transfer case (4WD models)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc brake repair, drum brake repair, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, ball joints
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body electrical, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, tailgate
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Chassis:
Frame, exhaust system, fuel tank, fuel lines
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems, troubleshooting guides, wiring diagram interpretation
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting charts, common problems and solutions
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Engine Mechanical Procedures:
Engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, crankshaft and camshaft service.
Electrical System Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for battery, charging, starting, lighting, ignition, and accessory circuits, utilizing wiring diagrams.
Brake System Repair:
Detailed steps for replacing brake pads, rotors, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines, and bleeding the brake system. ABS diagnostic procedures included.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, bushings, shocks, struts, and power steering components. Wheel alignment specifications provided.
HVAC System Service:
Refrigerant system diagnosis and repair, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor, heater core, and blend door actuator service.
Body And Interior Repair:
Procedures for removing and installing body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, headliner, dashboard, and trim pieces.
Diagnostics And Scans:
OBD-II diagnostic procedures, understanding diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and using scan tools. Specific PCM/ECM diagnostic information.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including critical tolerances and assembly sequences.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) depending on oil type and driving conditions. Manual will provide specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual provides exact interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, but generally between 30,000-100,000 miles. Manual specifies exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 recommended (verify viscosity based on ambient temperature). API Service SJ or higher. Manual provides precise specification.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler's proprietary fluid) for automatic transmissions. Manual confirms specific type and capacity.
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler's 5/100 formula coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Manual specifies type and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid. Manual will specify.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid. Manual confirms.
Common Problem 1:
Spark plug blowout in Magnum V8 engines (due to less robust thread design). Manual will cover proper installation and torque.
Common Problem 2:
Rear main seal leaks in V8 engines. Manual details replacement procedure.
Common Problem 3:
Transmission issues (e.g., hard shifting, solenoid failures) in automatic transmissions. Manual provides diagnostic and repair steps.
Common Problem 4:
Rust on rear quarter panels and cab corners. Manual may cover body repair procedures.