Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma, Toyota Hilux/Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier.
Unique Selling Points:
Unibody construction (unique for its class at launch), available V6 engines, comfortable ride, practical for personal and light commercial use.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, overhaul), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carbureted and EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (A500, A520, NV3500), automatic transmission (A727, A904, 42RH, 44RE), clutch system, drive shafts, differentials, axles.
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional rear disc brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Steering Suspension Systems:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, front suspension (independent torsion bar or coil spring), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, sway bars, wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, switches, wiring diagrams for all major systems, power windows, power locks, horn, radio.
Body Chassis Systems:
Body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, frame components, chassis lubrication.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, service, and repair.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection, battery service, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper/drum replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Installation Procedures:
Component replacement and installation guides for major systems.
Depth Of Information:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, exploded views, part identification.
đ Manual Specifications
Digital Quality:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, printable pages.
Printed Material Quality:
Durable binding, clear text, high-quality paper stock for long-term workshop use.
Binding:
Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for lay-flat use (for printed versions).
Paper:
Durable, grease-resistant paper stock (for printed versions).
Manual Completeness:
Comprehensive coverage for all factory-installed systems and components for the specified years and engine variants.
âïž Engine Specifications
Base Engine:
2.2L Inline-4 (2.2L 4Cyl OHV)
Base Engine Power:
Approx. 96-100 hp @ ~4400 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
Approx. 120-130 lb-ft @ ~2400 rpm
Optional Engine 1:
2.5L Inline-4 (2.5L 4Cyl OHV - early models)
Optional Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 106-112 hp
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 130-140 lb-ft
Optional Engine 2:
3.9L V6 (3.9L V6 OHV - early models)
Optional Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 125-130 hp @ ~4000 rpm
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 180-190 lb-ft @ ~2400 rpm
Optional Engine 3:
3.0L V6 (3.0L V6 OHV - later models)
Optional Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 140-145 hp @ ~4800 rpm
Optional Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 170-180 lb-ft @ ~3600 rpm
Optional Engine 4:
5.2L V8 (Magnum - 1998+ models, not covered by this manual but part of Dakota evolution)
Compression Ratio 2.2L:
8.8:1
Compression Ratio 3.0Lv6:
8.9:1
Fuel Delivery Early Models:
Carburetor (e.g., 2.2L - Carter BBD 2-barrel)
Fuel Delivery Later Models:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) depending on engine.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (standard cab), 124.9 inches (long bed/club cab)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 175-195 inches for short bed, 200+ inches for long bed).
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.0 inches
Overall Height:
Approx. 63.5 - 66.0 inches
Bed Length:
Approx. 6 feet (standard bed), 8 feet (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800 - 3500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4500 - 5500 lbs
Audio System:
AM/FM radio with optional cassette player, optional premium sound system.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges: Speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel gauge, engine temperature, oil pressure, voltmeter. Warning lights.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS on later models. No electronic stability control, traction control, or adaptive cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (e.g., copper plugs ~30,000 miles, platinum ~60,000-100,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed.
Engine Oil Spec 2.2L:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Spec V6:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Atf:
ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler spec)
Coolant Spec:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Issues 1:
Rust: Particularly in rocker panels, wheel wells, and cab corners.
Common Issues 2:
Engine oil leaks: Valve cover gaskets, rear main seals.
Common Issues 3:
Transmission issues: Torque converter problems in automatics, wear in manual synchronizers.
Common Issues 4:
Electrical gremlins: Fraying wiring harnesses, issues with sensors and switches.
Common Issues 5:
Suspension wear: Ball joints, tie rod ends, leaf spring bushings.
Dodge Truck Lineage:
Dodge had a history with compact trucks starting with the Mitsubishi-based D50/Mitsu Starion (1978-1990), but the Dakota was its first domestically engineered compact/mid-size pickup.
First Generation Introduction:
Introduced for the 1987 model year, replacing the Mitsubishi D50. Positioned as a 'compact' truck but larger than many competitors like the S-10/Ranger.
Key Updates During Generation:
Introduction of V6 engines (2.5L, then 3.0L), introduction of 4WD, availability of Club Cab (extended cab), optional airbags, available ABS, minor styling refreshes.
Manufacturing Locations:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
Production Years:
1987-1995 (First Generation)
đ Awards & Recognition
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While not a multiple award winner like some later trucks, the Dakota was recognized for its blend of capability and comfort, often praised for its V6 power and refined ride compared to some competitors.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied over the years; some model years had above-average reliability, while others experienced more issues. The manual helps address these known problems.
