Market Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck, popular for its blend of utility, versatility, and relatively car-like handling compared to larger trucks.
Competitors 2001:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Platform Generation:
Second Generation (1998-2004), known for its updated styling and chassis improvements.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab)
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (6 feet), Long Bed (7.5 feet)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Trim, Diagnosis & Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Printable:
Yes, the PDF format allows for printing specific sections or the entire manual.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics, performance tuning
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE), transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (e.g., independent), rear suspension (e.g., leaf spring), steering gear, power steering system
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or discs depending on configuration), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories, body control module (BCM)
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant handling
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, bumpers
Chassis Frame:
Frame structure, chassis components, corrosion protection
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common and complex issues
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, part numbers
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnosis Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners, specific diagnostic tools, and manual diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Factory-level detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum L4, 3.9L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8 (optional on some trims)
2.5L Horsepower:
Approx. 120-130 hp
3.9L Horsepower:
Approx. 175-180 hp
4.7L Horsepower:
Approx. 230-235 hp
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based depending on engine
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), O2 sensors
Engine Codes Example:
2.5L: 501A, 3.9L: 503A, 4.7L: EAX
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag) for L4 and V6 engines
Optional Transmission V6:
4-speed automatic (42RE) for 3.9L V6
Optional Transmission V8:
4-speed automatic (45RFE) for 4.7L V8
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) with optional part-time transfer case
Transmission Codes Example
Automatic Transmission Codes:
42RE, 45RFE
Wheelbase Regular Cab Short Bed:
Approx. 111.9 inches
Wheelbase Club Cab Short Bed:
Approx. 124.9 inches
Overall Length Club Cab Short Bed:
Approx. 197.1 inches
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches
Overall Height:
Approx. 65.1 inches
Bed Width Between Wheel Wells:
Approx. 41 inches
Bed Depth:
Approx. 19.7 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,500 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio. Up to approximately 6,800 lbs with V8 and proper towing package.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated or 4-star (depending on specific year and test configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not rated or 4-star (depending on specific year and test configuration)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base models. Typically rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (RABS) or 4-wheel ABS.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front occupants
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as indicated by severe service. Manual transmission fluid checks at similar intervals.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies by engine; generally 30,000-100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual: typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V6/L4, 5W-20 or 5W-30 for 4.7L V8. API certified.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Gear Oil GL-5 for manual transmissions and differentials.
Coolant Specification:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT type) or equivalent.
Common Issues 2001:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump), fuel pump failure, minor electrical gremlins, brake wear, intake manifold gasket leaks (on some V6 engines).
Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE) can be prone to overheating or internal wear without proper maintenance. Torque converter shudder.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the original Dodge Power Wagon.
Dakota Introduction:
The Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first compact/mid-size pickup, bridging the gap between smaller Japanese imports and full-size American trucks.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation, launched for the 1998 model year, featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and masculine appearance. The 4.7L V8 was a key addition.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan