Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet owners
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, available V6 power, rear-wheel drive and 4x4 options, relatively simple mechanics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the vehicle, reducing reliance on costly dealership services and extending vehicle lifespan.
Model Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Engine Options:
2.2L I4, 2.5L I4, 3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi), 3.9L V6 (Magnum)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Type:
Workshop Repair and Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Starting & Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC System, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Glass, Bumpers, Bed Configurations
Maintenance:
Routine service, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, Error code interpretation (OBD I for applicable models)
Repair Rebuild:
Engine component removal/installation/rebuild, Transmission service and overhaul, Brake system repairs, Suspension and steering component replacement, Electrical component repair
Adjustment Calibration:
Wheel alignment, Brake adjustments, Clutch adjustments, Ignition timing (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Standard Transmission I4:
4-speed Manual
Standard Transmission V6:
5-speed Manual (Getrag G360 on some 3.9L V6)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic (A727/42RH), 4-speed Automatic (44RH/46RH on later 3.9L V6 models)
Drive Configurations:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD), Four Wheel Drive (4WD)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Varies by year and configuration; generally rated fair to good for the era.
Brakes:
Front disc, Rear drum (standard on most), optional rear discs on some performance models.
ABS:
Optional on rear wheels, later available on all four wheels depending on model year and trim.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag introduced as standard equipment starting in 1990 model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, check manual for manual transmissions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type I4:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended (check manual for viscosity variations).
Engine Oil Type V6:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for viscosity variations).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Chrysler ATF+ (ATF+2 for later models) - Type 7176
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific gearbox).
Common Engine Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 3.0L V6, exhaust manifold leaks, oil pan gasket leaks.
Common Transmission Problems:
Wear in automatic transmission clutch packs, synchro issues in manual transmissions (especially early models).
Common Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, power steering leaks.
Common Electrical Problems:
Alternator failures, starter motor issues, intermittent electrical connections, dashboard warning light malfunctions.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, from the Power Wagon to the Ram series.
1St Gen Introduction:
Launched in 1987 as Dodge's first compact pickup truck, designed to compete in a growing segment.
Major Updates:
Significant facelift and powertrain upgrades in 1992, including the introduction of the Magnum V6 engine and revised styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico
Production Years Total:
1987-1995
