Market Segment:
Compact/Mid-size pickup truck, competing with Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Key Selling Points:
Stronger towing and payload capacities than many compact rivals, availability of V8 engines, unique styling
Manual Advantage:
Provides specific, dealer-level technical data essential for accurate repair and maintenance, avoiding generic guesswork.
Vehicle Advantage:
Offered a blend of compact maneuverability with some of the capabilities of larger trucks, particularly with the optional V8.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of all engine variants
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic and manual transmissions
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials and driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, and service
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, disc and drum brake service
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, and linkage service
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body:
Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, and related systems
Chassis:
Frame, underbody, and related components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts, fault codes, and testing procedures for all systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical data
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Expert-level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
File Format:
PDF (typically for digital versions)
Print Quality:
High resolution, clear diagrams and text (for digital distribution)
Binding Type:
N/A (for digital) / Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (for print)
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital) / Heavy-duty, glossy paper (common for professional manuals)
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick access to information (digital)
Illustration Quality:
Detailed diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations
2.5L Magnum I4:
Engine Code: ERT. Horsepower: Approx. 122-125 hp. Torque: Approx. 150-155 lb-ft.
3.9L Magnum V6:
Engine Code: EFA. Horsepower: Approx. 175-180 hp. Torque: Approx. 230-235 lb-ft.
5.2L Magnum V8:
Engine Code: EBL. Horsepower: Approx. 230-235 hp. Torque: Approx. 300-305 lb-ft.
5.9L Magnum V8 (Available Late 1999-2000):
Engine Code: EAS. Horsepower: Approx. 245-250 hp. Torque: Approx. 345-350 lb-ft.
Notable Engine Feature:
Magnum engine family known for robust construction and good torque output, especially the V8 variants.
Fuel Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 360 for V8, NV3500 for V6)
Automatic Transmission:
42RE 4-speed automatic (V6), 46RE 4-speed automatic (V8)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with electronically controlled transfer case (NV233, NV244)
Atf Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent recommended specification)
Manual Trans Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent for manual transmissions
Wheelbase:
111.9 inches (standard cab), 124.9 inches (club cab)
Bed Length:
6.25 ft (standard bed), 8.17 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs, depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,050 lbs (with appropriate engine and towing package)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (1997-1999 models)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (1997-1999 models)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player options. Limited digital integration typical for the era.
Cruise Control:
Standard on many trims, optional on others.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, door locks, and mirrors available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Engine Oil Spec V6 V8:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional Motor Oil (consult manual for exact specification and capacity)
Engine Oil Spec I4:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 Synthetic or Conventional Motor Oil
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Long Life 5/150 coolant (or equivalent green ethylene glycol-based coolant for older specifications)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problem 1:
Radiator leaks or cracking, especially upper tanks.
Common Problem 2:
Ball joint wear leading to clunking noises or steering issues.
Common Problem 3:
Ignition system issues (e.g., coil packs, spark plug wires).
Common Problem 4:
Transmission cooler line leaks or internal transmission wear.
Common Problem 5:
Water pump failure.
Dodge Truck History:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Gen Launch:
The second generation (AN) Dakota debuted for 1997, featuring a significant redesign and the introduction of the V8 engine option, differentiating it from most compact pickups.
Engine Upgrade:
The 5.9L V8 was added in 1999, further enhancing its performance and towing credentials.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
