đ·ïž Basic Information
Generation:
First Generation (1987-1996)
Covered Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Vehicle Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, fleet owners, service technicians.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup.
Vehicle Appeal:
One of the first compact pickups to offer V6 engines and sportier styling, offering a blend of utility and everyday drivability.
Engine:
All gasoline engines, including V6 and V8 variants.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch service and drivetrain components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (where applicable), drum and disc brake service, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starter, fuse/relay locations and functions, instrument cluster.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, bumpers, cooling system, exhaust system.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacement, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBDI era).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems.
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures with torque specifications and clearances.
Wiring:
Detailed wiring diagrams for various vehicle circuits.
Depth:
Expert Level: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics.
đ Manual Specifications
Digital Quality:
High-resolution, printable, searchable PDF (typical)
Physical Quality:
N/A (assuming digital product, but describes ideal printed equivalent)
Physical Binding:
N/A (assuming digital product, but describes ideal printed equivalent: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat use)
Physical Paper:
N/A (assuming digital product, but describes ideal printed equivalent: Durable, glossy or matte paper stock suitable for workshop environments)
âïž Engine Specifications
Base Engine:
2.2L (135 ci) 4-cylinder (Chrysler 147)
Mid Engine Option:
3.0L (181 ci) V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72, later Chrysler design)
Performance Engine:
3.9L (239 ci) V8 (LA-series, optional in later years, notably 1991-1993)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 100 hp (2.2L) to 180+ hp (3.9L V8).
Torque Range:
Approximately 125 lb-ft (2.2L) to 225+ lb-ft (3.9L V8).
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection (multi-port for V6/V8, throttle-body injection for early 2.2L)
Base Transmission:
4-speed manual transmission.
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed automatic (A500), later 4-speed automatic (42RE/44RE).
Performance Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission available with V6 and V8 models.
Drive Type:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard, 4-wheel drive (4WD) optional.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112 inches (standard cab).
Length:
Approx. 178-195 inches depending on cab and bed configuration.
Width:
Approx. 70 inches.
Bed Length:
Short bed (approx. 6 feet) and long bed (approx. 7.5 feet) configurations.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,800 lbs depending on configuration.
NHTSA Ratings:
Limited official data available from this era. Refer to individual year/model for specific tests.
Brakes:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional rear ABS on some models.
Seatbelts:
Front lap and shoulder belts.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard in later model years (around 1994).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, later models may have CD players. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.
Speakers:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Optional on most models.
Power Windows Locks:
Optional on higher trim levels, manual operation standard on base models.
Trailer Tow Package:
Available option including heavy-duty cooling, trailer wiring harness, and hitch receiver.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, change every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific engine recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to specific transmission type for correct fluid).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), typically Ethylene Glycol based.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue in areas with road salt, particularly on cab corners, rocker panels, and rear wheel arches.
Interior Wear:
Dashboard cracks, worn seat upholstery, and door panel degradation are common due to age.
Electrical Gremlins:
Flickering lights, intermittent power to accessories, and issues with the gauge cluster can occur due to aging wiring and connections.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
Engine Cooling:
Radiator leaks, water pump failures, and thermostat issues are not uncommon on vehicles of this age.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, known for their robustness and performance-oriented offerings.
Dakota Launch:
The Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year as a response to the growing compact truck market, offering a larger size and more powerful engine options than competitors.
Mid Generation Updates:
Received minor styling updates and powertrain enhancements throughout its first generation. The V8 engine was a significant addition for 1991.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
đ Awards & Recognition
Truck Of The Year:
While the first generation didn't win major 'Truck of the Year' awards in its launch year, it was recognized for its innovation and capability in the compact truck segment.
Popular Mechanics Test:
Often featured in automotive reviews of the time for its V8 option and comfortable ride compared to rivals.
