🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

First Generation (AN)

Production Years Covered:

1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth service information

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Hilux (in certain markets)

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab)

Value Proposition:

Cost-effective solution for maintaining and repairing the vehicle compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, common for workshop manuals)

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system (chain/belt), emission controls

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, engine diagnostics, troubleshooting, performance tuning

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission (A5000 series), clutch, gearbox operation, overhaul, adjustments, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (A500/A518/A618), torque converter, hydraulic controls, electronic controls (where applicable), overhaul, adjustments, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, U-joints, differentials, wheel bearings, 4WD system (transfer case operation and maintenance)

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent torsion bar or coil spring depending on configuration), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, ball joints, control arms, steering knuckle, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering column, steering linkage, troubleshooting, fluid specifications

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake system, component replacement and bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, warning indicators, horn, power windows, power locks, wipers, cooling fan motor

Body And Frame:

Body construction, frame repair, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, body panels, interior trim, weatherstripping, rust prevention and repair

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant types, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, control panels, diagnosis and repair

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

General diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, wiring diagrams and schematics

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement

Engine Repair:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing chain/belt replacement

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter changes, seal replacement, torque converter replacement, complete transmission rebuilds

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement, brake bleeding

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, control arm replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering gear overhaul

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, component testing, diagnosing electrical faults

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, dent repair, door and window adjustment, lock and latch repair, trim installation/removal

HVAC Repair:

Refrigerant system evacuation and recharge, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), blower motor replacement, leak detection

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIY mechanics.

Diagnostic Level:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, including symptom analysis and component testing. May include references to scan tools for electronic systems.

Repair Level:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical, electrical, and body components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

Digital (PDF implied)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text for efficient information retrieval

Printability:

Generally printable for physical use

Image Resolution:

Expected to contain clear diagrams, illustrations, and photos

N/A:

Not applicable for digital format, but implies a well-organized structure if printed

N/A:

Not applicable for digital format

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4 (AMC 150)

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 123 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Engine 2:

3.9L (239 cu in) V6 (LA3)

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 170 hp @ 4800 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Engine 3:

5.2L (318 cu in) V8 (Magnum)

Engine 3 Power:

Approx. 205 hp @ 4400 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (varies by year and specific output)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 and V8 models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Compression Ratio I4:

8.8:1 (approx.)

Compression Ratio V6:

8.7:1 (approx.)

Bore X Stroke I4:

3.88 x 3.43 in (98.5 x 87.0 mm) (approx.)

Bore X Stroke V6:

3.66 x 3.00 in (93.0 x 76.2 mm) (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

4-speed Manual (Getrag G360, for some early V6/V8 applications, later models may have different standard manuals)

Transmission 2:

3-speed Automatic (A904/A999) for 4-cylinder

Transmission 3:

4-speed Automatic (A500/A518) for V6 and V8 models

Overdrive:

Available on 4-speed automatic transmissions (A500/A518)

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system available with manual or automatic transfer case engagement

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

111.9 inches (Standard Bed), 124.9 inches (Long Bed)

Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 185-208 inches)

Width:

Approx. 72.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 66.2 inches

Bed Length:

6 feet (standard), 8 feet (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (varies by configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,300 lbs (varies by configuration and engine)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Higher rollover resistance rating for 4x4 models compared to 4x2.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on rear wheels, later years offered on all four wheels.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on most models from 1990, passenger airbag optional/later standard depending on year.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts with shoulder belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player available on higher trims. Basic speaker systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on most models.

N/A:

Limited to factory radio and basic vehicle electronics; no integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil formulation).

Engine Coolant Change:

Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2 years/50,000 miles (use Mopar OAT coolant or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Check every 15,000 miles, change fluid and filter typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on towing or severe usage.

Spark Plug Replacement I4:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to specific plug type).

Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:

Typically every 30,000-100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (refer to specific plug type).

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for I4 and V6 (depending on temperature), SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V8. Consult manual for exact viscosity based on ambient temperature and engine type. API Service Category SG or higher.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent such as Dexron III/Mercon, but ATF+3 is preferred for longevity).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Coolant:

Chrysler Long Life OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler spec) or equivalent.

Engine I4:

Head gasket leaks, oil consumption, valve stem seals.

Engine V8 Magnum:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (common for many Chrysler V8s of this era), oil pan gasket leaks, lifter noise.

Transmission Automatic:

Leaking transmission cooler lines, torque converter shudder, worn clutches/seals, shift solenoid failures.

Suspension:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; leaky shock absorbers.

Electrical:

Intermittent issues with body control modules, power window motors, dashboard instrument cluster failures.

Body Rust:

Rocker panels, cab corners, and rear wheel wells are common areas for rust.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck History:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, building on their reputation for work-oriented vehicles.

Dakota Introduction:

The first-generation Dodge Dakota (AN platform) was introduced for the 1987 model year, bridging the gap between compact and full-size pickups. The 1990-1995 models represent a significant portion of this successful first generation.

Mid-Cycle Refresh:

The 1990 model year saw a significant facelift and updates, including revised styling, improved interior, and the introduction of the Magnum V8 engine, making the 1990-1995 period a key evolution for the Dakota.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While not specifically for this period, the Dakota platform itself received acclaim. The first generation Dakota was Motor Trend's Truck of the Year in 1988.