🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year Range:

1991-1996

Vin Decode Section Availability:

Likely, as standard for service manuals of this era.

Engine Code Coverage:

Covers all engine variants offered for the specified years.

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/mid-size pickup truck.

Target Audience:

Owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and dealership technicians.

Competitors 1991-1996:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma (introduced 1995), Nissan Hardbody/Frontier.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust construction, available V6 engines, good towing capacity for its class, practical utility.

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, detailed, factory-level information, crucial for accurate and efficient repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Model Coverage:

All models and trim levels of the 1991-1996 Dodge Dakota.

Repair Scope:

A-Z (from routine maintenance to complete overhaul).

Estimated Page Count:

Typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive service manual of this scope.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Factory-style technical documentation).

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed book or potentially a digital format (e.g., PDF) if a modern reproduction.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging, engine performance diagnostics.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, service, diagnostics, fluid specifications, gear ratios.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, U-joints, 4WD system components (if applicable).

Brakes:

Disc and drum brake systems, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic components, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, steering linkage, shocks, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack, tie rods, alignment.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instrumentation, power accessories, charging system, starting system, ignition system, fuses, relays, ECUs.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system, body hardware, glass replacement.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, components.

Restraints:

Seat belts, airbag system (if equipped) inspection and basic service information.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable for the era.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor mechanical and electrical components.

Overhaul:

Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures.

Installation:

Procedures for replacing major components, accessories, and body parts.

Adjustments:

Wheel alignment, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments, idle speed adjustments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using basic diagnostic tools and interpreting symptoms specific to the era's technology.

Special Tools:

Listing and description of any special tools required for specific repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

If digital, likely searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and text, suitable for shop use.

Binding:

Durable binding, typically a spiral-bound or hardbound format for shop usability.

Paper Quality:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand shop conditions and protect diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 1991-1993:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4 (Turbocharged option available early in the range).

Base Engine 1994-1996:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4.

Optional Engine Early:

3.9L (239 cu in) V6 (Magnum).

Optional Engine Later:

3.9L (239 cu in) V6 (Magnum) / 5.2L (318 cu in) V8 (Magnum - introduced for 1993).

2.5L I4 Hp:

Approx. 105-113 hp (depending on year/tune).

3.9L V6 Hp:

Approx. 170-178 hp.

5.2L V8 Hp:

Approx. 205-230 hp.

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for early 4-cyl, Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6/V8.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

ECM Type:

Chrysler's proprietary engine control modules (ECMs) of the era, with specific diagnostic protocols.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Aisin AX5 5-speed manual (common with I4/V6).

Automatic Transmission Early:

Chrysler A500/A518 4-speed automatic overdrive (with OD lock-out switch on earlier models).

Automatic Transmission Late:

Chrysler 42RE 4-speed automatic overdrive.

Transfer Case:

Manual or electronic shift 4WD transfer case options available on most models.

Manual Trans Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., ATF+3 or equivalent, or GL-4 gear oil depending on specific gearbox).

Automatic Trans Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 111.9 inches.

Wheelbase Club Cab:

Approx. 124.7 inches.

Bed Lengths:

Short bed (6 feet) and Long bed (7.5 feet).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,000 - 4,000 lbs depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity Range:

Varies significantly by engine and configuration, up to approximately 7,000 lbs for V8 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Ratings vary by year and test procedures. Generally not rated as highly as modern vehicles due to age and era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many models, particularly rear-wheel anti-lock.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag introduced during this generation, becoming standard later in the range.

Seatbelts:

Standard three-point front seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player available on higher trims or later models. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most trims.

Auxiliary Inputs:

None from the factory; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (check manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic: 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed or at higher mileage intervals.

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at ~30,000 miles, subsequent changes every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L I4:

Approx. 5 US quarts with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L V6:

Approx. 5 US quarts with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 5.2L V8:

Approx. 5 US quarts with filter.

Recommended Engine Oil:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler's Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Common Problem 1:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V8 models).

Common Problem 2:

Rear main seal leaks on V8 engines.

Common Problem 3:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to truck usage.

Common Problem 4:

Power steering pump leaks or failure.

Common Problem 5:

Door hinge rust and sag, window regulator issues.

Common Problem 6:

Cracked dashboards (plastic degradation from sun exposure).

Common Problem 7:

Fuel pump failures.

Common Problem 8:

Ignition module or crank sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Lineage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks, building on the legacy of the Ram line.

Generation 1:

First generation Dodge Dakota (1987-1996). This manual covers the latter half of this generation, which received styling updates and engine introductions (like the Magnum V8).

Platform:

Built on a dedicated compact pickup truck platform, distinct from larger Ram trucks.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primary manufacturing location was Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Notable Awards Or Accolades:

While specific awards for this generation may be limited, the Dodge Dakota was recognized for its unique positioning as a larger compact/smaller full-size truck, offering V8 power uncommon in its class at the time.