Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component replacement, timing, seals, gaskets
Engine Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, emissions control
Engine Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, timing control
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear ratios, shifting mechanisms
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission overhaul, torque converter, hydraulic control, valve body
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, U-joints, differential, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, springs, shocks, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkage, column
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), hydraulic system, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal, repair, structural components, chassis
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Dashboard And Instruments:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, switchgear
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if applicable for the year, though less common for 1991)
General Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication
Engine Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting engine performance issues, misfires, starting problems
Transmission Repair:
Complete rebuild procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing, hydraulic system bleeding
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Using wiring diagrams to diagnose electrical faults
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Suspension Component Replacement:
Ball joints, tie rods, control arms, shock absorbers
HVAC System Repair:
Component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), refrigerant handling (with caution for era's refrigerants)
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications for caster, camber, and toe angles
Body Repair:
Dent repair, panel replacement, rust treatment
Depth Level:
Complete vehicle overhaul and repair
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine internal clearances, bearing play, etc.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-quality electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Base Engine 1991:
2.5L 8-valve OHV Inline-4 (4-250)
Base Engine Horsepower 1991:
~100 hp @ 4400 rpm
Base Engine Torque 1991:
~135 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Optional Engine 1991:
3.0L 12-valve OHV V6 (6G72)
Optional Engine Horsepower 1991:
~143-150 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm
Optional Engine Torque 1991:
~160-170 lb-ft @ 2400-3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual)
ECU Type:
Chrysler's proprietary engine control unit (ECU)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (as per original recommendation for this era).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on use and transmission type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; generally around 30,000 miles for conventional plugs.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 for the 4-cylinder, 10W-30 for the V6 (check manual for precise spec).
Engine Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant) - check capacity in manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent power steering fluid (check manual).
Common Issues 1991:
Rust (especially wheel wells and frame), potential for ignition system issues (e.g., distributor cap/rotor), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, minor electrical gremlins.
Engine Performance Notes:
4-cylinder can feel underpowered when loaded or at altitude. V6 offers significantly better performance.
Manufacturer History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing robust vehicles, including trucks and performance cars.
First Generation Intro:
The Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year, designed to fill a gap between smaller Japanese compact trucks and larger American full-size pickups.
1991 Update Significance:
The 1991 model represents a mid-cycle refresh for the first generation, featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain improvements.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.