🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1992

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)

Chassis Codes:

YJ

Vin Decoder Start:

1B7

Vin Decoder End:

1B7

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1992 Dodge Dakota was positioned as a compact to mid-size pickup truck, offering a balance of utility and maneuverability. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/S-15, and Nissan Hardbody.

Analysis:

Dakota distinguished itself with available V6 engines offering superior power compared to many competitors' standard inline-four offerings, and notably, it was the first compact truck to offer a V8 option in later model years (though not in 1992). Its styling was considered robust and truck-like.

Features:

Available in regular cab and extended cab configurations, various bed lengths, RWD and 4WD options. Known for its strong frame and payload capacity relative to its size.

Engine Advancement:

The availability of the 3.9L V6 engine provided a significant power advantage over many of its four-cylinder competitors in the compact truck segment.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All Dodge Dakota models (all trims and configurations)

Repairs Covered:

All repairs A-Z

Geographic Coverage:

North American market models (primarily US and Canada).

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publisher/edition, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive manuals.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (assumed for dealership-grade manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive shafts, differentials, axles.

Chassis:

Steering system, suspension system (front and rear), brake system (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, horn, wiper/washer system, power accessories, fuse and relay identification, wiring diagrams.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system (HVAC), body structural components.

HVAC:

Climate control system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling (R-12 for this era), blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, and associated components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

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

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation for all major systems.

Overhaul:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential rebuilds, brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilding.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications.

Alignment:

Front and rear wheel alignment specifications and procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed component-level repair and diagnosis.

Depth Detail:

This manual provides in-depth technical information, including step-by-step repair instructions, detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, torque values, and troubleshooting trees. It is designed for professional mechanics and advanced DIY users seeking to perform complex repairs and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Print (original factory/dealership quality)

Quality:

High-quality paper, clear text, and legible diagrams.

Binding:

Professional binding (likely hardcover or spiral-bound for durability)

Paper:

Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4, 3.9L (239 cu in) V6

2.5L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 100-110 hp (varies slightly by year/tune)

2.5L I4 Torque:

Approx. 130-140 lb-ft

3.9L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 125-135 hp (varies slightly by year/tune)

3.9L V6 Torque:

Approx. 170-180 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for both engine options.

Cylinder Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum (for 3.9L V6), Cast Iron (for 2.5L I4)

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder.

Firing Order:

2.5L I4: 1-3-4-2; 3.9L V6: 1-6-5-4-3-2

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag G360 for V6, NP2500 for I4) or 3-speed automatic (A727/A904 variations) or 4-speed automatic (A500/A518).

Optional Transmissions:

Availability of different automatic transmission variants based on engine and drivetrain.

Overdrive:

4-speed automatics feature overdrive (4th gear).

Transfer Case:

New Process NP231 (for 4WD models).

Clutch Type:

Dry, single plate (for manual transmissions).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (consult specific manual for exact type and capacity).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+2 (Type 7176) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

109.1 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

113.9 inches

Bed Lengths:

6 feet and 8 feet

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,300 - 4,000 lbs (varies by configuration)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,000 - 1,500 lbs (varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Approx. 2,000 - 4,000 lbs (varies by configuration and engine)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 inches (5x114.3 mm)

Standard Tire Size:

P205/75R15

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Information not readily available for this specific year and model through standard databases.

Features:

Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) available on rear wheels only on some models.

Features:

Seat belts, strong frame construction, impact-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic AM/FM radio (cassette player optional), analog gauges, manual climate controls.

Features:

Limited driver assistance features for this era. ABS was primarily for rear wheels only when equipped.

Features:

No integrated connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Synthetic oil may extend interval to 5,000-7,500 miles.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum plugs offer longer life).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage and type of transmission fluid.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or SAE 5W-30 (depending on climate and specific engine). Check manual for exact recommendation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for 2.5L I4, 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.9L V6 (with filter change).

Coolant:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (blue, ethylene glycol based) or equivalent. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10-12 quarts (9.5-11.3 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler power steering fluid or an equivalent Dexron II/III automatic transmission fluid.

Common Problems:

Rust on cab corners, rocker panels, and bed; potential for ball joint wear, rear main seal leaks on V6, intake manifold gasket leaks, and aging electrical components. Starter and alternator failures can occur with age.

Recommended Checks:

Regularly inspect for fluid leaks, check suspension components for wear, and monitor brake system condition.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history in truck manufacturing, known for robust and practical vehicles.

First Generation:

The first generation Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year. The 1992 model falls within this first generation and received minor updates.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.

Production Years:

1987-1996 (First Generation)