🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1994

Body Style:

Compact Pickup Truck

Market Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Platform Code:

Fourth Generation Dakota (AN body style)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1994 Dodge Dakota was positioned as a compact pickup truck offering a balance of capability, comfort, and value, competing with models like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/S-15, and Toyota Tacoma.

Competitive Analysis Summary:

The Dakota often distinguished itself with more powerful engine options and a more robust, truck-like feel compared to some smaller competitors. Its availability in V6 and V8 engines was a key differentiator in the compact segment.

Key Features Of Vehicle:

Available in regular cab and club cab configurations, a variety of bed lengths, rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive, and a range of gasoline engines.

Key Features Of Manual:

Officially licensed, comprehensive service and repair coverage, digital software format for ease of access and searchability, detailed technical specifications and diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair for 1994 Dodge Dakota

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or digital download based on description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emission controls

Transmission Systems:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid service

Drivetrain Systems:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, differentials, driveshafts, axles

Suspension Systems:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs

Steering Systems:

Power steering system service, components, diagnostics

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc and drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)

Electrical Systems:

Starting and charging systems, battery, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, frame structure

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements), tune-ups

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Diagnostic Procedures:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as alternators, starters, water pumps, radiators, brake pads, etc.

Rebuild Procedures:

Engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical system wiring schematics

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics)

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital software, likely searchable and printable. Quality depends on original source.

Print Quality Description:

N/A (Software - print quality dependent on user's printer)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2.5L I4:

2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4, MPI, 123 hp @ 4800 rpm, 148 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3.9L V6:

3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6, MPI, 170 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 5.2L V8:

5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8, MPI, 230 hp @ 4400 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Bore X Stroke 2.5L:

3.88 in x 3.25 in (98.5 mm x 82.5 mm)

Bore X Stroke 3.9L:

3.66 in x 3.57 in (93 mm x 90.5 mm)

Bore X Stroke 5.2L:

3.91 in x 3.57 in (99.3 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio 2.5L:

8.8:1

Compression Ratio 3.9L:

8.7:1

Compression Ratio 5.2L:

8.7:1

Fuel System Type:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Pressure Spec:

31-39 PSI (214-269 kPa) (Varies by engine)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 5-speed manual transmission (NV3500)

Optional Transmission V6:

Chrysler 42RE 4-speed automatic transmission

Optional Transmission V8:

Chrysler 46RH 4-speed automatic transmission

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Gear oil (API GL-4 or GL-5) - specific viscosity depends on ambient temperature

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

109.9 inches (2791 mm)

Wheelbase Club Cab:

124.9 inches (3172 mm)

Overall Length Std Bed:

196.4 inches (4989 mm)

Overall Length Long Bed:

211.4 inches (5369 mm)

Width Excluding Mirrors:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

66.8 inches (1697 mm)

Bed Length Standard:

75.3 inches (1913 mm)

Bed Length Long:

90.3 inches (2294 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3500 - 4300 lbs (1588 - 1950 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

4900 - 6000 lbs (2223 - 2722 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1994:

NHTSA crash test data for this era is limited. Generally, compact trucks of this period performed acceptably in frontal impacts but offered less side-impact protection.

Active Safety Features:

Rear-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) on rear wheels only (standard on V8, optional on others). Four-wheel ABS was not commonly available.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced cab structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System 1994:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (if equipped), fuel, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and voltmeter.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS on rear wheels only. No electronic stability control, traction control, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Standard cigarette lighter outlet for power.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months. If using synthetic oil, consult manual or extend based on oil quality and driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine: 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for V6/V8 (copper plugs), potentially longer for platinum plugs if equipped.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate). Refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service classification (e.g., API SG or higher).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a green type. Mopar Zerex G-05 or equivalent is often recommended for Chrysler products of this era.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler's proprietary fluid, often equivalent to Dexron II/III).

Common Issues Powertrain:

Premature wear in automatic transmission valve bodies, rear main seal leaks on V8 engines, intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V8s), lifter noise on V6 engines.

Common Issues Chassis:

Rust on rocker panels and cab corners, worn ball joints and tie rod ends, brake component wear, rear leaf spring sag.

Common Issues Electrical:

Faulty alternator, starter motor issues, problematic instrument cluster components, wiring harness degradation.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, starting with the original Dodge Power Wagon. The Dakota was introduced to fill a gap in the market for a compact truck that offered more power and size than some Japanese competitors.

Dakota Generation Evolution:

The 1994 model year represents the final year of the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which was introduced in 1987. This generation saw the introduction of the V8 engine option, significantly boosting its performance capabilities.

Manufacturing Locations:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan; St. Louis Assembly (later).

Production Years:

1987-1996 (Second Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards Dakota 1994:

While specific awards for the 1994 model are not widely publicized, the Dodge Dakota's Magnum V8 engine was generally well-regarded for its power and torque in the compact truck segment.