🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

AN (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact pickup truck segment. The Dodge Dakota was a significant player, bridging the gap between smaller Japanese imports and larger American full-size trucks.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, and Nissan Hardbody.

Notable Features:

The 1995 Dakota was part of the second generation, known for its bold styling, available V8 engines (a segment exclusive at the time), and comfortable ride for a compact truck.

Value:

This manual is essential for any owner or independent mechanic seeking to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs. Its vehicle-specific nature ensures correct procedures, preventing costly mistakes often made with generic guides.

📋 Manual Details

Model Variants Covered:

All 1995 Dodge Dakota models, including base, Sport, and SLT trims. Covers both regular cab and extended cab configurations.

Page Count:

Approximately 1200+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (or Digital PDF facsimile of original)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete coverage for all 1995 Dakota engine options, including diagnostic procedures, component identification, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair for gasoline engines.

Fuel System:

Detailed information on fuel delivery, injection systems (MPI), fuel pressure testing, fuel pump replacement, injectors, and emissions control systems related to fuel.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation, hoses, and coolant specifications for optimal performance and longevity.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, and electronic control module (ECM) related ignition functions.

Transmission:

Service and repair for both manual (Getrag 5-speed) and automatic (30RH 3-speed, 46RH 4-speed) transmissions, including fluid types, capacity, torque converter, valve body, and internal component servicing.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, driveshaft removal and installation, U-joints, differentials, and 4WD system components (if equipped).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, bushings, shocks/struts), alignment specifications, and procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system service, steering gear, tie rods, linkages, and hydraulic pressure testing.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems. Includes procedures for brake pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid specifications, bleeding, master cylinder, and ABS system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, and body electrical components.

Body And Frame:

Exterior and interior body panel removal and installation, glass replacement, door mechanisms, seat adjustments, and basic body repair procedures.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling (R134a), compressor service, blower motor, climate controls, and heater core replacement.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks and changes for all vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Systematic troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine control, and step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability and electrical issues.

Repair:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually every system on the vehicle.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting guides organized by symptom to help technicians quickly identify and resolve problems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, diagnostic parameters, and critical measurements for engine, transmission, chassis, and body components.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Detail:

If digital (PDF), it is typically a high-resolution scan of the original factory manual, ensuring clarity and readability. Searchable text functionality is dependent on the digital conversion quality.

Print Quality Detail:

Original factory manuals are printed on durable paper with clear diagrams and text. High-quality reproductions maintain these standards.

Binding Type Detail:

Typically perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use and ability to lay flat during work. Original factory manuals often come in a sturdy binder.

Paper Type Detail:

Durable, semi-gloss paper stock suitable for shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4, 3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6, 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8.

3 9L V6 Horsepower:

175 hp @ 4800 rpm

3 9L V6 Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5 2L V8 Horsepower:

200 hp @ 4000 rpm

5 2L V8 Torque:

285 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all engine options.

2 5L Engine Block:

Cast Iron

3 9L V6 Engine Block:

Cast Iron

5 2L V8 Engine Block:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Heads:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Standard:

Getrag A500SE 5-Speed Manual (likely standard on 4-cylinder and some V6 models).

Automatic Transmission Optional 1:

Chrysler 30RH 3-Speed Automatic (for 4-cylinder and some V6 models).

Automatic Transmission Optional 2:

Chrysler 46RH 4-Speed Automatic with Overdrive (for V6 and V8 models).

46Rh Overdrive Gear:

Provides improved fuel economy on the highway.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (Chrysler specification, equivalent to Dexron III in many cases, but always confirm in manual).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (or as specified).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab configuration (e.g., approx. 111.9 inches for regular cab, 124.9 inches for extended cab).

Bed Lengths:

Available in 6-foot and 7-foot bed lengths.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3,300 - 4,200 lbs depending on configuration and engine.

Towing Capacity Range:

Up to 7,000 lbs for properly equipped V8 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Refer to specific NHTSA reports for 1995; generally, compact trucks of this era had basic safety features.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional, particularly on rear-wheel-drive models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was standard equipment for 1995.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models, standard on higher trims.

Trailer Tow Prep:

Wiring harnesses for trailer lights and braking systems were often available as options or dealer-installed accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for precise intervals based on oil specification).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Approximately every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as recommended by the manual based on usage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles, typically using a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.

Engine Oil Specification:

10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating based on engine).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3.

Common Problem 1:

Cracked exhaust manifolds on V8 engines due to heat cycling.

Common Problem 2:

Radiator tank leaks or core failures.

Common Problem 3:

Wear in front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) leading to steering looseness.

Common Problem 4:

Transmission cooler line leaks or failure leading to fluid loss.

Common Problem 5:

Chrysler's internal valve body issues in the 46RH transmission, sometimes leading to delayed shifts or slipping.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history in the truck market, known for producing robust and often powerful vehicles. The Dakota cemented their presence in the growing compact/mid-size truck segment.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (AN) began with the 1997 model year, so this 1995 model is the final year of the first generation (YJ/YJ2).

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.

First Generation:

1987-1996

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 1995 model might be difficult to pinpoint, the Dakota generally received positive reviews for its capability and available V8 power.