🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Years Covered:

2000, 2001, 2002

Product Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck (often considered mid-size by some metrics)

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Unique Selling Points:

Available V8 engine option (4.7L Magnum), distinctive styling, good towing/hauling capacity for its class, relatively robust build.

Buyer Profile:

DIY mechanics, small business owners needing a work truck, individuals seeking a practical and capable pickup with V8 power.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

General Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures for all systems.

Specific Sections Mentioned:

Introduction, Lubrication/Maintenance, Suspension/Differential/Drive

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for full workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital (PDF) based on modern sales, but could be printed. Assuming digital for comprehensive distribution.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.7L V6, 4.7L V8), Transmission (42RLE Automatic, NV3500 Manual, NV271 Transfer Case for 4WD)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front: Independent, Rear: Leaf Spring), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc depending on configuration), Drivetrain (Front/Rear Axles, Driveshafts, Differentials)

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Starting and Charging System, Body Control Modules, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, Power Accessories

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Glass, HVAC System

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, hoses, heater core.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement

Repair:

Engine mechanical repairs (head gaskets, timing components, internal seals), Transmission rebuilds/replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, springs, ball joints), Brake system overhauls, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Fuel system repairs

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic procedures, component testing (voltage, resistance)

Recalibration Procedures:

PCM/ECM relearn procedures, ABS module calibration (if applicable).

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, including wiring diagrams and pinpoint tests.

Depth:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts for both routine maintenance and major component overhauls.

Torque Specifications:

All critical torque values for fasteners in engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and chassis components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable, Printable)

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Physical Binding:

N/A (assuming digital)

Physical Paper:

N/A (assuming digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.7L (226 ci) Magnum V6

Engine Option 2:

4.7L (287 ci) Magnum V8

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 210-215 hp @ 5200 rpm

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230-235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235-240 hp @ 4800 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 295-305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Spark Plugs:

Champion Copper Plus (e.g., RC12ECC) or equivalent platinum/iridium plugs recommended by Dodge for longevity. Gap: 0.045 inches.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7L V6: 5 quarts (4.7L), 4.7L V8: 7 quarts (6.6L) with filter. Always verify with dipstick.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Option:

New Venture Gear NV3500 (5-speed manual)

Automatic Transmission Option:

Chrysler 42RLE (4-speed automatic)

Transfer Case 4Wd:

New Venture Gear NV271 (Part-time 4WD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil

42Rle Capacity:

Approx. 10 quarts (9.5 liters)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

111.7 inches (2837 mm) for Regular Cab, 124.7 inches (3167 mm) for Club Cab

Bed Length:

6.0 feet (1.8 m) or 7.5 feet (2.3 m) depending on configuration

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 3,800 lbs to 4,500 lbs depending on configuration (engine, drivetrain, cab style)

Max Towing:

Up to approximately 6,700 lbs (with 4.7L V8, appropriate towing package, and proper configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Likely 3-star or 4-star ratings in frontal crash tests for driver and passenger (based on era and vehicle class). Specific data required from actual NHTSA reports.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard on rear-wheel-drive models, optional or standard on 4x4.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player. Optional Infinity speaker systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim level.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using quality synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions (dusty environments require more frequent checks).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Approximately every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed or every 100,000 miles.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant 10-Year/100,000 Mile Formula (Chrysler MS-9769) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Problem 1:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V8 engines). Symptoms include coolant leaks, rough idle, misfires.

Common Problem 2:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (on V8 engines). Symptoms include ticking noise on startup, exhaust smell.

Common Problem 3:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failure can lead to various drivability issues, starting problems, or check engine lights.

Common Problem 4:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to typical truck usage. Symptoms include clunking noises, steering looseness.

Common Problem 5:

Interior trim creaks and rattles are not uncommon in trucks of this era.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, known for their 'Ram' line which evolved into its own brand.

Second Generation Dakota:

This 2000-2002 period represents the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, launched in 1997, known for its larger size than previous compact trucks and offering V8 power.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 2000-2002 models are not prominently documented as 'Truck of the Year', the Dakota generation was generally well-regarded for its class-leading V8 option.