Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Blazer, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Unique Selling Points:
Available V8 engine (4.7L Magnum) in its class, robust chassis, good towing capacity for its size.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.7L Magnum, 4.7L Magnum V8), Transmission (42RE, 45RFE, NV3500), Driveline, Differentials, Transfer Case (4WD models)
Chassis:
Suspension (front independent, rear solid axle), Steering, Brakes (ABS, RWAL), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Ignition, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Powertrain Diagnostics
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Doors, Windows, Locks, Bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, electrical component repair, body panel replacement
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, emissions specifications
Engine Management:
Detailed information on Engine Control Module (ECM) operation, sensor testing, and actuator diagnostics.
Emissions Control:
Diagnosis and repair of evaporative emission control (EVAP) systems, catalytic converters, and oxygen sensors.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic diagnostics to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting guides.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes comprehensive, color-coded electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers the use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., DRB III) and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick access to information
Compatibility:
Compatible with all PDF readers on PC, Mac, tablets, and smartphones.
Resolution:
High-resolution, clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Digital PDF (Not a physical binding)
Engine 1 Power:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Engine 2 Power:
230 hp @ 4800 rpm (early models), 240 hp @ 4800 rpm (later models)
Engine 2 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early models), 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) on 4.7L V8
Engine Displacement Ci:
220 cubic inches
Engine Displacement Ci:
285 cubic inches
Transmission Type V6:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE)
Transmission Type V8:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500)
Transmission Type V8 Auto:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE)
Overdrive:
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Fluid Spec:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear lubricant, SAE 75W-90
Overall Length:
197.1 inches (standard bed)
Cab Configurations:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Bed Lengths:
6.25 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (optional)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3800 - 4500 lbs, depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,400 lbs (when properly equipped)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Four Stars
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Four Stars
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Rwal:
Rear-Wheel Anti-Lock (RWAL) on some models/trims
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners
Audio Systems:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
HVAC:
Manual or automatic climate control, air conditioning.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles for 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 (typically platinum or iridium type).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (3.7L V6), SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (4.7L V8) meeting appropriate API specifications (e.g., API SN or newer).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically an orange or red ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Complaints Powertrain:
Spark plug blow-out on early 4.7L V8 models (requires updated procedure or inserts), intermittent transmission shifting issues, potential for cracked exhaust manifolds on 4.7L V8.
Common Complaints Chassis:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), RWAL sensor issues, potential for rear axle seal leaks.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Instrument cluster failure, power window motor failures, blower motor resistor failure.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation, later DaimlerChrysler, then Chrysler Group LLC
Generation 2:
Second Generation Dakota (1997-2004). This manual covers the later years of this generation, including significant updates in 2000.
Generation 3 Intro:
The 2005 model year marked the introduction of the third generation, which shares some underlying chassis components but features a significantly revised exterior and interior. This manual fully covers the transition year into the third generation.
Assembly Locations:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico
