Segment:
Mid-size SUV, known for its combination of comfort, capability, and available V8 power.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer/Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Highlights:
Body-on-frame construction, available V8 engines, spacious interior, rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive, significant towing capacity for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic & manual), transfer case, driveline components (driveshafts, differentials, axles).
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear independent, coil springs, control arms, shocks, struts), steering (power steering system, steering column, steering gear), braking system (ABS, hydraulic components, pads, rotors, parking brake).
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrument cluster, infotainment, wiring diagrams for all systems, fuses, relays, power distribution.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC system (heater, air conditioning), seats, airbags, body control modules.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad inspection.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, differential repair, suspension component replacement, brake system servicing, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system repair.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, wiring harness diagnostics, scan tool usage, electrical system troubleshooting.
Restoration Refurbishment:
Detailed procedures for disassembly, component cleaning, part replacement, reassembly, and adjustment for most vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Includes diagnostic procedures, implying the need for OBD-II scan tools and potentially specialized Chrysler diagnostic equipment for advanced troubleshooting.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for readability and searchability.
Quality:
High-resolution scans/digital creation ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (for digital format), but if printed, typically perfect bound or spiral bound for workshop use.
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format), but original manuals used durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.
Manual Scope:
Extremely comprehensive, designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P-code), 3.9L Magnum V6 (J-code)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 230-235 hp @ 4500-4800 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approximately 300-305 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 175-180 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L V6 Torque:
Approximately 230-235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECM:
Various Chrysler Powertrain Control Modules (PCMs) depending on engine and year.
V8 Configuration:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC, 16-valve)
V6 Configuration:
3.9L Magnum V6 (OHV, 12-valve)
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE for V6, 45RFE for V8)
Optional Transmissions:
None for 2000 model year, automatic was standard across the board.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 45RFE; ATF+3 (MS-9602) for 42RE. Manual specifies checking specific part numbers for compatibility.
Drivetrain Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard, available Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with NV244 transfer case.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 116.7 inches
Length:
Approximately 193.1 inches
Width:
Approximately 72.1 inches
Height:
Approximately 67.7 inches
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (with optional third-row seat)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 87.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 41.2 cubic feet
Curb Weight V6:
Approximately 4,350 lbs
Curb Weight V8:
Approximately 4,500-4,650 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,300 lbs (with appropriate V8 engine and towing package)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-star
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; available side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles, or as per severe/normal driving conditions outlined in the manual. Refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, depending on coolant type.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (likely platinum or iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (likely platinum or iridium plugs)
Engine Oil Spec V8:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified) - refer to manual for exact Chrysler spec (e.g., MS-6395).
Engine Oil Spec V6:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified) - refer to manual for exact Chrysler spec (e.g., MS-6395).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific transfer case fluid (e.g., NV244 requires specific Mopar fluid or equivalent).
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, depending on differential type (G8.25 or Dana 44HD). Check manual for specific axle fluid requirements.
Common Problems V8:
Plenum gasket leaks (intake manifold), oil filter housing leaks, some reports of crankshaft position sensor issues, potential for head gasket failure on early 4.7L engines (though less common by 2000).
Common Problems V6:
Less prone to the specific V8 issues, but general maintenance items like ignition coils, spark plugs, and suspension wear apply.
Transmission Issues:
Overheating can be an issue, especially with towing. Checking transmission fluid levels and condition regularly is crucial. Some valve body issues reported in higher mileage units.
Electrical Issues:
Body control module (BCM) issues, power window regulators, and occasional instrument cluster problems.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and powerful vehicles, including trucks and SUVs, often associated with performance and utility.
Durango Generation:
2000 marks the first year of the second generation (DN) Durango, which featured a significant redesign, new engines, and updated chassis components compared to the first generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
Newark, Delaware, USA (for this generation)
Production Years:
1998-2003 (first generation), 2004-2009 (second generation - note: 2000 is first year of *this generation*)
