Market Niche:
Compact pickup truck segment, competing with models like Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Toyota Hilux/Tacoma.
Competitive Advantage:
Known for its comfortable ride, available V6 engines, and a blend of utility and car-like driving manners for its era.
Vehicle Highlights:
First generation Dakota introduced bold styling, available four-wheel drive, and a spacious cabin for a compact truck.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive for all factory-specified maintenance, diagnosis, repair, and adjustment procedures.
Page Count:
Approximately 1000+ pages (estimated based on typical factory service manuals of the era and coverage described)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Manual Focus:
Technician-focused, providing the necessary detail for professional repair and maintenance.
Format:
Print (Paperback or Hardcover)
File Format Details:
Printed paper pages; high-resolution scans for digital versions.
Print Quality:
Professionally printed with clear text and diagrams; original factory quality.
Binding Type:
Professional binding (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound, or section-sewn) for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control systems.
Powertrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, driveline (rear-wheel drive, possibly 4WD components).
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS if equipped).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, power distribution.
Body Systems:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, seats, glass, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).
Fuel Injection Details:
In-depth coverage of the MPI system, including fuel pump pressures, injector testing, sensor functions (MAP, TPS, O2, etc.).
Emission Controls:
Detailed explanations and diagrams for emissions control components such as catalytic converter, EGR, PCV systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic flowcharts, fault code identification and resolution.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments, component inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, assembly and disassembly of major systems.
Adjustment Procedures:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, throttle cable adjustment.
Engine Rebuild Guidelines:
Specifications for cylinder bore, piston clearance, bearing clearances, valve seating, and timing component replacement.
Brake System Overhaul:
Procedures for caliper and wheel cylinder replacement, brake pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, bleeding procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Extensive, covering detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), repair sequences, and schematics.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Detailed step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults.
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum Inline-4 (MPI), 3.9L Magnum V6 (MPI)
2.5L Engine Horsepower:
125 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimated)
3.9L Engine Horsepower:
178 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimated)
3.9L Engine Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
2.5L Engine Code:
2.5L (VIN G)
3.9L Engine Code:
3.9L V6 (VIN X)
Cooling Capacity:
Approx. 10-12 quarts (refer to manual for exact capacity by engine/radiator size)
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches (Standard Bed), 124.9 inches (Long Bed)
Overall Length:
Varies by bed length (approx. 179-192 inches for standard bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 4,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically 5,000-6,000 lbs
Bed Lengths:
6-foot bed, 8-foot bed
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not readily available for 1990 model year for this specific vehicle, but typical for trucks of the era.
Active Safety Features:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels only for some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Lap and shoulder belts, padded dashboard, energy-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 30,000 miles for conventional plugs (refer to manual for specific type and interval).
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate/load recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar coolant recommended.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust system components, intake manifold gaskets (3.9L V6).
Electrical Gremlins:
Potential issues with instrument cluster illumination, door lock actuators, and grounds over time.
Engine Performance Issues:
Spark plug fouling, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve issues, throttle body contamination leading to rough idle.
Transmission Quirks:
Torque converter shudder, hard shifting in automatic transmissions can sometimes be related to vacuum modulator or electronic control issues.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, starting with the Dodge Power Wagon.
First Generation Introduction:
The Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year, representing Chrysler's first entry into the compact pickup truck market in over a decade.
1990 Updates:
The 1990 model received minor styling tweaks and potential updates to engine management and option packages.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.