Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma (though later introduced)
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust chassis, available V8 engines (though less common in early models), good towing capacity for its class.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners with factory-level repair knowledge, reducing reliance on costly dealership service and enabling proactive maintenance.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download, providing immediate access to repair information.
Primary Coverage:
Repair and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific factory publication, typically 1000+ pages for a complete set.
Type:
Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
All gasoline engine options
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmissions
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Systems
Brakes:
Hydraulic Brake System, ABS (if equipped)
Suspension:
Front Independent Suspension, Rear Leaf Spring Suspension
Steering:
Power Steering System
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories
Body And Chassis:
Frame, Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Bumpers, Interior Trim
Climate Control:
HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Lines
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Service, Suspension Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Explanations (if applicable)
Disassembly And Assembly:
Component Removal and Installation Procedures
Cleaning And Reinstalling:
Component Cleaning and Reassembly Guidelines
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Experienced DIY Mechanics
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.5L (150 cu in) I4
Engine 1 Description:
H.O. 4-Cylinder, MPI (Multi-Point Fuel Injection)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.9L (238 cu in) V6
Engine 2 Description:
Magnum V6, MPI
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 215 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
5.2L (318 cu in) V8
Engine 3 Description:
Magnum V8, MPI
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 280 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
Proprietary Chrysler ECU (details covered in manual)
Transmission 1:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 360 for V8, NV1500/NV3500 for V6/I4)
Transmission 2:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission (A500/A518)
Transmission 3:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (42RH for V6/I4, 46RH for V8)
Overdrive:
Available on 4-speed automatic transmissions
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent)
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific ratings for 1993 may be limited; refer to manual for any available crashworthiness data.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional on front for 4WD models.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point front seat belts
Airbags:
No driver or passenger airbags offered in 1993.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check fluid condition every 15,000 miles, change as needed or every 30,000-50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific intervals).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; consult manual for specific mileage recommendations (e.g., 30,000 - 60,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and capacity (e.g., 5 quarts for V6/V8, 4.5 quarts for I4) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's long-life antifreeze or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol based, green color).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks, instrument cluster issues, catalytic converter failure, early transmission bearing wear on some models, rust on body panels and frame.
Troubleshooting Focus Areas:
The manual provides detailed steps to diagnose and repair these common issues.
Dodge Truck Lineage:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and capable trucks, including the Ram series, which the Dakota complemented as a smaller option.
Generation 2 Introduction:
1993 marked the introduction of the second generation (YJ) Dakota, featuring a significantly updated exterior and interior design, and introduction of the Magnum V6 and V8 engines.
Manufacturing Sites:
Wartrace, Tennessee, USA (primary)
