Market Segment:
Compact pickup truck segment, competing with vehicles like Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma.
Competitive Strengths At Launch:
Offered a V8 engine option, a segment differentiator, and a comfortable ride for its class.
Pickup Configurations:
Available in regular cab and club cab configurations, with short bed and long bed options.
Dealership Quality:
Provides exact information used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all repairs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, diagnosis
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., A500/42RE, NV3500), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped)
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Front suspension (independent torsion bar or coil spring depending on configuration), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering gear, power steering
Electrical Coverage:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, instrument cluster, body wiring, power accessories, multiplex systems (if applicable)
Body Chassis Coverage:
Frame, body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components
HVAC Coverage:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks/replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, belts, hoses, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics for diagnosis
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) code retrieval and interpretation, fuel system pressure testing, ignition timing adjustment, circuit testing
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs, including full component rebuilds and system diagnostics.
File Format:
Likely printed book (specific format depends on actual product)
Print Quality:
Professional quality, designed for workshop use (high-resolution diagrams and text)
Binding Type:
Durable binding suitable for frequent use (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound)
Paper Type:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist shop fluids and wear
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 360 for V8, NV3500 for V6/I4)
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (A500/42RE)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 (for automatic transmissions)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (check specific manual for weight)
Wheelbase:
111.9 inches (Standard Bed), 124.9 inches (Long Bed)
Overall Length:
185.3 inches (Standard Bed), 197.3 inches (Long Bed)
Bed Length:
6.5 feet (Standard Bed), 8.0 feet (Long Bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3400-4100 lbs (varies by engine, cab, drivetrain)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,900 lbs (with appropriate engine and equipment)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Not explicitly rated for all configurations; typical for trucks of this era.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels or all wheels depending on configuration.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with shoulder belt adjusters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement recommended every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (with filter, varies by engine)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Chrysler/Mopar green coolant recommended)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, idler arms, water pump, rear main seal leaks (especially on V8).
Transmission Issues:
Potential for torque converter shudder in automatics, clutch wear in manuals.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with instrument cluster, power window regulators, and door lock actuators.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, building on models like the Ram.
First Generation Start:
1998 (all-new second generation introduced)
Second Generation Debut:
The 1997 model year represents the final year of the first-generation Dakota, launched in 1997 as an all-new design.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
