Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet owners, Dodge Dakota enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody
Manual Advantage:
Dealership-level technical information, comprehensive A-Z coverage, model-specific accuracy.
Vehicle Strength:
Known for its V8 engine option in a compact truck class, rear-wheel or available four-wheel drive, and rugged construction.
Overall Coverage:
All Models and All Repairs A-Z
Specificity:
Vehicle/Model Specific, Not Generic
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 Pages (estimated based on comprehensive coverage)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel, Engine Cooling, Engine Lubrication, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Emission Controls
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD), Driveshafts, Axles, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Audio System, Power Accessories (windows, locks), Body Control Modules, HVAC Controls
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Bumpers, Glass, Seating, Restraints (Airbags if applicable for later years)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and Filter Changes, Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacements
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics, Component Testing Procedures
Special Tools And Techniques:
Identification of required special tools, specific procedures for unique tasks
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring schematics.
Engine Options 1987-1996:
2.5L I4, 3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi-sourced), 3.9L V6 Magnum, 5.2L V8 Magnum
Engine Description 2.5L I4:
Fuel injected, inline four-cylinder. Common in base models.
Engine Description 3.9L V6 Magnum:
Pushrod V6, known for good torque. Became a popular mid-range option.
Engine Description 5.2L V8 Magnum:
Pushrod V8, a class leader for power and towing capability in its segment. Offered from 1992 onwards.
Typical Hp 2.5L I4:
~105-125 hp
Typical Hp 3.9L V6:
~170-190 hp
Typical Hp 5.2L V8:
~200-230 hp
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most engine options and model years covered.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
3-Speed Automatic Transmission (early models), 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (later models, e.g., 42RH, 44RE with Magnum engines)
4X4 System:
Available with a part-time 4WD system featuring a manual or electronic transfer case.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7.5 ft)
Curb Weight Range:
~3,000 - 4,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Varies significantly by engine and configuration, up to approximately 7,000 lbs for V8 models with proper towing packages.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific ratings for this era are often not as detailed or readily available as modern vehicles. Focus on component safety features.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often available on rear wheels or all four wheels on later models, especially with V8 engines.
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts. Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced during this generation (typically mid-to-late 1990s models).
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player became available on higher trims in later years. Basic speaker systems.
ABS Availability:
Available, primarily on rear wheels or four-wheel systems on later models.
Early Connectivity:
Minimal by modern standards. Limited to basic power accessories like windows and locks on higher trims. No integrated Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specs).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (copper, platinum). Interval often between 30,000 - 100,000 miles. Manual will specify.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Manual transmissions often have longer intervals or are lifetime filled (check manual).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on engine and climate. Manual is definitive.
Coolant Type:
Typically ethylene glycol-based, green color, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify Mopar coolant or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 for later models, earlier models might use ATF+2 or Dexron II/III equivalents. Manual is critical for correct type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system requirements. Manual will specify.
Engine Issues:
Lifter noise (3.9L V6), intake manifold gasket leaks (V8), oil filter adapter leaks (V8), occasional head gasket issues on older engines.
Transmission Issues:
Slipping in automatic transmissions, wear on manual transmission synchros, transfer case chain stretch on 4WD models.
Chassis Issues:
Rear main seal leaks, brake component wear, suspension bushing deterioration, rust on frame and body panels (especially in northern climates).
Electrical Issues:
Instrument cluster failures, power window motor failures, headlight switch issues, corroded grounds.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, with the Ram brand initially being part of Dodge. The Dakota filled a niche between smaller compact trucks and full-size Ram models.
First Generation Contrast:
The 1987-1996 models represent the first generation of the Dodge Dakota, designed to compete with established compact trucks. Key updates occurred throughout the production run.
Key Updates:
Introduction of the Magnum V6 and V8 engines in the early 1990s significantly boosted performance and towing capabilities. Styling updates and interior refinements also occurred.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
