Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Niche:
Filled a gap in the Dodge lineup for a smaller, more fuel-efficient pickup than the full-size Ram, while offering V8 power not common in smaller trucks.
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-accurate information essential for maintaining and repairing the Dodge Dakota across its initial production run.
Model Years Covered:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Trim Levels Covered:
All available trim levels (e.g., Base, SE, SLT, Sport)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Full Factory)
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (RWD/4WD)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Accessories, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules (if applicable)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC System
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes, manifold components
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulator
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, symptom-based troubleshooting
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic data
Recalibration:
Engine control module (ECM) recalibration, sensor testing and replacement
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair guidance, door and window regulator repair
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic to advanced diagnostics, repair procedures, and complete unit overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using diagnostic tools and interpreting data for engine management systems of the era.
Searchable:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Capability:
Printable pages, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine 1:
2.2L Inline-4 (K-series)
Engine 2:
3.0L V6 (Colt/Mitsubishi 6G72)
Engine 3:
5.2L V8 (LA-series Magnum)
Hp 2.2L I4:
Approx. 100-110 hp
Hp 3.0L V6:
Approx. 130-140 hp
Hp 5.2L V8:
Approx. 170-180 hp
Fuel Delivery 2.2L I4:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) depending on year
Fuel Delivery 3.0L V6:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Delivery 5.2L V8:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) - Magnum
Displacement 2.2L I4:
2213 cc
Displacement 5.2L V8:
5.2L (318 ci)
Transmission 1:
4-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag/Chrysler A500/A518 variants)
Transmission 2:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (TorqueFlite A727)
Transmission 3:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (TorqueFlite A500/A518 variants)
Transfer Case 4Wd:
New Process NP208 or NP231 (depending on configuration)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7.5 ft)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 4,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Frame:
Body-on-frame construction
NHTSA Ratings:
Limited data available for this era, typically focused on frontal impact. Consult specific model year reports if available.
Braking System:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard); Optional Rear Disc on some performance variants
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard in later years of this generation (typically 1994+).
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs and air filter typically every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 (preferred), 10W-30, 10W-40 depending on temperature. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for later models), or equivalent Mopar specification.
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Common Problems 1:
Radiator leaks, water pump failures, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V8s), ball joint wear, rust on body panels.
Common Problems 2:
Ignition system issues (coil, distributor cap/rotor), starter motor failures, transmission solenoid issues on automatics.
Common Problems 3:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, A/C system leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Front ball joints and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge had a strong legacy in trucks, particularly with the Ram line, establishing a reputation for robustness.
Redesign Points:
Minor styling updates and powertrain improvements throughout the generation, with a notable facelift around 1991-1992.
Engine Updates:
Introduction of the 5.2L Magnum V8 in 1993 marked a significant performance upgrade.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
