Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Positioning:
Dodge's entry into the compact truck segment, offering a balance of utility and maneuverability. Competed with Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Toyota Hilux.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Hilux, Nissan Hardbody
Unique Selling Points:
Bold styling, powerful optional V6 engines for its class, rear-wheel drive and 4x4 options, and a relatively comfortable ride.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, small business owners, individuals seeking a versatile and capable pickup truck.
Covered Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control Systems
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD models), Driveshafts, Axles, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, Parking), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Ignition System, Fuel Injection Control, Body Control Modules, Power Accessories, Audio System, Cruise Control, Antilock Braking System (ABS) (if equipped)
Body:
Body Construction, Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Glass and Seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Belt Inspections and Replacements, Spark Plug Service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics for Diagnosis, Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Repair
Installation:
Component Installation (e.g., aftermarket accessories with OEM integration considerations), Engine/Transmission Swaps (general principles)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Base Engine:
2.2L (135 cu in) Slant-4 OHV
Base Engine Power:
Approx. 96 hp @ 4800 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
Approx. 129 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Optional Engine 1:
2.5L (150 cu in) Slant-4 OHV
Optional Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 109 hp @ 4800 rpm
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 139 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Optional Engine 2:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6 OHV
Optional Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 125-170 hp @ 4000-4400 rpm (varying by year)
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 180-220 lb-ft @ 2000-2400 rpm (varying by year)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for 2.5L and 3.9L V6; Carbureted (early models) or EFI for 2.2L
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for most engines)
Engine Codes Base:
2.2L: EBY
Engine Codes Optional 1:
2.5L: ESA, ESB
Engine Codes Optional 2:
3.9L V6: EBE, EBF, EBJ, EBK
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission 1:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A904)
Optional Transmission 2:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A500/42RH) (introduced later in the generation, typically with V6 engines)
4X4 Transfer Case:
Manual or Electronic Shift Transfer Case (New Process NP231/233 or similar)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Standard gear oil (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III depending on year and specific transmission model)
Wheelbase Standard:
109.7 inches
Wheelbase Long:
117.7 inches
Bed Lengths:
6 ft (standard), 8 ft (long wheelbase)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Payload Capacity Range:
Approx. 1,000 - 2,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Range:
Approx. 2,000 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific test; generally mixed ratings for this era. Specific details would require individual year analysis.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels, and later on all four wheels on some models.
Brake System Type:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums. Rear-wheel ABS only on certain models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard in later years of this generation (e.g., 1994 onwards).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for front occupants, two-point lap belts for rear (if equipped with rear bench).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player (later models), manual or power antenna. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control system available on most models.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional on some), fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure, voltmeter. Warning lamps for various systems.
OBD Support:
OBD-I diagnostic system, with specific diagnostic connectors and procedures detailed in the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific intervals based on engine and oil specification.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on operating environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., conventional vs. platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years, using the specified coolant type.
Engine Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service classification. Typically API SJ or higher.
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), typically green ethylene glycol type for this era.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified) hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust system (rust), brake components, U-joints (on 4WD models).
Engine Specific Notes:
2.2L/2.5L: Head gasket issues can occur with age and overheating. 3.9L V6: Generally robust, but can develop oil leaks and intake manifold gasket leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation, intermittent electrical connections, starter motor issues, alternator failures.
Transmission Notes:
Automatic transmissions can experience wear in valve bodies and torque converters. Manual transmissions are generally durable but clutch wear is expected.
Dodge Truck Lineage:
Dodge had a long history of pickup trucks, but the Dakota was its first foray into the compact/mid-size segment as a dedicated modern design.
First Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 1987 model year, replacing the Dodge Ram 50 (rebadged Mitsubishi Mighty Max).
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Received a significant facelift for the 1991 model year, with updated exterior styling, interior revisions, and powertrain enhancements.
Powertrain Updates:
Introduction of the 3.9L Magnum V6 engine in 1992 provided a significant power boost over earlier V6 offerings.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
Production Span:
1986-1996 (for the first generation)
Industry Awards:
While specific 'awards' are less common for this generation, the Dakota was recognized for its innovative V6 engine options in the compact truck class at its introduction.
Consumer Reports Reputation:
Consumer Reports evaluations for this era often cited strong performance for the V6 engines but noted average reliability compared to some Japanese competitors.
