Market Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Key Competitors 1989:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Pickup, Nissan Hardbody.
Vehicle Highlights:
Introduced as Dodge's first compact pickup truck, offering a balance of utility and car-like driving manners. Known for its distinctive styling and available V6 engines. The 1989 model year marked continued refinement of the first-generation platform.
Engine Options Covered:
2.5L I4 (AMC 150), 3.9L V6 (LA/Magnum)
Transmission Options Covered:
3-speed Automatic (A904/A999), 4-speed Automatic (A500/A518), 5-speed Manual (Getrag G360, NP4500 - though G360 more common)
Body Styles Covered:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Drivetrain Covered:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
Print (likely reproduction)
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, fuel system (carbureted and early EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case (4WD models), driveline components (driveshafts, U-joints, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front torsion bar, rear leaf spring), steering system (power steering), braking system (front disc, rear drum), wheel bearings, chassis lubrication.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks - if equipped), fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, window regulators, tailgate/tailgate operation, seat removal, exterior trim, paint and finish.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, engine performance diagnostics.
Repairs:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems. Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, steering gear repair, suspension component replacement.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Chrysler-specific special tools required for certain procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes and component replacement to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Digital Format:
PDF (likely, if digital reproduction)
Print Quality Reproduction:
High-resolution scan, legible text and diagrams.
Binding Type Physical:
Perfect bound or comb-bound (for reproductions).
Paper Type Physical:
Standard paper (for reproductions).
Base Engine:
2.5L I4 (AMC 150)
Optional Engine:
3.9L V6 (LA/Magnum series)
2.5L I4 Horsepower:
~100-110 hp (estimate)
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
~125-135 hp (estimate)
Fuel Delivery 2.5L:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Carbureted (depending on specific build).
Fuel Delivery 3.9L:
Throttle Body Injection (TBI) - later models introduced MPI.
Bore X Stroke 2.5L:
3.875 in x 3.1875 in (98.4 mm x 81.0 mm)
Bore X Stroke 3.9L:
3.66 in x 3.57 in (93.0 mm x 90.7 mm)
Compression Ratio 3.9L:
8.7:1 (typical)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag G360)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (A904/A999) or 4-speed automatic (A500/A518) with overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy in overdrive models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+2 or Dexron-II (verify specific transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (verify specific transmission)
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
109.6 inches
Wheelbase Club Cab:
124.9 inches
Bed Lengths:
Standard (approx. 6.5 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,000 - 3,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to ~6,000 lbs (with V6 and proper towing package - consult manual for specifics)
Payload Capacity:
Up to ~1,500-2,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Crash Test Data:
Limited specific public data available for this era, but generally considered competitive for its class at the time. Manual will detail structural integrity and safety component installation.
Active Safety Features Standard:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Limited electronic aids for this year.
Passive Safety Features:
Lap and shoulder belts, reinforced cab structure.
Recall Data Availability:
Manual may reference common safety recalls or issues to be aware of. External database checks recommended for specific VIN recalls.
Infotainment System Features:
Basic AM/FM radio (cassette player optional). Manual covers installation and troubleshooting of original radio components.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited. Optional rear-wheel ABS available on some models for 1989.
Connectivity Features:
None applicable in the modern sense. Manual covers basic electrical connections for factory options.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and transmission type - check manual).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Chrysler's recommended formula for the era.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Problems Potential:
Early TBI fuel delivery issues, distributor pickup coil failure, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V6), rear main seal leaks, heater core leaks, rust on body panels and frame rails, worn ball joints and tie rod ends, power steering pump whine.
Oil Filter Example Part Number:
Fram PH3600, Wix 51060 (verify for specific engine).
Air Filter Example Part Number:
Fram CA3550, Wix 42532 (verify for specific engine).
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The Dakota was a significant entry into the growing compact pickup market.
First Generation Introduction:
1987
1989 Updates:
Typically saw minor styling tweaks, equipment packaging changes, and potential updates to engine management or transmission calibration. The 3.9L V6 became more prevalent. Introduced optional anti-lock brakes (ABS) for the rear wheels on some models.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
First Gen Production Years:
1987-1996
