Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians, DIY enthusiasts, repair shop owners
Value Proposition:
Official, comprehensive repair information for accurate and efficient servicing
Competitor Alternatives:
Haynes, Chilton (often less detailed or factory-accurate)
Licensing:
Officially Licensed Product
Access Method:
Instant online download/access
Data Accuracy:
Factory-level accuracy and detail
General Coverage:
Full vehicle service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance
Engine Coverage:
3.9L V6, 5.2L V8
Transmission Coverage:
4-speed Automatic (A500/A518), 5-speed Manual (NV3500)
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Driveline
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Diagnostics
Body Coverage:
Body & Chassis Repair, Trim, Accessories
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 (software-based, dynamic)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (Digital Software)
Format:
Software (likely executable or interactive PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS), ignition coil testing, spark plug replacement
Transmission Automatic:
A500/A518: Overhaul, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, fluid cooler
Transmission Manual:
NV3500: Overhaul, clutch system, drive shafts
Suspension Front:
Independent Front Suspension (IFS), control arms, ball joints, struts, springs, wheel bearings
Suspension Rear:
Leaf spring suspension, shocks, axle housing
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column
Brakes Front:
Disc brakes, caliper, rotor, pads, brake lines
Brakes Rear:
Drum brakes (standard), parking brake system
Electrical Components:
Alternator, starter, battery, lighting, wipers, horn, instrument cluster
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls
Body And Trim:
Door panel removal, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, tailgate
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tire rotation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for all major systems, DTC interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation
Specifications And Measurements:
Torque values, clearances, pressures, alignment specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, color-coded electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for fasteners across all systems
Troubleshooting Charts:
Systematic troubleshooting trees for common faults
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls
Special Tool Identification:
Identification of required special service tools (SSTs)
Depth:
Comprehensive (factory level detail)
Scope:
Includes diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and maintenance
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - refer to manual for specifics.
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter with every oil change, air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles, fuel filter every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Issues:
Front end component wear (ball joints, tie rods), exhaust manifold leaks (V8), transmission issues (especially older automatics), potential for rust/corrosion on body panels.
Diagnostic Challenges:
Older electrical systems can be prone to sensor failures or wiring harness degradation.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, establishing a strong reputation in the commercial and personal vehicle markets.
First Generation Launch:
The Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year as a compact/mid-size pickup truck, designed to fill a gap between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size pickups.
1991 Model Year Updates:
The 1991 model year represented the latter half of the Dakota's first generation (1987-1996). Updates for this period included refinements in styling, interior comfort, and powertrain options, including the introduction of the popular Magnum V6 and V8 engines which significantly boosted performance.
Manufacturing Plant:
St. Louis, Missouri (and other Chrysler plants)