Positioning:
The 1995 Dodge Dakota AN represented Dodge's entry into the second generation of its compact pickup truck. This generation marked a significant redesign and was positioned as a capable, versatile, and stylish compact/mid-size pickup, competing with domestic rivals like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10, as well as Japanese offerings.
Competition:
Competed directly with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, and to a lesser extent, Nissan Hardbody and Toyota Tacoma. The Dakota often distinguished itself with its availability of larger V8 engines (though not in 1995), a more substantial feel, and often more aggressive styling.
Features:
The 1995 Dakota AN featured a more aerodynamic and rounded body style compared to its predecessor, improved interior comfort, and updated powertrain options. It offered various cab configurations (Regular Cab, Club Cab) and bed lengths, making it a versatile choice for work and personal use.
Covered Systems:
Engine (2.5L, 3.9L, 5.2L), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Electrical System, HVAC, Body and Interior, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications.
Included Procedures:
Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, diagnostic fault code interpretation, component testing, repair procedures for all major systems, specifications for adjustments, torque values, and clearances.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Format:
N/A (Printed Manual)
Quality:
High-quality printing with clear diagrams, schematics, and text as per original factory standards.
Binding:
Staple-bound or perfect-bound, designed for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper:
Durable, high-grade paper suitable for frequent use and exposure to shop environments.
Engine 2.5L:
2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4. Naturally aspirated, multi-point fuel injection. Known for its fuel efficiency and durability in this application. Often referred to as the 'Huffaker' engine.
Engine 3.9L:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6. Multi-port fuel injection. This engine provided a good balance of power and efficiency, offering more torque than the I4. Based on the venerable Magnum V8 architecture.
Engine 5.2L:
5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8. Multi-port fuel injection. This engine was a significant differentiator, offering V8 power in the compact/mid-size truck segment, which was rare. Known for strong torque output and reliability.
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approximately 123 hp @ 4800 rpm (est.)
Torque 2.5L:
Approximately 136 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (est.)
Horsepower 3.9L:
Approximately 175 hp @ 4800 rpm (est.)
Torque 3.9L:
Approximately 215 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (est.)
Horsepower 5.2L:
Approximately 200 hp @ 4400 rpm (est.)
Torque 5.2L:
Approximately 290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (est.)
Injection Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) across all engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for performance benefit with Magnum engines).
Standard Transmission:
For 2.5L: 5-speed manual (Getrag 360 or New Venture Gear NV1500).
Optional Transmission V6:
For 3.9L and 5.2L: 4-speed automatic (Chrysler A500/42RE).
Optional Transmission Manual:
For 3.9L: 5-speed manual (New Venture Gear NV3500).
Overdrive:
Automatic transmissions featured overdrive (4th gear) for improved fuel economy at highway speeds.
Transfer Case:
Available 4WD models featured a part-time, manually shifted transfer case (New Process NP231).
NHTSA Ratings:
Data for 1995 models may vary; typically rated as acceptable for frontal impacts for its era. Detailed specific ratings are often difficult to find for this vintage.
Braking System:
Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was typically optional, especially on rear-wheel-drive models and standard on 4WD.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers in Club Cab models.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM radio, optional cassette player and CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Dashboard:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel, engine temperature, oil pressure. Basic warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Optional on most trims.
Antilock Brakes:
Optional, referred to as ABS.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Auxiliary input for aftermarket stereos may be present.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Spec 2.5L:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most conditions (check manual for variations).
Engine Oil Spec 3.9L/5.2L:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check manual for variations, especially for V8).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec), or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 (specifics vary by transmission model, e.g., NV3500, Getrag 360).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a green color (Chrysler's conventional green coolant).
Common Problems:
Rattling from exhaust manifold heat shields, potential for rear main seal leaks on V8 engines, HVAC blend door actuator failures, occasional transmission electronic control module (TCM) issues in automatics, minor interior trim wear, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system on V6 and V8, requires occasional tune-ups (spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, wires).
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first domestically produced compact pickup, filling a gap in their lineup and aiming to offer a more car-like driving experience than larger trucks.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (AN) debuted for the 1997 model year, featuring a significant styling and platform redesign. The manual covers the *pre-redesign* 1995 model, which is the final year of the first generation, often referred to as the 'first generation facelift' or transitional model, sharing many components with the earlier models but with updated styling cues.
Manufacturing Location:
Warrren, Michigan, USA; also Saltillo, Mexico.
Model Years Covered By This Generation Design:
1987-1996 (with updates in 1991 and styling revisions leading up to the AN redesign).
