🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1998

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Dakota was a mid-size pickup truck that offered a balance of compact maneuverability and full-size capability, carving out a significant niche in the market. This manual reflects that comprehensive approach.

Competitors:

Competed with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, and Toyota Tacoma in the mid-size pickup segment.

Features:

The 1998 Dakota was known for its optional V8 engine, a segment exclusive, and its distinctive styling. This manual covers all configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All 1998 Dodge Dakota models and all repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Refer to product for exact count, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely comb-bound or perfect-bound)

Completeness Statement:

This is the definitive resource for technicians, providing comprehensive, vehicle-specific information for all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic procedures.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, diagnostics, component removal/installation

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (NV3500, Getrag 360), Automatic transmission (42RE, 44RE), clutch system, driveline, driveshaft, U-joints

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, troubleshooting

Suspension Steering:

Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear leaf spring suspension, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body controls, power accessories, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, frame diagnostics

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, pressures, fluid capacities, electrical parameters, alignment settings

Technical Data:

Detailed technical data, repair procedures, and diagrams for all factory-specified tasks

Engine Overhaul:

Complete procedures for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head work, crankshaft and camshaft servicing, and engine reassembly.

Transmission Rebuild:

Detailed steps for the repair and rebuilding of both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque converter, clutch pack, valve body, and gear train servicing.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, pin-out data for ECUs and sensors, circuit testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts for electrical issues.

Chassis Alignment:

Specific alignment specifications (caster, camber, toe) and procedures for front and rear suspension, including adjustment points.

Body Work:

Procedures for body panel removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, trim components, and basic collision repair considerations.

HVAC Service:

Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning systems, heater cores, blower motors, refrigerant handling, and climate control system components.

Depth:

Complete, in-depth coverage from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls; designed for professional technicians.

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions use of scan tools for OBD-II diagnostics, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and specialized Chrysler diagnostic equipment.

Special Tools:

Lists specific Chrysler/Mopar special tools required for certain repairs, such as bearing pullers, seal installers, and diagnostic adapters.

Component Rebuild:

Instructions for rebuilding or overhauling components like steering gears, brake calipers, master cylinders, and differential assemblies.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Print

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and legible text, as expected from OEM or reputable aftermarket publishers.

Binding Type:

Likely perfect-bound or comb-bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop use, potentially coated for resistance to grease and dirt.

Text Searchability:

As a printed manual, it relies on an index for navigation. If a digital version is produced from it, text searchability would be a key feature.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (150 cu. in.) OHV I4, 3.9L (239 cu. in.) OHV V6, 5.2L (318 cu. in.) OHV V8

3.9L V6 (Estimated):

Horsepower: ~175 hp @ 4800 rpm; Torque: ~230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.2L V8 (Estimated):

Horsepower: ~230 hp @ 4800 rpm; Torque: ~300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Codes:

Likely EKG (2.5L), YD (3.9L), YD (5.2L - often the same code for V6/V8 in some systems, or specific sub-codes)

2.5L I4 Engine Code:

Likely EKG

3.9L V6 Engine Code:

Likely YD

5.2L V8 Engine Code:

Likely YD (often shared with 3.9L, or specific sub-designations exist)

5.2L V8 Oil Capacity:

5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) depending on original fill; consult manual for specific. Typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (NV3500 or Getrag 360 for V8)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RE for V6, 44RE for V8)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+3 (for automatics), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manuals - consult manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Various options including 111.7 inches (Standard Bed) and 124.7 inches (Long Bed)

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (~6.5 ft), Long Bed (~8 ft)

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3,500 - 4,500 lbs depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio; up to ~7,000 lbs for properly equipped V8 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Information for 1998 models may be limited or unavailable from NHTSA. Consult specific safety databases for available data.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically optional or standard on higher trims/V8 models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard. Passenger airbag may be optional.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic analog gauge cluster.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily external diagnostics via OBD-II port for emissions and engine diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations and oil type (e.g., 5W-30 for V6/V8).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Check for leakage and condition, change as needed (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles). Consult manual for exact intervals and fluid type.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years. Consult manual for specific coolant type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on original specification. Consult manual.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid. Consult manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

75W-90 GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific to transmission type and manufacturer, e.g., Getrag or NV3500)

Transfer Case Fluid:

For 4x4 models, typically Dexron-III or ATF+3, consult manual for specific transfer case model.

Rear Axle Fluid:

80W-90 GL-5 gear oil for standard differentials, 75W-90 synthetic for limited-slip differentials (if equipped, requiring additive).

Common Issues:

Rocker arm wear (especially on 5.2L Magnum V8), front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), minor electrical gremlins, exhaust manifold leaks, transmission cooler line leaks.

Typical Repairs:

Water pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, clutch replacement (manual transmission), brake component servicing.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable pickup trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota represented an expansion into the growing mid-size market.

Second Generation:

The 1998 model year marks the second generation of the Dodge Dakota (1997-2004), which featured a significantly redesigned body and increased size compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

While specific awards for the 1998 model year might be scarce, the Dodge Dakota series generally received positive reception for its V8 option and rugged design in the mid-size pickup segment.