Vehicle Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Attributes:
Known for its comfortable ride for a pickup, a variety of engine options, and good towing/hauling capacity for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical guidance essential for DIY repairs and professional diagnostics of the Dodge Dakota.
Engine:
Complete engine repair and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.
Transmission:
Detailed repair and maintenance for both automatic and manual transmissions.
Brakes:
Coverage of hydraulic brake systems, ABS, and parking brake.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for the entire electrical system.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component repair, alignment specifications, and shock absorber replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, and linkage.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, and water pump service and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system components, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel pressure testing.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, muffler, and exhaust pipe replacement and repair.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core, and blower motor replacement.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, and chassis inspection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms and fault codes.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Methods for diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults using specialized tools.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Covers on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) and detailed troubleshooting trees.
Repair Scope:
Includes factory-level repair procedures for most vehicle systems.
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum I4, 3.9L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8
2.5L Magnum I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 120-122 hp
3.9L Magnum V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175-180 hp
4.7L Magnum V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 230-235 hp
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (available on I4 and V6 engines)
Optional Transmission V6:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE)
Optional Transmission V8:
5-Speed Automatic (545RFE)
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Wheelbase Short Bed:
Approx. 111.9 inches
Wheelbase Long Bed:
Approx. 124.7 inches
Bed Lengths:
Standard Bed (approx. 6.2 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs depending on configuration
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to approx. 1,500 lbs
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to approx. 6,500 lbs (with proper equipment and engine)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Generally rated Good or Acceptable (ratings vary by model year and specific test)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Generally rated Good or Acceptable (ratings vary by model year and specific test)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Available Audio Systems:
AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player options, upgraded speaker systems available.
Available Features:
Cruise control, power windows, power door locks, and available keyless entry.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio input, not modern smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Around 100,000 miles (depending on plug type; consult manual for exact intervals and part numbers).
Engine Oil Recommendation V6 V8:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic or conventional oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395 (consult manual for specific engine and temperature ranges).
Transmission Fluid Type 42Re:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Type 545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mopar 5-Year Coolant or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and exhaust system components can experience wear over time.
Engine Notable Concerns:
Some early 4.7L V8 models experienced issues like sludge buildup if oil changes were neglected, and potential valve spring issues.
Transmission Notable Concerns:
The 42RE automatic transmission, while robust, can develop shifting issues or torque converter problems with high mileage.
Electrical Notable Concerns:
Interior lighting, power window regulators, and instrument cluster issues have been reported.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early days of the automotive industry.
First Generation Dakota:
Launched in 1987 as Dodge's first compact pickup, it quickly gained popularity for offering V8 power in a smaller package.
Second Generation Dakota:
Introduced for the 1997 model year, this generation featured a significant redesign, including a larger, more muscular appearance and the introduction of the powerful 4.7L V8 engine.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan
Production Run:
Second Generation: 1997-2004 (though the manual covers select specific years within this range)
