🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota SLT

Year:

2001

Model Code:

AN (Second Generation Dakota)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet managers, and owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

Competitors 2001:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

Unique Selling Points:

V8 engine option (rare in its class at the time), robust construction, comfortable interior for its segment, available in 2WD and 4WD configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full coverage of all engine variants, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of internal components, cylinder heads, blocks, crankshafts, pistons, camshafts, valvetrain.

Engine Performance:

Detailed diagnostics and repair for fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging systems.

Transmission Manual:

Complete service and repair procedures for the Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch, gearbox, linkages, and driveline components.

Transmission Automatic:

Full overhaul and repair procedures for the 42RE and 45RFE 4-speed automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, internal components, and electronic controls.

Suspension:

Detailed service information for front independent suspension (torsion bar or coil spring depending on 2WD/4WD) and rear solid axle with leaf springs, including component replacement, alignment procedures, and specifications.

Steering:

Repair and adjustment of power steering system, steering gear, linkages, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Comprehensive coverage of front disc and rear drum brake systems (or optional rear disc), including hydraulic system bleeding, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, shoes, drums), parking brake adjustments, and ABS diagnostics.

Electrical System:

Extensive wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures, and repair instructions for lighting, starting, charging, ignition, fuel, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, power accessories, and trailer wiring.

Body Interior:

Procedures for interior trim removal and installation, seat adjustment and repair, dashboard components, door panels, headliner, and basic body panel adjustments.

Body Exterior:

Instructions for body panel removal and installation (fenders, doors, hood, tailgate), bumper repair, glass replacement, and door/window regulator service.

HVAC:

Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including refrigerant handling, component replacement, and airflow control.

Routine Maintenance:

Detailed steps for oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid level checks.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic charts and troubleshooting trees for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, water pumps, radiators, fuel pumps, brake calipers, and suspension parts.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other complex assemblies, including critical torque specifications and tolerances.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment to ensure proper tire wear and handling.

Frame And Body Alignment:

Procedures for checking and correcting frame and body alignment issues if necessary.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for powertrain control modules (PCM) and other electronic modules.

Repair Precision:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly instructions critical for ensuring proper function and longevity of repaired components.

Wiring Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed wiring diagrams covering all electrical systems, including component identification, wire colors, and connector pinouts.

Diagnostic Tools Usage:

Guidance on using common diagnostic tools and equipment, including multimeters, pressure gauges, and scan tools (if applicable for the era).

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, potentially searchable text with scanned pages.

Print Quality:

Professional, high-resolution images and diagrams. (Assumed for a factory service manual).

Binding Type:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use on a workbench. (Assumed for a printed manual).

Paper Type:

Durable, heavy-weight paper designed to withstand shop environment. (Assumed for a printed manual).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.5L MAG (4-cylinder)

Engine 1 Hp:

Approx. 122 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 139 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 2:

3.9L Magnum (V6)

Engine 2 Hp:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3:

4.7L Magnum (V8) - Introduced later in the generation, possibly not for 2001 SLT, but important for context.

Engine 3 Hp:

Approx. 230 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

PCM:

Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag)

Transmission 2:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE or 45RFE)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (verify specific Getrag requirements in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

111.9 inches

Wheelbase Long Bed:

124.9 inches

Overall Length:

Varies by bed length (approx. 189-202 inches)

Width:

Approx. 71.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 65.7-67.5 inches (depending on 2WD/4WD)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,500 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (with proper equipment and V8 engine)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2001 model)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001 model)

ABS:

Standard on all models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM cassette/CD player with optional premium sound systems. Radio and speaker system diagnostics and repair included.

ABS System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnostics and repair for wheel speed sensors, hydraulic control unit, and brake lines.

Trailer Wiring:

Standard trailer wiring provisions for common trailer lighting and brake systems. Wiring diagrams for trailer connections will be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions; refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type; platinum/iridium plugs offer longer life).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-5 years (using Mopar OAT coolant).

Engine Oil Capacity:

2.5L: 5.0 qts; 3.9L V6: 5.0 qts; 4.7L V8: 6.0 qts (all with filter change).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 for most conditions, 10W-30 or 10W-40 for higher temperatures (verify in manual).

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT compliant or equivalent.

Radiator Leaks:

Plastic end tanks can degrade over time, leading to leaks.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

Can occur in automatic transmissions due to valve body issues or solenoid problems. Refer to specific diagnostic procedures.

Ignition Coil Failure:

Coil packs can fail, leading to misfires, especially on V6/V8 engines.

Symptoms Of Worn Ball Joints:

Clunking noises, steering wander, uneven tire wear. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.

Oem Part Numbers:

Manual will contain specific OEM part numbers for most components, invaluable for ordering correct replacements.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, including the Ram series, establishing a reputation for durability.

First Generation Dakota:

The Dodge Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Chrysler's first compact pickup, positioning itself between smaller imports and the full-size Ram.

Second Generation Dakota 2001:

The 2001 model is part of the second generation (1997-2004), which featured a more aerodynamic design, a significantly stronger chassis, and the introduction of the optional V8 engine.

Assembly Location:

Various Chrysler Corporation/DaimlerChrysler plants, including Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year Nominee:

The Dakota has been a contender for MotorTrend's Truck of the Year in previous generations, indicating strong market reception for its capabilities.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varied reliability ratings over the years for the Dakota. This manual is essential for proactive maintenance to mitigate potential issues.