Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Niche:
Popular for its balance of utility, car-like ride, and affordability.
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody
Distinctive Attributes:
Unique 4-wheel independent front suspension for improved ride quality, available V8 engine in later years (though not for '94), strong dealer support.
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical and electrical), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Emission Control Systems
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD models), Driveshafts, Axles, Differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (Independent), Rear Suspension (Solid Axle), Steering System (Power Steering), Wheel Alignment
Brakes:
Front Brakes (Disc), Rear Brakes (Drum), Parking Brake System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) if equipped
Electrical Electronics:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Fuses, Relays, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Gauges, Wiper System, Horn, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)
Body Chassis:
Body Structure, Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Frame (if applicable), Rust Prevention
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for OBD-I or early OBD-II systems, component testing procedures
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair, body panel replacement
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures (e.g., starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump)
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Options:
2.5L (150 cu in) I4 Magnum, 3.9L (238 cu in) V6 Magnum
2.5L Horsepower:
Approx. 123 hp @ 4800 rpm (Varies slightly by specific model/configuration)
2.5L Torque:
Approx. 133 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Varies slightly)
3.9L Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp @ 4800 rpm (Varies slightly)
3.9L Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Varies slightly)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-port for V6, likely sequential for I4
ECU:
Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) - Likely OBD-I compliant with provisions for early OBD-II data link functionality.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically Mopar green or equivalent)
Oil Capacity 2.5L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Oil Capacity 3.9L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and approvals)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 360 or similar)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A500/42RH, A518/46RH for V6)
4Wd Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic (push-button) transfer case engagement
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, specific viscosity depends on ambient temperature)
Wheelbase Short Bed:
Approx. 112 inches (2845 mm)
Wheelbase Long Bed:
Approx. 122 inches (3099 mm)
Bed Lengths:
Standard (6 ft) and Long (7.5 ft)
Curb Weight Estimate:
3,200 - 3,800 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Payload Capacity Estimate:
1,000 - 1,700 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
2WD models rated as 'Not Rated', 4WD models rated as 'Acceptable' (based on typical ratings for this era; consult specific NHTSA reports for definitive data).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels or all four depending on configuration and options.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts in front, lap belts in rear (if equipped).
Frame Construction:
Body-on-frame construction.
Audio System:
AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Connectivity Features:
None (no integrated Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi)
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km). Manual: Inspect and change as needed or every 50,000 - 100,000 miles (80,000 - 160,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-4 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
I4: ~60,000 miles (96,000 km). V6: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum plugs.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or specific Mopar power steering fluid.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90). Limited-slip differentials may require friction modifier additive.
Common Problems:
Rocker arm wear (I4 engine), intake manifold gasket leaks (V6), radiator leaks, transmission issues (particularly automatic transmission cooler lines), brake component wear, rust on body panels and frame.
Electrical Issues:
Intermittent electrical problems, faulty dashboard lights, blower motor resistor failures.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and utilitarian trucks, with the Dakota aiming to bridge the gap between compact and full-size pickups.
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, introduced for the 1997 model year. The provided product name 'Dodge Dakota 1994' is likely an error or refers to a closely related predecessor/variant if the factory service manual was compiled around that time but covers later models. *Correction: Based on the 1994 year, this manual likely covers the FIRST generation Dakota (1987-1996). The second generation started in 1997. This manual would be for the 1987-1996 generation, specifically focusing on updates for 1994.*
First Gen Intro:
First generation launched in 1987, featuring a car-like ride with its front independent suspension.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
First Gen Production Years:
1987-1996
