🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

First Generation (AN)

Product Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck (later models competed in mid-size segment)

Target Audience:

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

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Hilux/Tacoma.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides detailed, step-by-step instructions and critical technical data essential for maintaining and repairing the Dodge Dakota across its first generation.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but typical for full service manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed or Digital (PDF - requires confirmation)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of all gasoline engine options including 2.2L I4, 3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi), 3.9L V6 (LA) and 5.2L V8 (LA).

Transmission:

Comprehensive coverage of manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, and shift mechanisms.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4x4 (4WD) systems, including driveshafts, differentials, axles, and transfer cases.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems, anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped, hydraulic system, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front independent suspension (torsion bar or coil spring depending on configuration), rear solid axle with leaf springs, steering gear, power steering system.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, fuses, relays, and control modules.

Body Chassis:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, and basic chassis repair.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, and service.

Fuel Exhaust:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injection systems (EFI), exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain replacement.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid changes, seal replacement, clutch replacement, clutch system bleeding, internal transmission component repair.

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake line replacement, brake caliper/wheel cylinder service, bleeding the brake system.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm service, power steering pump and rack repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing components, diagnosing charging and starting system issues.

Body Repair:

Body panel alignment, rust repair basics, door mechanism adjustment, window glass replacement.

HVAC Troubleshooting:

Refrigerant system diagnosis and service (with appropriate safety precautions and tools), blower motor replacement, heater core service.

Fuel System Diagnostics:

Fuel pressure testing, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes diagnostic procedures, specifications, and repair instructions for nearly all components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

If digital (PDF), expect high-resolution scans or professionally formatted text, enabling clear viewing and printing of diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Likely a durable binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound with reinforced spine) if printed.

Paper Quality:

Typically printed on sturdy, coated paper to withstand grease and workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

2.2L (135 cu in) Chrysler Turbo I Inline-4

Base Engine Hp:

Approx. 110-145 hp (depending on turbocharging and year)

Optional Engine 1:

3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6

Optional Engine 1 Hp:

Approx. 143 hp

Optional Engine 2:

3.9L (239 cu in) Chrysler Magnum LA V6

Optional Engine 2 Hp:

Approx. 170-180 hp

Optional Engine 3:

5.2L (318 cu in) Chrysler Magnum LA V8

Optional Engine 3 Hp:

Approx. 190-200 hp

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (EFI) for most, including multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) on later V6/V8 engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Base Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission (e.g., A500/A518 for automatics, NV3500 for manuals)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A727) and later 4-speed automatic overdrive (e.g., A500/A518)

Transfer Case 4X4:

Manual or automatic engagement transfer case for 4WD models.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab).

Wheelbase Options:

Approx. 112.1 inches (Regular Cab) and 124.9 inches (Club Cab).

Bed Lengths:

Short bed (approx. 6 feet) and long bed (approx. 7.5 feet).

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly based on engine, cab, and drivetrain; typically ranging from 3,200 lbs to 4,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited comprehensive crash test data available for this era of pickup trucks. Owners should consult vehicle safety records from NHTSA for specific year data if available.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, particularly later years and higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard in the early 1990s, phased in gradually throughout the model run. Passenger airbag not typically available during this period.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, and later CD players. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was an available option on many trims.

Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features primarily focused on core vehicle operation and comfort.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on engine oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid:

Automatic transmission fluid change generally recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid inspection/change varies.

Coolant Change:

Antifreeze/coolant typically recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil:

API Service SG or SH, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate. Check manual for specific engine and temperature ranges.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Chrysler ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check for compatibility for the specific year) or equivalent. Capacity varies by transmission type (e.g., A500/A518). Manuals will specify Mopar manual transmission fluid or GL-4 gear oil.

Coolant:

Chrysler 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Engine 2.2L Turbo:

Turbocharger failure, head gasket issues, intake manifold gasket leaks.

Engine V6 Magnum:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, plenum gasket leaks, oil filter adapter leaks, distributor drive gear wear.

Transmission Auto:

Torque converter shudder, solenoid failures, transmission fluid leaks.

Suspension Steering:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; steering gear looseness.

Electrical:

Corrosion in wiring harnesses, faulty grounds, intermittent electrical issues, dashboard warning light malfunctions.

Body Frame:

Rust susceptibility, particularly in body panels, rocker panels, and frame components in areas with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge had a history of producing robust and capable trucks, establishing a reputation for power and utility.

Dakota Introduction:

The Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1987 model year as Chrysler's entry into the compact/mid-size pickup truck market, filling a gap between smaller imports and larger Dodge Ram pickups.

Mid Cycle Updates:

Received styling updates and powertrain enhancements, most notably the introduction of the Magnum V6 and V8 engines in the early 1990s, significantly improving performance.

Assembly Locations:

Primarily assembled in Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

While specific awards are not widely cited for this generation, the Dakota was generally well-received for its V8 engine option and comfortable ride compared to some competitors. It helped Chrysler re-establish a strong presence in the pickup truck market.