🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

Second Generation (AN)

Applicable Years:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

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

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Blazer, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and diagnostic information, empowering users to perform complex tasks and accurately troubleshoot issues, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

Vehicle Strengths:

Known for its comfortable ride, good towing capacity for its class, and versatile engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, typical for full factory manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine control module (ECM/PCM) diagnostics and repair

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (NV3500), Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE, 46RE) - removal, installation, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications

Drivetrain Systems:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, U-joints, differentials, four-wheel-drive system (if applicable)

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (independent short- and long-arm), rear suspension (leaf spring solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkages, tie rods

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic system, bleeding procedures

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations

Body Systems:

Body construction, exterior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), body control module (BCM) diagnostics

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring schematics for diagnosis

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, starter/alternator replacement, body panel repair

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, identification of failure points

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems, including component identification and circuit pathways

Specifications And Measurements:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, component dimensions

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes factory diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - universally compatible with computers, tablets, and smartphones. Searchable text functionality is typically included in factory PDFs.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum 4-Cylinder

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline-4

Engine 1 Power Hp:

Approx. 120 hp @ 5,200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.9L (238 cu in) Magnum V6

Engine 2 Configuration:

V6

Engine 2 Power Hp:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4,800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 3 Displacement:

4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8

Engine 3 Configuration:

V8 (SOHC)

Engine 3 Power Hp:

Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4,800-5,000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 295-300 lb-ft @ 3,200-3,600 rpm

Engine 3 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Cooling System:

Pressurized coolant system, belt-driven fan or electric fan depending on engine and configuration

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

5-speed Manual (NV3500)

Transmission 2 Type:

4-speed Automatic (42RE - for 3.9L V6)

Transmission 3 Type:

4-speed Automatic (45RFE - for 4.7L V8, introduced later in this generation)

Transmission 4 Type:

4-speed Automatic (46RE - for 4.7L V8)

Transfer Case:

Available 2WD and 4WD (part-time 4WD system, often with electronic engagement for later models)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Standard:

111.7 inches (2837 mm)

Wheelbase Extended:

124.6 inches (3165 mm) (for Quad Cab models)

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., approx. 190-207 inches)

Bed Length:

6.0 ft (short bed) or 7.5 ft (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,600 - 4,400 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 5,200 - 5,600 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 6,700 lbs (with appropriate engine and towing package)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,100 - 1,700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific rating may vary by model year)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles of the era, specific rating may vary by model year)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some base trims

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, rear seatbelts (lap and shoulder)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, 4 or 6 speaker systems

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Towing Features:

Optional trailer tow package including wiring harness and hitch receiver

Accessory Power:

12V power outlets

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (check manual for specific engine/oil type)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years (depending on coolant type)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, 50,000-100,000 miles for manual (check manual)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles for conventional/platinum, longer for iridium (refer to specific engine)

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Certified, check owner's manual for exact specification)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Varies by engine: 2.5L I4 approx. 5 quarts, 3.9L V6 approx. 5 quarts, 4.7L V8 approx. 6 quarts

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+4 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Mopar specific OAT or HOAT, check manual)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems 1:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 4.7L V8), radiator leaks, minor oil leaks, spark plug blow-out on 4.7L V8 (from improper installation/thread damage)

Common Problems 2:

Transmission issues (hard shifts, solenoid failures on automatics), U-joint wear on driveshafts, exhaust manifold cracks on V8

Common Problems 3:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), power steering pump leaks, rust in rocker panels and wheel wells

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, from the Power Wagon to the Ram series. The Dakota aimed to capture the compact/mid-size truck market with a blend of car-like comfort and truck utility.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (AN platform) debuted for the 1997 model year and received updates leading into the 2000 model year, including the introduction of the powerful 4.7L V8 engine for 2000.

Cab Configurations:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab with rear-opening doors), Quad Cab (four full doors, introduced for 2000 model year).

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The Dodge Dakota was generally well-received for its performance and comfort, often considered a strong contender in the compact/mid-size truck segment during its production run. Specific awards may vary by model year and publication.