🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1990

Vehicle Type:

Compact Pickup Truck

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Dakota was positioned in the compact to mid-size pickup truck segment, offering a blend of utility, capability, and relatively compact dimensions compared to full-size trucks of its era. It aimed to capture buyers who needed more than a compact but less than a full-size rig.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Hardbody. The Dakota often differentiated itself with available V8 engines (a rarity in the compact segment at the time) and robust styling.

Distinctive Attributes:

Availability of V8 engines, distinctive Ram-inspired styling, solid body-on-frame construction, and a reputation for durability.

📋 Manual Details

Model Coverage:

All Dodge Dakota 1990 models, including all engine, transmission, and trim variations.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete coverage of all engine variants, including V6 and V8 gasoline engines, with detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and component testing.

Transmission:

In-depth coverage of both manual and automatic transmission systems, including removal, installation, internal component overhaul, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Detailed information on front-wheel drive (where applicable, though Dakota is RWD/4WD), rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive systems, differentials, axles, and driveshafts.

Brakes:

Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic brake systems, including front and rear disc/drum configurations, ABS (if equipped), master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, and brake lines.

Suspension:

Detailed specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension components, including independent front suspension, leaf springs, shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, and steering linkages.

Steering:

Coverage of power steering systems, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, and related components.

Electrical:

Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging system, starter motor, ignition system, lighting, gauges, power accessories, and wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Detailed information on fuel delivery systems, including fuel pumps, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulators, and emissions control components.

Cooling System:

Coverage of the engine cooling system, including radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Information on exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and exhaust pipes.

Body And Frame:

Procedures for body panel alignment, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and basic frame inspection.

HVAC:

Service and troubleshooting for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Maintenance:

Detailed procedures for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and fluid checks.

Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostic charts and troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake repairs, and suspension work.

Diagnostics:

Guidance on using diagnostic tools and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable for the era.

Specifications:

Provision of all necessary torque specifications, clearances, and adjustment procedures.

Depth:

Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if created from scanned OCR, allowing quick access to specific topics.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4, 3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6, 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8.

3.9L V6 Performance:

Approx. 125-135 horsepower, 200-220 lb-ft torque (figures varied slightly by year and tuning).

5.2L V8 Performance:

Approx. 170-180 horsepower, 280-300 lb-ft torque (figures varied slightly by year and tuning).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for V6 and V8 engines; Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for some earlier 2.5L models, but MPFI became standard for 1990. Specific fuel pressure requirements will be detailed in the manual.

ECM:

Engine Control Module (ECM) with diagnostic capabilities.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water). Specific Mopar coolant recommendations will be in the manual.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag or New Process) was often standard.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic (A500/A518) or 4-speed automatic (A500/A518 with overdrive) transmission from Chrysler.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for precise 1990-specific recommendation, though ATF+3 was common).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch for manual transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Typically 112 inches (standard cab) and 124 inches (club cab/long bed) for this generation.

Bed Lengths:

Available in 6-foot and 8-foot bed lengths.

Curb Weight:

Varied significantly based on configuration, ranging from approximately 3,200 lbs to 4,000 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,000-7,000 lbs for V8 models with appropriate towing packages. Specific ratings detailed in manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Ratings for 1990 vehicles are less comprehensive than modern standards. Expect standard 3-star front impact ratings, typically. Manual will detail any available crash test information.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional, typically on rear wheels only or all four for V8 models. Manual will detail system operation and service.

Seatbelts:

Standard three-point seatbelts for front occupants. Manual covers adjustment, operation, and replacement.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was typically NOT standard or available on 1990 models. Manual will confirm absence if applicable.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional upgrades included premium sound systems and CD players. Manual covers basic operation and fuse locations.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system. Manual will detail operation and troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Ports:

OBD-I diagnostic port, typically located under the dash or in the engine bay. Manual will detail diagnostic connector pinouts and diagnostic procedures.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide precise OEM recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions; manual transmissions may have longer intervals or be sealed for life (check manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type, but typically around 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual will specify plug type and gap.

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH rated, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature. Manual will specify exact Mopar recommended viscosity.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 10-13 quarts depending on engine size and configuration. Manual will provide exact capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the precise type.

Common Failures:

Potential issues include coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets or heater cores, distributor gear wear (on some engine variants), rust on body panels and frame, power steering pump leaks, and occasional issues with electronic sensors as the vehicle ages.

Diagnostic Tips:

The manual's troubleshooting section is crucial for diagnosing common issues like rough idle, starting problems, or electrical gremlins. Understanding vacuum hose routing is also key for carbureted or early fuel-injected models.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of truck manufacturing, dating back to the early 1930s. The Dakota was a significant entry into the then-growing compact/mid-size pickup market for Chrysler Corporation.

First Generation:

The first generation Dodge Dakota (AN) was introduced for the 1987 model year. The 1990 model represents the early production years of this successful platform.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primarily manufactured at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.

Key Changes 1990:

While specific major overhauls might not have occurred for 1990, minor refinements to engines, features, and trim levels were typical yearly updates. The manual will cover the specific configurations for this model year.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acknowledgments:

While specific 'awards' for the 1990 model year might be scarce in modern databases, the Dakota was recognized for its innovative V8 option in the compact truck class, making it a significant contender upon its introduction and continuing to be popular for its utility and value.