Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops, Enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody
Unique Selling Points:
Strong V8 engine option (5.2L Magnum), robust chassis, available V6 and 4-cylinder engines, suitable for towing and work
Manual Advantage:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing these vehicles, saving on dealership service costs.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures
Estimated Page Count:
1500+ (estimated for comprehensive workshop manual)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Engine:
2.5L 4-Cylinder (AMC 150), 3.9L V6 (Magnum), 5.2L V8 (Magnum); Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, starting, charging
Transmission:
Manual Transmissions (A500, NV3500), Automatic Transmissions (42RH, 44RE); Service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension (Leaf Spring), Axles, Driveshafts, Differential, Hubs, Bearings
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes; Hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Power Steering System; Rack and pinion (likely for 4x2), steering gear (likely for 4x4), components, diagnosis
Electrical:
Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Gauges, Switches, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM - if applicable)
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, HVAC system, glass, bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication points, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, circuit testing procedures
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics)
Base Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches)
Base Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder (Overhead Valve - OHV)
Base Engine Horsepower:
~123 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
Base Engine Torque:
~170 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
V6 Engine Displacement:
3.9 Liters (239 cubic inches)
V6 Engine Configuration:
V6 (Overhead Valve - OHV) Magnum
V6 Engine Horsepower:
~170 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
V6 Engine Torque:
~220 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
V8 Engine Displacement:
5.2 Liters (318 cubic inches)
V8 Engine Configuration:
V8 (Overhead Valve - OHV) Magnum
V8 Engine Horsepower:
~230 hp @ 4800 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
V8 Engine Torque:
~295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (estimate for 1994 model)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 and V8, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 4-cylinder
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7.5 ft)
Curb Weight:
3400 - 4200 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
5300 - 6000 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era, consult manual for specific engine)
Engine Air Filter:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum, consult manual)
Transmission Fluid:
Change fluid and filter every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on usage (heavy duty vs. normal)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific engine and climate conditions)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) - typically a green color
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (verify with manual, may have used earlier formulations)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Common Problems 2 5L:
Head gasket leaks, piston ring wear, oil consumption
Common Problems 3 9L 5 2L Magnum:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially older models), oil filter adapter leaks, crankshaft position sensor failure, oil pressure sensor issues
Transmission Issues:
Overdrive unit failure in automatics, worn synchronizers in manuals
Suspension Wear:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, worn leaf spring bushings
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota was introduced to compete in the growing compact pickup segment.
First Generation Launch:
The first generation Dodge Dakota was launched for the 1987 model year.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 1994 model year represented a significant refresh for the Dakota, with updated styling, improved interiors, and the introduction of the Magnum engines.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan
