Market Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, authoritative information for maintaining and repairing the Dodge Dakota across multiple model years, enabling cost-effective ownership.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (A500, NV3500), Automatic transmission (A518, A500 SE), transfer case, driveline, axles, CV joints, driveshafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, audio system, power accessories, ignition switch, starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, fuse panel, relays.
Body Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), emissions control systems.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, A/C system servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tune-ups.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, steering rack service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, performance data, diagnostic parameters.
Diagnostics Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for engine performance, emissions, transmission, brakes, and electrical systems, including wiring diagrams for troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including component disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly with specifications.
Engine Options:
2.5L (150 CID) I4, 3.9L (238 CID) V6, 5.2L (318 CID) V8 Magnum.
Engine Codes I4:
153 (2.5L)
Engine Codes V6:
239 (3.9L V6 OHV), 306 (3.9L V6 OHV Magnum)
Engine Codes V8:
318 (5.2L V8 Magnum OHV)
Horsepower 2.5L I4:
Approx. 125-130 hp
Torque 2.5L I4:
Approx. 135-140 lb-ft
Horsepower 3.9L V6:
Approx. 175-180 hp
Torque 3.9L V6:
Approx. 220-230 lb-ft
Horsepower 5.2L V8:
Approx. 230-235 hp
Torque 5.2L V8:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery 2.5L I4:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery 3.9L V6:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery 5.2L V8:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) - Magnum V8
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag/NV3500)
Optional Transmission Auto:
4-Speed Automatic (A500, A518)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control for automatic transmissions, overdrive gears.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent (refer to specific manual for exact type and capacity)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to specific manual for exact type and capacity)
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
111.9 inches
Wheelbase Club Cab:
124.9 inches
Bed Lengths:
6.1 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (optional)
Curb Weight Range:
3,500 - 4,500 lbs (approx., varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,000 - 6,000 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not rated for this specific generation in the way modern vehicles are, but general safety considerations apply.
IIHS Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era of pickup trucks; consult specific safety resources.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later V8 models (rear-wheel ABS typically).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models, passenger airbag optional on some.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear occupants in Club Cab.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 24,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (cold) or 10W-30 (normal operating temps). Refer to manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L V6:
Approx. 5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 5.2L V8:
Approx. 5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green)
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, rear main seal leaks (especially on V8), transmission cooler lines.
Electrical Quirks:
Dashboard gauge issues, power window motor failures, intermittent wiper problems.
Engine Specific Issues:
3.9L V6: Lifter tick, oil leaks. 5.2L V8: Oil pump issues, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, including the Ram series.
Second Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 1997 model year, but this manual covers the *end* of the first generation's run, which extended to 1996 and was very similar to the 1994-1996 models.
Previous Generation:
First generation (1987-1996), this manual specifically covers the later years of this generation which saw significant updates and engine introductions.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
