Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Professional technicians, DIY mechanics, fleet maintenance managers
Key Competitors Period:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Manual Advantage:
Factory-level detail, often unavailable in aftermarket publications, crucial for accurate diagnostics and repairs
Content Focus:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures, diagnostic strategies, wiring schematics, and specifications
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system, cooling system, engine performance, emission controls, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case (4WD)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instruments and gauges, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, SRS (Airbag) system, body control modules
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seats, roof system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagram interpretation, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and repair procedures
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum L4
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 120-135 hp
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 145-155 lb-ft
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 175-180 hp
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 230-235 lb-ft
Engine 3 Displacement:
5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8
Engine 3 Configuration:
V8
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 230-235 hp
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
ECM:
Various Chrysler Powertrain Control Modules (PCMs)
Transmission 1 Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500 or similar)
Transmission 2 Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE, 44RE, 46RE depending on engine)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific weight varies by transmission)
Transfer Case 4Wd:
NV235, NV241HD (specific model depends on drivetrain)
Wheelbase Short Bed:
111.8 inches
Wheelbase Long Bed:
124.8 inches
Bed Length Short:
6.25 feet
Curb Weight Approx:
3,500 - 4,500 lbs (varies by configuration)
Max Payload Approx:
1,000 - 2,000 lbs (varies by configuration)
Max Towing Capacity Approx:
up to 6,500 lbs (varies by engine and axle ratio)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (typical for this era of pickup truck)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts (Club Cab)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper, platinum, or iridium)
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (verify with manual)
Common Issue 1:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially V8 models)
Common Issue 2:
Water pump leaks
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods)
Common Issue 4:
PCM failure or intermittent electrical issues
Common Issue 5:
Rust, particularly on frame rails, cab corners, and rocker panels
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Gen Intro:
The second generation (AN) Dakota was introduced for the 1997 model year, offering a larger size and more powerful V8 engine option compared to its predecessor.
Design Updates:
The 2000-2001 models received minor cosmetic updates and potentially powertrain refinements from the initial second-generation launch.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
