🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

First Generation

Body Style:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Production Years Covered:

1987-1996

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, and owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma (later years).

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, authoritative repair information to maintain and restore Dodge Dakota vehicles across multiple model years.

Historical Significance:

The Dakota was a significant entry for Dodge, bridging the gap between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size offerings.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components for all covered variants.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system, charging system, starting system, sensors, actuators, and ECU diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for all manual transmissions offered during the production run.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for all automatic transmissions offered during the production run, including hydraulic and electronic controls.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, and four-wheel-drive system service.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, and steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic components, ABS system diagnostics and repair (if applicable).

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, alignment procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and evaporative emission control system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan operation, and heater core service.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and hangers.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, and climate control components.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door hardware, latches, hinges, frame straightening (if applicable).

Electrical System General:

Lighting systems, interior electronics, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, and related wiring harnesses.

Dashboard And Instruments:

Instrument cluster removal and repair, gauge diagnostics, warning lights.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations and wire routing.

Routine Maintenance:

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

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex mechanical and electrical issues.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for the complete overhaul and rebuilding of major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Ball joint, tie rod end, control arm, and strut/shock absorber replacement.

Engine Timing Adjustment:

Timing belt/chain replacement and adjustment procedures.

Fuel Injector Service:

Removal, cleaning, testing, and installation of fuel injectors.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.

Body Panel Repair:

Procedures for dent repair, panel replacement, and rust mitigation.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Headlight bulb replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, sensor replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and diagnostic trees.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures often requires a basic OBD-I scan tool for earlier models and potentially OBD-II for very late 1996 models, though the focus is likely on analog diagnostics and test procedures.

Completeness:

Comprehensive coverage of all service, repair, maintenance, diagnostic, and troubleshooting procedures for the specified model years.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Download (typically PDF)

Searchability:

Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Designed to be printable, allowing for easy use in a workshop environment.

Quality:

High-resolution scans or digital originals ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1987-1991:

2.2L (135 ci) I4, 2.5L (150 ci) I4, 3.0L (181 ci) V6

Engine Options 1992-1996:

2.5L (150 ci) I4, 3.9L (239 ci) V6, 5.2L (318 ci) V8

Power Output Range:

Approximately 100 hp to 230 hp, depending on engine and year.

Torque Output Range:

Approximately 120 lb-ft to 300 lb-ft, depending on engine and year.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most variants, earlier models may have carburetor options or early EFI systems.

Common Engine Codes:

Examples may include: A507 (3.9L V6), 5.2L V8.

Engine 3 9L V6 Specs:

Approx. 170-175 hp, 225-230 lb-ft torque. Known as the 'Magnum' V6.

Engine 5 2L V8 Specs:

Approx. 220-230 hp, 295-300 lb-ft torque. Known as the 'Magnum' 5.2L V8.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed Getrag) were often standard on base models.

Optional Transmission:

Automatic transmissions (e.g., A500, A518, A500/A518 4-speed overdrive)

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and Four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations available.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Regular Cab: 112 inches; Extended/Club Cab: 124 inches.

Bed Length Options:

Approximately 6.5 ft (short bed) and 8 ft (long bed).

Curb Weight Range:

Varies significantly based on engine, cab configuration, and drivetrain, typically from 3,000 to 4,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Information on NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the specific years covered, if available.

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes standard, rear drum brakes. ABS available on some later models.

Restraints:

Seat belts, driver-side airbag (introduced later in the generation).

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Base AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, CD player (later years). Speaker configurations vary by trim.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available and more common on later models, particularly on 4WD variants and higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specifics.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, and as per manual for manual transmissions.

Coolant Flush:

Generally every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for most gasoline engines. Refer to manual for exact specifications and capacities.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (later models), consult manual for exact specification (e.g., Mopar ATF+3).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar OAT or HOAT coolant recommended.

Common Problems:

Rocker arm noise in some Magnum V8s, intake manifold gasket leaks, rust in wheel wells and rocker panels, radiator leaks, power steering pump failures, automatic transmission solenoid issues.

Electrical Issues:

Intermittent electrical gremlins, failure of instrument cluster components, wiring harness chafing.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck History:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, with the Dakota slotting into a crucial segment for the brand.

First Generation Introduction:

Launched in 1986 for the 1987 model year, as a unibody construction in early years, later evolving to a more traditional body-on-frame design.

Major Updates 1987-1996:

Significant updates in 1991 including new exterior styling, improved interior, and the introduction of the V8 engine option. Further refinements through 1996.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While specific awards for this generation are less prominent than later models, it was generally well-received for its powertrain options and utility in its segment.