🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 1997 Vehicle Type: Compact Pickup Truck Codes Vin Code: 4th character indicates engine size (e.g., X for 5.2L V8) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact pickup truck segment, competing with vehicles like Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma. Competitive Analysis Competitive Strengths At Launch: Offered a V8 engine option, a segment differentiator, and a comfortable ride for its class. Key Features Pickup Configurations: Available in regular cab and club cab configurations, with short bed and long bed options. Dealership Quality: Provides exact information used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all repairs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models & All Repairs A-Z, Vehicle Specific Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed (presumed, given context of sales business) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, diagnosis Transmission Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., A500/42RE, NV3500), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped) Suspension Steering Suspension Steering Coverage: Front suspension (independent torsion bar or coil spring depending on configuration), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering gear, power steering Electrical Systems Electrical Coverage: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, instrument cluster, body wiring, power accessories, multiplex systems (if applicable) Body Chassis Body Chassis Coverage: Frame, body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components Hvac HVAC Coverage: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks/replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication Repair Procedures: Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, belts, hoses, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis/replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics for diagnosis Diagnostic Procedures: OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) code retrieval and interpretation, fuel system pressure testing, ignition timing adjustment, circuit testing Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs, including full component rebuilds and system diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Likely printed book (specific format depends on actual product) Print Quality Print Quality: Professional quality, designed for workshop use (high-resolution diagrams and text) Binding Type Binding Type: Durable binding suitable for frequent use (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound) Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, possibly coated paper to resist shop fluids and wear ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine: 2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4 Optional Engine 1: 3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6 Optional Engine 2: 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 Performance 2.5L I4 Horsepower: Approx. 122 hp 3.9L V6 Horsepower: Approx. 170 hp 5.2L V8 Horsepower: Approx. 220 hp 5.2L V8 Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel Injection Type: Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (check specific engine variant) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 360 for V8, NV3500 for V6/I4) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (A500/42RE) Features Transmission Fluid Spec: ATF+3 (for automatic transmissions) Manual Transmission Fluid Spec: GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (check specific manual for weight) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 111.9 inches (Standard Bed), 124.9 inches (Long Bed) Overall Length: 185.3 inches (Standard Bed), 197.3 inches (Long Bed) Cargo Bed Length: 6.5 feet (Standard Bed), 8.0 feet (Long Bed) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3400-4100 lbs (varies by engine, cab, drivetrain) Towing Capacity: Up to 6,900 lbs (with appropriate engine and equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact Rating: Not explicitly rated for all configurations; typical for trucks of this era. Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels or all wheels depending on configuration. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag standard. Seatbelts: Three-point front seat belts with shoulder belt adjusters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on most trims. Towing Features: Optional trailer tow packages available, including wiring harnesses and potentially transmission coolers. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics). Tune Up Interval: Spark plug replacement recommended every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum). Coolant Flush Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (with filter, varies by engine) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Chrysler/Mopar green coolant recommended) Power Steering Fluid Type: ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, idler arms, water pump, rear main seal leaks (especially on V8). Transmission Issues: Potential for...