🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2001 Codes Vin Prefix: 1B7 Generation Generation Name: Second Generation (AN) Generation Years: 1997-2004 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Competitive Set: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier. Key Features Engine Options: Offered with a range of V6 and V8 engines, distinguishing it in its class. Cab Configurations: Available in Regular Cab and Quad Cab (extended cab with rear doors). Bed Lengths: Offered in standard and long bed configurations. Performance Variant: The R/T (Road/Track) performance trim featured the Magnum V8 engine. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive repair, service, maintenance, and diagnostics for the 2001 Dodge Dakota. Trim Levels Covered: All trim levels including SLT, Sport, and R/T. Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all 2001 Dakota engine options. Transmission: Complete coverage for both automatic and manual transmissions, including overhaul and adjustments. Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive (4WD) system, transfer case, axles, and driveshafts. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, and shock absorber replacement. Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, disc and drum brake component diagnosis and repair. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, and linkage. Electrical: Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems. HVAC: Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, and component replacement. Body: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, and structural repair. Emissions: Emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and evaporative emission (EVAP) system. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon drivability and electrical issues. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components. Diagnostics: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and explanations for specific symptoms. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level technical data, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters. Diagnostics Tools: Information on using diagnostic scan tools (e.g., DRBIII) and interpreting OBD-II codes. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity. Printable: Printable for convenient workshop use. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Base: 3.9L Magnum V6 (12V) Displacement Base: 3906 cc Horsepower Base: 175 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Base: 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine 1 Engine Code Optional 1: 5.2L Magnum V8 (16V) Displacement Optional 1: 5211 cc Horsepower Optional 1: 230 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque Optional 1: 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine 2 Engine Code Optional 2: 5.9L Magnum V8 (16V) - R/T Model Displacement Optional 2: 5899 cc Horsepower Optional 2: 245 hp @ 4000 rpm Torque Optional 2: 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Engine Management ECU Type: Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Optional 1 Transmission Type Optional 1: 4-Speed Automatic (42RE) Optional 2 Transmission Type Optional 2: 4-Speed Automatic (46RE) - With 5.2L and 5.9L V8 engines Features Transfer Case: NV235 (Part-time 4WD) or NV244 (Full-time 4WD) for 4x4 models Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec: ATF+4 (MS-9224 or equivalent) Manual Transmission Fluid Spec: MS-90328 or equivalent (SAE 75W-90 API GL-5) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Short Bed: 111.7 inches Wheelbase Long Bed: 124.7 inches Overall Length Short Bed: 196.9 inches Overall Length Long Bed: 210.0 inches Overall Width: 71.7 inches Overall Height: 66.1 inches Cargo Bed Length Standard: 71.7 inches Bed Length Long: 96.1 inches Weights Curb Weight 2Wd: Approximately 3700-4000 lbs Curb Weight 4Wd: Approximately 3900-4200 lbs Gvwr: Approximately 5100-5800 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Impact: Not rated (vehicles of this era often did not have standardized NHTSA ratings) IIHS Offset Crash Test: Acceptable (for some models) Active Features ABS: Standard on all models Traction Control: Optional on some models, especially V8 variants Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seatbelts: Three-point front and rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models. Connectivity OBD Ii: Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine monitoring. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specifics). Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (every 30,000 miles recommended). Spark Plugs: Replace every 100,000 miles (Long-Life Platinum or equivalent recommended). Transmission Fluid Change: Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on use. Coolant Flush: Every 50,000 miles or...
Brake component wear (rotors, pads) due to weight and duty cycle.
Common Issue 2:
Power steering system leaks (pump, hoses).
Common Issue 3:
Cooling system issues (thermostat, water pump leaks, radiator).
Common Issue 4:
Ball joint and tie rod end wear, especially on 4x4 models.
Common Issue 5:
Transmission solenoid issues in automatic transmissions (especially 42RE).
Common Issue 6:
Cracking dashboard plastic due to UV exposure/age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Model Evolution
First Generation Dakota:
Introduced in 1987 as a direct competitor to smaller Japanese pickups, offering a more powerful V8 option. The 2001 model is part of the second generation.
Production
Assembly Locations:
Newark, Delaware, USA; Warren, Michigan, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Pickup Truck Of The Year:
The Dakota platform has received various accolades throughout its generations, though specific awards for the 2001 model year are less prominent in readily available historical data.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation varied, with some years and powertrains performing better than others. The manual provides insights into potential weak points.