🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Model Years Covered: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 Codes Platform: Second Generation (AN) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier. Key Features Unique Selling Points: Known for its distinctive styling, available V8 engine (later in the generation), and robust build quality for its class. The second generation saw significant updates over the first. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Complete factory service and repair coverage for all Dodge Dakota models produced between 1997 and 2000. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual of this era). Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Covered Systems: Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual & automatic), driveline, suspension, steering, brakes (ABS included), body electrical, body hardware, interior, climate control, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), emissions control. Procedures Included Repair Procedures: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, special tool requirements. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid changes to major component overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum L4, 3.9L (238 cu in) Magnum V6, 4.7L (285 cu in) Magnum V8 (introduced later). Performance Horsepower Torque L4: 2.5L L4: Approx. 120-125 hp, 145-150 lb-ft torque. Horsepower Torque V6: 3.9L V6: Approx. 175-180 hp, 230-235 lb-ft torque. Horsepower Torque V8: 4.7L V8: Approx. 230-235 hp, 295-300 lb-ft torque. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission. Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 42RE, 46RE). Features Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with transfer case. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: Short Bed (approx. 111.7 inches), Long Bed (approx. 124.7 inches). Body Styles: Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab). Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3,500 - 4,300 lbs depending on configuration. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating: 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for models with optional passenger airbag). Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional. Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Driver and passenger front airbags (passenger airbag often optional on earlier models). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio Systems: Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations. Driver Assistance Advanced Assistance: Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS for braking. Connectivity Connectivity Features: No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi. Connectivity was limited to basic radio and optional remote keyless entry. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine oil type and capacity). Transmission Fluid Change: Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific ATF/gear oil type). Coolant Flush: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: Refer to manual for SAE viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service category (e.g., API SJ or later) based on engine and climate. Typically 5 quarts for V6/V8, 4.5 quarts for L4. Transmission Fluid Specification Auto: ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) is common for 42RE/46RE transmissions. Brake Fluid Specification: DOT 3. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake pads/rotors, exhaust system components, radiator and hoses, heater core. Common Engine Issues: Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V6 engines), oil pressure sensor issues, eventual piston ring wear leading to oil consumption. Common Transmission Issues: Torque converter shudder, valve body issues, solenoid failures in automatic transmissions. Common Electrical Issues: Body control module (BCM) issues, power window/lock failures, instrument cluster problems, dashboard warning light illumination. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge Truck Legacy: Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, including the Ram series. The Dakota introduced a more refined and comfortable option in the compact/mid-size segment. Model Evolution Second Generation Launch: The second generation (AN body style) was introduced for the 1997 model year, featuring a complete redesign with more aerodynamic styling and a more car-like interior. It offered improved ride comfort and handling. Production Manufacturing Location: Newark, Delaware, USA. 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Automotive Journal Awards: While specific awards for the 1997-2000 Dakota are not prominently documented in major automotive publications, it was generally well-received in its class for its styling and available...