🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year Range: 1987-1996 Generation: First Generation (1987-1996) Codes Platform: X-Body (First Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: DIY mechanics, restoration enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup Key Features Manual Utility: Essential for sourcing correct replacement parts, understanding assembly sequences, and estimating repair costs Labor Hour Value: Provides objective data for fair labor charges and time management in a workshop setting 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Parts List Catalog Additional Coverage: Part numbers, prices, labor hours Target Markets: North America (USA, Canada, Mexico) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies (typically 300-600+ pages for comprehensive parts catalogs) Manual Type Type: Parts List Catalog Language Language: English Format Format: Printed/Digital (often available as PDF or physical book) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain components Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires Body Exterior: Body panels, doors, glass, trim, lighting, bumpers Body Interior: Seats, dashboard, trim panels, upholstery, HVAC components Electrical: Wiring harnesses, electrical components, accessories Comfort And Convenience: HVAC components, seats, interior trim, door mechanisms, wipers, windows Procedures Included Parts Identification: Detailed listing of all OEM part numbers and their associated descriptions Pricing Information: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) or dealer list price for parts Labor Estimation: Estimated labor hours for various repair and replacement procedures, crucial for shop quoting and DIY planning Part Supersessions: Information on superseded part numbers, critical for ordering correct replacements for older vehicles Dealer Ordering Information: Part numbers cross-referenced with dealer ordering systems for accurate procurement Technical Depth Depth: Component-level breakdown, specific part identification for all factory options and variations Diagrams Illustrations: Exploded views of assemblies, detailed diagrams of components to aid in identification and assembly Vin Decode Applicability: Information often organized to correlate with specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ranges for accurate parts selection based on factory options. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Typically PDF with searchable text for ease of use and printing Searchability: Text-searchable for quick location of specific parts or systems Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution illustrations and clear text for accurate part identification Binding Type Binding: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for printed versions, allowing pages to lay flat for easy reference Paper Type Paper: Durable paper stock, often coated, to withstand shop environments ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 2.2L (135 cu in) OHV Inline-4 (225 'Slant-4') Engine Option 2: 3.0L (181 cu in) OHV V6 (3.0 '3000') Engine Option 3: 3.9L (238 cu in) OHV V6 (3.9 '3.9L') Engine Option 4: 5.2L (318 cu in) OHV V8 (318 Magnum V8 - 1998-2003, not this gen but often confused, clarifying for the period it's up to 1996) Engine Option 5: 5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 (Introduced 1998, relevant for continuity and common DIY swaps into earlier models) Engine Option 6: 2.5L (150 cu in) Turbocharged Inline-4 (Optional on some earlier models, less common) Performance Typical Horsepower Range: Approx. 100-125 hp (4-cyl), 125-140 hp (3.0 V6), 170-177 hp (3.9 V6) Typical Torque Range: Approx. 130-150 lb-ft (4-cyl), 160-175 lb-ft (3.0 V6), 215-230 lb-ft (3.9 V6) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for most variants, Carbureted for early 4-cylinder models 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Option 1: 4-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Option 2: 3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A904) Transmission Option 3: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A500/42RH/44RE for later models/V6s) Features Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Options: 112.0 inches (Standard Cab), 124.0 inches (Club Cab) Bed Length Options: 6.0 feet, 7.5 feet Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3,000 - 4,000 lbs (depending on configuration) Towing Capacity: Varies significantly by engine and configuration, up to ~6,500 lbs for V8 models 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Limited data available for this era; likely performed adequately for its time, but not comparable to modern standards Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes; optional rear ABS on some later models Passive Features Restraints: Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts in front), no airbags standard in early models 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player on later models; basic speaker configurations Driver Assistance ABS: Rear Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option on later models, primarily for rear wheels Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (vehicle predates widespread integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months (check owner's manual for specific engine/oil type) Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs, filters typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on component quality and engine Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (check manual for automatic vs. manual) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH or higher, viscosity...