🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 1987 Generation Generation Identifier: First Generation (1987-1996) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Pickup Truck Distinction: One of the first compact pickup trucks introduced by an American manufacturer, competing with Japanese imports. Competitive Analysis Competitors 1987: Toyota Pickup, Nissan Hardbody, Mazda B-Series, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10. Key Features Initial Offering: Offered a blend of smaller size and payload capacity suitable for many consumer and light commercial needs, with American engineering and styling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All models and all repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely Printed (original factory publication). If offered as a digital product, likely PDF. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case (if applicable), rear axle. Chassis: Steering, suspension (front and rear), brakes (hydraulic, mechanical parking brake), wheels, tires. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, warning indicators, accessory circuits (radio, wipers, horn, etc.), body control modules (if applicable). Body: Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable for the era), electrical diagnostic procedures. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and adjustment. Specifications: Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, tolerances, electrical data, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including in-depth electrical system diagnostics and body repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (if digital version) Print Quality Printed Quality: High quality, professionally printed (original); Clear, legible scans with searchable text (digital). Binding Type Binding: Original: Coil-bound or hardbound. Digital: Accessible via PDF reader. Paper Type Paper: Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments (original). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 2.2L (135 cu in) Chrysler Slant-4 (2.2L K-Car engine variant) Performance Horsepower 2 2L: Approximately 96 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque 2 2L: Approximately 126 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm Horsepower 3 0L V6: Approximately 143 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque 3 0L V6: Approximately 168 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2: 3.0L (181 cu in) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 Fuel System Fuel Delivery 2 2L: Throttle Body Injection (TBI) Fuel Delivery 3 0L V6: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Engine Construction Block Material 2 2L: Cast Iron Head Material 2 2L: Aluminum Block Material 3 0L V6: Cast Iron Head Material 3 0L V6: Aluminum 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard: 4-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Optional: 3-speed Automatic Transmission (TorqueFlite A904 variant) Features Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approximately 109.6 inches Overall Length: Approximately 182.3 inches Overall Width: Approximately 66.2 inches Overall Height: Approximately 63.4 inches Cargo Bed Length Standard: Approximately 73.1 inches Bed Width Between Wheel Wells: Approximately 40.7 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: Approx. 2,700 - 3,100 lbs depending on configuration Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw: Typically around 4,500 - 5,000 lbs (Varies by configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings 1987: N/A (Modern rating systems were not in place; likely not crash tested extensively by current standards) Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Passive Features Seatbelts: Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (center/rear if applicable) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, dealer-installed options. Speakers typically basic. Driver Assistance ABS Availability: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some models, particularly later in the first generation run, but not standard for 1987. Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (Era-appropriate technology; no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months (consult manual for exact specification). Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs and related components: typically 30,000 miles. Transmission Fluid Change: Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles; Manual: Check as needed, typically inspected during clutch service. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Recommendation: API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Consult manual for specific mix ratio (typically 50/50). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 brake fluid. Transmission Fluid Type Auto: ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler specifications of the era), often compatible with Dexron II/III. Transmission Fluid Type Manual: API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust system components, brake components, clutch wear (manual transmission). Engine Specific Notes:...