Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Digital Software (e.g., PDF, HTML, or dedicated viewer)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum 4-cylinder (ID: AMC 2.5L), 3.9L Magnum V6 (ID: 3.9L), 4.7L Magnum V8 (ID: 4.7L)
Performance
2.5L Horsepower:
120 hp @ 4800 rpm
2.5L Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
3.9L Horsepower:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
4.7L Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm
4.7L Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4-cyl & 3.9L V6, 89 octane or higher recommended for 4.7L V8)
Engine Type
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) for 4.7L V8, Overhead Cam (OHC) for 4.7L V8 (later versions were OHC), OHV for 4-cyl and 3.9L V6.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag 238 for 4-cyl/3.9L V6, NV3500 for 3.9L V6)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RE for 4-cyl/3.9L V6, 45RFE for 4.7L V8)
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (specific weight varies by transmission model)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
111.7 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
124.9 inches
Overall Length Varies:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 176 to 208 inches)
Width Excluding Mirrors:
71.7 inches
Height:
65.8 - 66.7 inches (depending on configuration)
Cargo
Bed Length Short:
6.3 feet
Bed Length Long:
7.5 feet
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 7,300 lbs (with 4.7L V8, 4WD, and optional towing package)
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 1,750 lbs (depending on configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars (for most configurations)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims, optional on base models.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, reinforced body structure.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with CD player (optional), cassette player (early models), optional Infinity premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited in 2003 models; primarily ABS and basic trip computer. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Standard 12V power outlet, optional power windows and locks, optional remote keyless entry.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs 4 Cyl 3.9L V6:
Replace every 100,000 miles (platinum tipped spark plugs).
Spark Plugs 4.7L V8:
Replace every 100,000 miles (platinum tipped spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on towing and driving conditions.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec 4 Cyl:
API SN or newer, SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Spec 3.9L V6:
API SN or newer, SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil Spec 4.7L V8:
API SN or newer, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 if extreme heat)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Rear main seal leaks, plenum gasket leaks (on 4.7L V8), front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), ABS sensor failures, occasional transmission solenoid issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the early days of the automotive industry.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The second generation Dakota (AN) introduced in 1997 offered a significant redesign over its predecessor, including the introduction of the first V8 engine in a compact pickup.
Production
Production Years:
1997-2004 (for the AN platform)
Assembly Locations:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
The Dodge Dakota was often praised for its powerful V8 engine option, which set it apart from many competitors in the compact pickup segment at the time.
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