The Dodge Dakota was a compact to mid-size pickup truck known for its balance of size, capability, and V8 engine options, often positioned as a more powerful alternative to smaller compact trucks and a more manageable option than full-size trucks.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier
Key Features
Vehicle Features:
Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations, choice of bed lengths, powerful V8 engine options, available 4WD, distinctive Dodge styling.
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic data
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable for quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans, clear text and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1:
3.7L Magnum V6 (PowerTech)
Engine 1 Displacement:
3701 cc (226 cu in)
Engine 1 Cylinders:
6
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
SOHC
Engine 1 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2:
4.7L Magnum V8 (PowerTech)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4701 cc (287 cu in)
Engine 2 Cylinders:
8
Engine 2 Valvetrain:
SOHC
Engine 2 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission 1:
42RLE Automatic (4-speed)
Optional
Transmission 2:
NV3500 Manual (5-speed)
Features
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gear on automatics, electronic control for automatic transmission, robust manual gearbox for off-road capability.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Short:
111.7 inches (approx.)
Wheelbase Long:
124.7 inches (approx.)
Overall Length Short:
194.7 inches (approx.)
Overall Length Long:
217.7 inches (approx.)
Cargo
Bed Length Short:
6.25 feet (approx.)
Bed Length Long:
8.0 feet (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight V6:
4,100 - 4,500 lbs (approx.)
Curb Weight V8:
4,300 - 4,700 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,600 lbs (with V8 and proper towing package)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,700 lbs (approx.)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Good (for 2005 models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Good (for 2005 models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front-passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Height-adjustable front seatbelts, pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (early models), and optional premium sound system. Basic digital display for radio and clock.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control
Connectivity
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or SAE 10W-30 for colder climates, consult manual)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity V8:
6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing robust and capable vehicles, including trucks.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (AN) Dodge Dakota, which ran from 1997 to 2004, with significant updates in 2001 that carried into the 2005 model year. Key updates included a more powerful V8 engine and revised styling.
Production
Assembly Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
The Dodge Dakota, particularly the V8-equipped models, often received praise for its class-leading V8 power and towing capabilities during its production run.
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