🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 1996 Codes Platform: Second Generation (AN) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact Pickup Truck Key Selling Points 1996: Improved styling, more refined interior, increased towing capacity compared to previous generation Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma Key Features Manual Advantage: Official licensing ensures accuracy and completeness, digital format offers quick access and searchability Vehicle Appeal: Reputation for durability, availability of V6 engines, comfortable ride for a truck of its era 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: All systems and components Page Count Page Count: Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive like a factory service manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all engines Engine Performance: Fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, cooling system Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions Transmission Automatic: Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions Drivetrain: Front and rear axles, driveshafts, differentials, 4WD system (if applicable) Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear Brakes: Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS system, hydraulic components Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories Body And Frame: Body panels, doors, interior trim, frame diagnostics HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnostics and repair Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections Troubleshooting: Extensive diagnostic charts and procedures for common and uncommon issues Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair Component Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions Diagnostic Procedures: Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) lookup and interpretation, electrical circuit testing Calibration And Adjustment: Wheel alignment, ignition timing (if applicable), brake adjustments Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive (factory-level detail) Diagnostic Charts: Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts for electrical and mechanical issues Wiring Diagrams: Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all systems Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components Special Tools: Identification and usage instructions for required specialized tools 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Likely PDF or proprietary executable software Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution digital images and text, suitable for printing Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Software) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.5L Magnum (4-cylinder), 3.9L Magnum (V6), 5.2L Magnum (V8 - rare in 2WD, more common in 4x4) Performance 2.5L Horsepower: Approx. 125 hp 3.9L Horsepower: Approx. 175 hp 5.2L Horsepower: Approx. 230 hp Torque Figures: Detailed torque figures for each engine variant available in the manual Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for all engines Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Maintenance Notes Spark Plug Type: Specific recommendations provided in manual (e.g., Champion copper or platinum) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed manual Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed automatic (42RE, 46RE) Features Drivetrain Options: Rear-wheel drive (RWD), Four-wheel drive (4WD) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+3 (Mopar specification) or equivalent Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity recommended in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 111.9 inches (standard cab), 124.9 inches (club cab) Bed Lengths: 6.5 feet (standard), 8 feet (long bed) Weights Curb Weight: Varies significantly by configuration, typically 3,500 - 4,500 lbs Towing Capacity: Up to 7,000+ lbs depending on engine and configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Specific 1996 ratings not readily available but generally performed adequately for its class at the time Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on some trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag standard Seatbelts: Standard three-point seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available Connectivity Auxiliary Inputs: N/A (pre-modern connectivity era) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, as specified in manual) Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions Coolant Flush: Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Viscosity: 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on temperature and engine, specified in manual) Coolant Type: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (5/150) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant Known Issues Common Problem 1: Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 models) Common Problem 2: Heater core leaks Common Problem 3: Rear main seal leaks (on some engine variants) Common Problem 4: Transmission shift issues (automatic transmission) 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge Truck Legacy: Dodge has a long history of producing capable and rugged trucks, with the Dakota being their entry into the compact pickup market. Model Evolution Second Generation Launch: Introduced for the 1997 model year, but this manual...