🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Model Generation: Third Generation (DR/HB) Applicable Years: 2002, 2003 Vin Code First Digit: 4 (Stellantis North America Plant) Vin Code Fourth Character: D (Dakota) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: Buyers seeking a versatile, capable, and affordable pickup truck for work and personal use. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier. Differentiators: Often offered with larger V8 engine options than competitors in its class, a robust exterior design. Key Features Powertrain Options: Available with V6 and V8 engines, offering strong performance for its size. Body Styles: Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), Quad Cab (four-door). Drivetrain Options: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and part-time four-wheel drive (4WD). Suspension Design: Independent front suspension, solid rear axle with leaf springs contributing to payload and towing capability. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Overall Coverage: Comprehensive factory service and repair Specific Systems: Engine, Powertrain, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical, Body, Emissions, Diagnostic Procedures Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2000+ (typical for full factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed disassembly, assembly, and torque specifications for all engine variants. Engine Performance: Diagnostic procedures for power loss, misfires, idle control, and emissions-related faults. Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions. Transmission Automatic: Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions. Drivetrain 4X4: Service for transfer case, front axle, and related components for 4x4 models. Suspension Front: Detailed repair and adjustment of independent front suspension components. Suspension Rear: Service procedures for leaf spring rear suspension. Steering: Repair and diagnosis of power steering system and steering linkage. Brakes Hydraulic: Service for master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and wheel cylinders. Brakes ABS: Diagnostic and repair procedures for Anti-lock Braking System components. HVAC: Service and repair of air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling. Electrical Charging: Diagnosis and repair of alternator, battery, and charging system faults. Electrical Starting: Troubleshooting and repair of starter motor and related circuits. Lighting: Wiring diagrams and repair for all exterior and interior lighting. Instrument Panel: Diagnosis and repair of gauges, warning lights, and instrument cluster. Body Interior: Procedures for interior trim removal and installation. Body Exterior: Panel removal, alignment, and repair procedures. Emissions Control: Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including EVAP and catalytic converter. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Detailed intervals and procedures for routine maintenance items. Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues. Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components. Diagnostic Procedures: Detailed methods for identifying the root cause of vehicle problems. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for critical fasteners. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain repairs. Adjustments Calibrations: Procedures for adjusting sensors, linkages, and other system parameters. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level repair and diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Detail Level: Includes detailed specifications, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval. Readability: Optimized for digital viewing and printing. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity. Binding Type Physical Format If Applicable: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Physical Format If Applicable: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Displacement 2002 2003: 2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum 4-cylinder Engine Displacement V6 2002 2003: 3.7L (226 cu in) Magnum V6 Engine Displacement V8 2002 2003: 4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8 Performance V6 Horsepower 3.7L V6: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 3.7L V6: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Performance V8 Horsepower 4.7L V8: 235 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque 4.7L V8: 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Codes 4Cyl Code: ND4 (2.5L) V6 Code: NDB (3.7L) V8 Code: NDB (4.7L V8 - shared designation with 3.7L V6 in some documentation) 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Manual Transmission Gearbox: Getrag NV1500 5-speed manual transmission (standard on 2.5L and some V6 models). Standard Automatic Automatic Transmission Gearbox: 42RE 4-speed automatic transmission (available on V6 models). Optional Automatic Automatic Transmission Gearbox V8: 45RFE 4-speed automatic transmission (standard on V8 models). Features Transfer Case 4X4: NV235 or NV241 (depending on configuration) part-time 4WD transfer case. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Dexron III/Mercon ATF or Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (check specific manual chapter). Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (MS-9602) is standard for the 45RFE; check manual for 42RE specific requirements, likely ATF+3. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Lengths Wheelbase Short Bed: 111.9 inches Wheelbase Long Bed: 124.9 inches Bed Sizes Short Bed Length: 6.25 feet Long Bed Length: 8.0 feet Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately...