Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma
Unique Selling Proposition:
Offered V8 engine option in its class, more car-like ride for its segment at the time.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all available engine variants.
Engine Performance:
Engine tuning, emission control systems, fuel delivery, ignition system diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul for manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and overhaul for automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) axle and driveshaft service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, struts, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnostics, repair, and components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS diagnostics, caliper, rotor, and drum brake service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, and accessories.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, frame straightening (if applicable).
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis and repair.
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard components, trim panels.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and fault finding charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic procedures, sensor testing, and module testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, and measurements for all components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and diagnostics)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.5 L (150 cu in) I4
Engine 1 Horsepower:
122 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
154 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.9 L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Engine 2 Horsepower:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
5.2 L (318 cu in) Magnum V8
Engine 3 Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4500 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/V8, 87 or higher for I4)
ECM Type:
Chrysler JTEC (or similar Chrysler diagnostic platform for the era)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Bed Lengths:
6.2 ft (Standard Bed), 7.7 ft (Long Bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,500 - 4,300 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (for most configurations, verify with specific reports)
ABS:
Standard on all models (rear-wheel ABS on some early models, 4-wheel ABS optional/standard later)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions; consult manual for specifics)
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on service classification and driving)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (for most engines, verify with manual); API SN or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (Chrysler proprietary, or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) ethylene glycol coolant
Common Problem 1:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially 5.2L V8)
Common Problem 2:
Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends
Common Problem 3:
Transmission cooler line leaks (especially on automatic transmissions)
Common Problem 4:
ABS sensor failures leading to ABS warning light
Maintenance Schedule Highlight
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium recommended)
Serpentine Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 60,000-100,000 miles)
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation
