🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Model Years Covered: 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 Generation First Generation Years: 1987-1996 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Pickup Truck Target Audience: DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicle. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup. Key Features Utility: Renowned for its robust build and utility in a compact package, often serving as a workhorse. Customization: Popular platform for customization and modification within the truck community. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas All Aspects: Comprehensive coverage of all service and repair jobs. Page Count Estimated Pages: Extensive, likely over 1000 pages based on the breadth of coverage indicated. Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, emission controls. Engine Electrical: Ignition system, starting and charging, fuel injection, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics. Transmission Manual: Clutch, manual transmission assembly, overhaul, torque specifications. Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission assembly, overhaul, shift control, hydraulic systems, diagnostic procedures. Drivetrain: Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential, CV joints (if applicable). Suspension Front: Independent front suspension, steering knuckle, control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, springs, alignment specifications. Suspension Rear: Solid rear axle, leaf springs, shock absorbers, torque specifications for U-bolts. Steering: Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, alignment. Brakes Front: Disc brake system, caliper, rotor, pads, hydraulic lines, master cylinder. Brakes Rear: Drum brake system (common for this era) or disc brakes, wheel cylinders, shoes, drums, parking brake mechanism. Electrical Chassis: Lighting system, horns, wipers, power windows, power locks, interior electronics, accessory circuits. Body And Frame: Body panel repair, frame straightening, door and latch mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis. Restraints: Seat belts, airbags (if equipped, though less common in early models), safety system components. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system fault finding. Repair Overhaul: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, assembly, and reinstallation. Diagnostics: ECM codes, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit testing. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, electrical resistance values, alignment angles. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Quality: Professional Quality, highly detailed. Searchable: Implied by PDF format, allowing for text searching of keywords. Print Quality Printability: Printable pages for on-site workshop use. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine 1 Engine Code: 2.5L I4 (4-151) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches) Horsepower Est: 105-118 hp (depending on year and specific variant) Torque Est: 130-135 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant) Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Primary Engine 2 Engine Code: 3.9L V6 (6G75) Displacement: 3.9 Liters (239 cubic inches) Horsepower Est: 125-170 hp (depending on year and specific variant) Torque Est: 150-210 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant) Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Primary Engine 3 Engine Code: 5.2L V8 (318) Displacement: 5.2 Liters (318 cubic inches) Horsepower Est: 230 hp (for later Magnum V8 models) Torque Est: 295 lb-ft (for later Magnum V8 models) Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Magnum engine Performance Engine Variants: Available with 2.5L I4, 3.9L V6, and later models offered the 5.2L V8 (Magnum). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual (early models), 5-speed Manual (later models) Optional Transmission 1 Type: 3-speed Automatic (e.g., A500/42RH) Optional Transmission 2 Type: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., A518/46RH, 46RE, 47RE for V8) Features Overdrive: Overdrive gears available in 4-speed automatics for improved fuel economy. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Wheelbase Regular Cab: Approx. 112.2 inches Wheelbase Extended Cab: Approx. 124.1 inches Exterior Length Overall Length Short Bed: Approx. 179.1 inches Overall Length Long Bed: Approx. 194.1 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: Ranges from approximately 3,000 lbs to 4,000 lbs depending on configuration. Cargo Bed Lengths: Offered in 6-foot and 7.5-foot bed lengths. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Est: As a pickup truck of this era, rollover ratings were generally moderate and varied by configuration. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims, particularly later years or optional. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag typically standard from mid-90s onwards; passenger airbags less common in this generation. Seatbelts: Lap and shoulder belts standard. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio System: Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims. Speakers: Typically 2 or 4 speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control available on most models. Connectivity Aux Input: Not...