Dodge Dakota Service Manual

The second-generation Dakota was built from 1997 through 2004. It inherited the semi truck look of the larger Ram but remained largely the same underneath. 1998 saw the introduction of the R/T model with the big 5.9 L 250 hp (186 kW) Magnum V8. At the time of its introduction, it was seen as five of the most radical in its class, not only for its styling, but for the fact it remained the only truck in its class with an obtainable V8 engine that rivalled many V8s found in full size trucks & with payload 1300-1500 pounds.

Four-door "Quad-Cab" models were added for 2000 with a slightly shorter bed, 63.1 in (160.2 cm), but riding on the Club Cab's 130.9 in (332.5 cm) wheelbase. The aging 5.2 L Magnum V8 was replaced by a new high-tech 4.7 L SOHC PowerTech V8. The Quad-Cab featured a full-size flip up rear chair to provide room for 3 passengers in the back or lots of dry, interior room for cargo.

2002 was the final year for the four-cylinder engine in the Dakota, as Chrysler was ending production of the former AMC design. Most buyers ordered the V6 or V8 engines, which were considerably more powerful &, in the case of the V6, which was made standard for 2003, almost as fuel-efficient with a manual transmission.

2001 saw a extensive revision of the Dakota's interior, including a redesigned dash, door panels & revised seats. Other minor trim revisions were made, including redesigned aluminium wheels on various models.

2004 was the end of the elderly OHV V6 & the big R/T V8; the 2004 model year vehicles were obtainable with the PowerTech engines, now also used in the third-generation Dakota.