1987 Dodge Dakota Owners Manual PDF

The 1987 Dodge Dakota is a compact pickup truck available in various configurations including 2WD and 4WD models with different engine options. This manual covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all 1987 Dakota models. Below are key sections for vehicle overview, controls, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Troubleshooting 8. Safety Information 9. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

The 1987 Dodge Dakota features a rugged design with available V6 engine options and multiple cab configurations.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	2.2L I4, 3.7L V6, 5.2L V8
Transmission	4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Drive Configuration	2WD and 4WD models available
Bed Length	6.5 ft or 8 ft options
Cab Style	Regular cab, Club cab
Payload Capacity	1,500 to 2,500 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity	Up to 5,500 lbs with proper equipment
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection (EFI) or carburetor
Braking System	Front disc, rear drum with power assist
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear

Instrument Panel

Main dashboard controls and indicators for proper vehicle operation.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Tachometer: Engine RPM display (if equipped)
Fuel Gauge: Monitors fuel level
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Oil Pressure Gauge: Engine oil pressure monitoring
Warning Lights: Check engine, brake, battery, oil pressure
Control Switches: Headlights, wipers, heater/AC controls

WARNING! Never ignore warning lights; stop vehicle immediately if red warning lights illuminate.

Operating Instructions

Proper starting, driving, and shutdown procedures.

Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to start position
Shifting: Smooth clutch operation for manual; gradual acceleration for automatic
4WD Operation: Engage only at low speeds; disengage when not needed
Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park (automatic) or reverse (manual)
Lights: Use headlights in low visibility; high beams for dark roads

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up in cold weather before driving.

Specifications

Wheelbase: 112 inches (short bed), 124 inches (long bed)
Overall Length: 178-190 inches depending on configuration
Width: 68.5 inches
Height: 64-66 inches
Curb Weight: 3,200-3,800 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 18-22 gallons
Turning Circle: 38-42 feet
Ground Clearance: 6.5-8.5 inches
GVWR: 4,600-5,600 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid level checks

Every 6,000 miles: Air filter inspection/replacement, brake inspection

Every 15,000 miles: Fuel filter replacement, coolant flush, spark plugs

Every 30,000 miles: Transmission fluid, differential fluid, timing belt

Seasonal: Battery check, tire pressure adjustment, wiper blades

Fluid Capacities

Proper fluid types and capacities for all systems.

Engine Oil: 4-5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant: 10-12 quarts (entire system)
Automatic Transmission: 12-14 quarts (total capacity)
Manual Transmission: 3-4 pints
Front Differential: 2-3 pints (4WD models)
Rear Differential: 3-4 pints
Transfer Case: 2 pints (4WD models)
Brake Fluid: As needed (DOT 3)
Power Steering: 1-2 pints

Tip: Use only recommended fluid types specified in manual.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for 1987 Dodge Dakota.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel pump, spark plugs, battery	Check fuel pressure, replace plugs, test battery
Rough idle	Vacuum leak, dirty injectors	Inspect vacuum lines, clean fuel injectors
Overheating	Thermostat, water pump, coolant	Replace thermostat, check water pump, flush coolant
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors, worn pads	Resurface or replace rotors, install new pads
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch bands	Check fluid level, adjust or rebuild transmission
Electrical issues	Alternator, battery, grounds	Test charging system, clean battery connections

Reset: Disconnect battery for 15 minutes to reset computer if needed.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for vehicle operation and maintenance.

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle; never rely on jack alone. Wear safety glasses during maintenance. Keep children away from maintenance areas.

Warranty Information

1987 Dodge Dakota came with 12-month/12,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. Contact Dodge dealership for specific warranty claims and coverage details.