1987 Dodge Dakota Service Manual

The 1987 Dodge Dakota Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for the 1987 Dodge Dakota pickup truck, covering engine systems (2.2L and 2.5L 4-cylinder engines), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, body components, and maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, repair procedures, and technical data.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Suspension & Steering 6. Brake Systems 7. Electrical Systems 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Technical Service Bulletins 11. Wiring Diagrams

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 1987 Dodge Dakota models.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	2.2L I4, 2.5L I4
Horsepower	96-105 hp
Torque	124-135 lb-ft
Transmission	5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Drivetrain	RWD, 4WD optional
Wheelbase	111.9 inches
Payload Capacity	1,550-2,250 lbs
Fuel Capacity	20 gallons
Brake System	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Filter Replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles, fuel filter every 30,000 miles
Tire Rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Brake Inspection: Every 12,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Disconnect battery before electrical work.

Engine Systems

Service procedures for 2.2L and 2.5L 4-cylinder engines.

Spark Plug Replacement: Gap 0.035 inches, torque 20 ft-lbs
Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles
Fuel System: Carburetor adjustment and fuel pump testing
Cooling System: Thermostat replacement and radiator flush
Ignition System: Distributor cap and rotor inspection

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before servicing. Use proper safety equipment.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual Transmission: A465 5-speed, fluid capacity 3.5 pints
Automatic Transmission: A904 3-speed, fluid capacity 12 quarts
Transfer Case: Borg-Warner 13-56 (4WD models)
Differential: 8.25-inch ring gear, 3.55:1 ratio standard
Clutch: 10.4-inch diameter, hydraulic actuation
Driveshaft: Two-piece with center support bearing
U-Joints: Grease every 15,000 miles

Suspension & Steering

Front suspension: Independent with torsion bars. Rear suspension: Leaf springs.

Steering: Recirculating ball type, power steering optional.

Alignment Specifications: Camber +0.5° to +1.5°, Caster +2.5° to +3.5°, Toe-in 1/16 inch. Shock Absorbers: Replace in pairs. Ball Joints: Check for wear every 15,000 miles. Tie Rod Ends: Inspect for looseness during rotation.

Brake Systems

Hydraulic brake system with front disc and rear drum brakes.

Brake Pad Replacement: Minimum thickness 1/8 inch
Brake Drum Resurface: Maximum diameter 10.090 inches
Brake Fluid: DOT 3, flush every 30,000 miles
Parking Brake: Adjust cable tension
Master Cylinder: Bench bleed before installation

Tip: Always replace brake components in axle sets.

Electrical Systems

12-volt negative ground system with 60-amp alternator.

Battery: Group 24, 550 CCA
Alternator Output: 14.2 volts at 2,000 RPM
Starter: 1.4 kW, pinion gear inspection
Fuse Panel: Under dashboard, 20 fuses total
Lighting: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement
Ignition System: Electronic spark control
Charging System: Voltage regulator testing
Ground Connections: Clean and tighten periodically

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical repairs. Avoid short circuits.

Body & Interior

Steel body construction with vinyl or cloth interior options.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Ignition, fuel, battery	Check spark, fuel delivery, battery voltage
Poor fuel economy	Carburetor, timing	Adjust carburetor mixture, check ignition timing
Brake pull	Calipers, alignment	Inspect brake calipers, check front end alignment
Transmission slipping	Fluid level, bands	Check fluid level, adjust bands
Electrical issues	Grounds, alternator	Clean ground connections, test alternator output

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Technical Service Bulletins

Manufacturer-issued updates and corrections for known issues.

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all systems.

Includes: Starting & Charging Systems, Lighting Circuits, Ignition System, Gauges & Indicators, Accessory Circuits. Color-coded wiring with connector locations and ground points.

Service: Contact Chrysler Technical Service at 1-800-247-9753 for additional support.