By accessing this website, you acknowledge that Edmunds and its third party business partners may use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to collect information about you and your interactions with the website as described in our
Privacy Statement, and you agree that your use of the website is subject to our
Visitor Agreement.
Comments
The other day I brought my wife's truck to get inspected at one of those jiffy lube joints. While waiting I overheard one of the tech's telling a customer they should replace thier cabin filter. This was located under the cowling by the firewall. Looking at the cowling on the Dakota there are some plastic screws that look like you twist them counterclockwise and the cowling comes off. If there is a filter in there maybe it has one of these "Tags" attached or if there is no filter maybe something of that sort is down in that section. Will put that on the list of things to check.
The Dodge dealer from whom I purchased the truck had it a few times and determined that a seal in the transmission needed replacement. I was worried because I knew I was out of the warranty period. The service manager volunteered to check with his service rep to see what Dodge would do. I was armed with considerable testimonials from the wonderful people on this web site indicating that Chrysler covers transmission repairs within a reasonable amount of time beyond the warranty period.
The transmission was overhauled and Chrysler picked up all but $200 of the tab. I feel this is very reasonable. The dealer was excellent in trying to make things right. He did mention that transmission tuneups should be done every 24k if you don't trailer and every 12k if you do. He also confirmed other recommendations on this web site about only using Mopar 7176 tranny fluid.
I know there are a lot of negative posts about Mopar transmission, and I'm sure they're happening, but I'm pleased with how Chrysler stood behind their product in my case.
The trucks are identical except for the body style so the only decision you need to make is over cab size / bed length. If you have kids then quad is probably a better bet unless they are small and don't plan on growing much (or you change the truck before they do). The club cab rear seating is adequate, but I wouldn't recommend it for long journeys or large people. Also bear in mind there are no rear doors in the club cab.
On the other hand the extra space in the quad comes directly from the bed, so you lose 15" of bed length (5'3" to 6'6"). You can also carry 4x8 sheets in the club with the tailgate dropped, but not in the quad.
As you know I went club because it is what I need, I can carry everything I need (even if I need to drop the gate occasionally), and there is plenty of room in the club cab for the dogs.
In terms of packages, I have the SLT+ and I agree about the chromed grille. I am waiting for some accessory company to get up from their [non-permissible content removed] and approve stainless steel grille guards for the 2000 model so I can make the front look even better.
I have the tire and handling package and have the wheel flares. Not sure whether they are the same as the sport - I believe they are, but I think they are part of the handling package rather than the SLT package - don't quote me on that.
To give you some idea on price I paid C$37,500 for my Ontario registered truck - that was the final price including taxes, delivery, blah blah blah. For that I got:
Club cab, 4.7 V8, patriot blue, 4x4
SLT+ package (SLT with tire and handling and power convenience)
Luxury power convenience package (remote locking / power windows and stuff)
Bucket seats
Power 6x9 mirrors
Sliding rear window
Tow package
Skid plates
Heavy duty service group
Limited slip diff.
3.92 rear end
Air conditioning
Paint protection
Scothguarded fabric
Rustproofing
Probably a few other minor things I forgot.
Sounds like you have one hell of a truck.
I don't think I will go with as many options but
basically the same appearance....
Can you tell me why you went heavy duty service
group? Are you hauling? By the way...no kids...and I have a yellow lab!!! Does everybody own a lab? Also...this may sound really stupid...but what advantage does ltd slip give?
Thanks again!
R.
Heavy duty service group is a requirement with the tow package - basically to support the additional electrical drain of a trailer. Yes I will be towing a 23' cuddy cabin cruiser - around 4,500lbs with fuel / water and trailer included.
I don't have a lab, so not everyone but there are a lot about. I have Alaskan Malamutes, can't quite see labs pulling my sled!!
Advantage of limited slip - I sense a big debate looming, there are a number of topics on the benefits or otherwise of limited slipp differentials, and not everyone will agree with what I am going to say here. Still you know me, never one to shy away from controversy. This is definitely a non-technical answer, so if there are any engineers out there please don't cringe about the oversimplification.
Limited slip differential is intended to limit the amount that the rear wheels can slip - or spin in relation to one another. Essentially it helps improve traction in slippery conditions by restricting the amount that one rear wheel can turn in relation to the other.
Some people swear by it, some say its unnecessary with 4x4. I say it helps and if you saw some of the places I drove its a cheap price for additional peace of mind. Having said that I would never buy a 4x4 without it (unless there was a locking diff option - but let's not go there).
Also I have a black lab and only one. So far she rides on the bed in back. To new a truck yet to let her in back or front seat. Especialy when I go hunting. She's not groomed the best then.
How about you Andy? Are you letting any of your dogs in with you yet??
Jim
Yep, dogs come in the cab with me. Grooming - forget it, you have no idea how much a Mal. sheds.
That's why I coughed up the extra for the Scotchguard!!!
Biggest problem so far is the dried drool on the tonneau cover from the heads stuck out the back window.
If you are driving unloaded most of the time as a daily commute then the V6 will be fine. Having said that the V8 will give you more options, especially when it comes to towing - more on that later - and the fuel economy isn't that much worse on the V8.
You are right that the 4.7 is newer. Both it and the auto tranny came across from the Grand Cherokee for the 2000 model year having made their first appearance there in 99. Dodge has a reputation for having auto tranny problems. You can read the topic here at Edmunds, but there are a lot more problem free vehicles than problem ones. My personal opinion, and that's all it is, is that a lot (not all) of the auto tranny problems come from improper towing - especially in overdrive.
The 4.7 motor itself is amazing, very smooth, very easy to roll on the power. Too early to say how it will stand up over time, but regular maintenance and good quality oil / filters should leave it problem free. Personally I don't think I have driven a nicer engine.
If you are thinking about the towing package also factor in the cost of the heavy duty service group - it is a requirement for the tow package.
The 3.55 rear end will be fine for highway driving, but you will lose towing capabilities. Now this becomes important - a V6 4x4 with the 3.55 will tow 3,800lbs. A V8 4x4 with the 3.92 will tow 6,500lbs. Bear in mind that you shouldn't exceed 80-85% of capacity and you can see that one factor in your decision is if and what you want to tow.
Now if you go for the 3.92 rear end for towing you can bring the ratio back to close to 3.55 by upgrading to the 31x10.5 tires. I haven't done the math, but it will be close. Personally in a 4x4 I would do this as part of the tire and handling package. I would also put the limited slip differential in (see previous posts), but I don't know what your weather is like or how much off roading you will be doing.
A final thought - you mentioned the lumber store, don't forget you need to drop the tailgate to get 8' lengths in - not a problem, just a nasty surprise if you don't realise in advance.
Hope this addresses some of your questions, you know what to do with any more.
The brochure also says that the R/T(2000 Dakota) package is availble in the reg cab but I have'nt seen it either.
Very much appreciated. Well, I went to the dealer in town tonight with the pup....oh and the wife too..ha ha ha...anyway...There on the lot was a Dakota 2000 Club 4x4 in Patriot Blue...Slt...like yours Andy?...What a gorgeous truck!! Thank God they were closed or a purchase would have occurred right then and there. MSRP was 33,415 plus all the taxes etc...Not loaded but pretty close. This is the package I wanted to see but the lots and brochure didn't have anything similar til now. It is going to be hard to stay away from there. The dealer says there is a restriction right now on the options I want. I'll wait. Thanks again.
R.
All I can figure is that it means that I can drive in 4wheel on pavement? Unlike partime?
This is more complex than buying a house!
R.
All I can figure is that it means that I can drive in 4wheel on pavement? Unlike partime?
This is more complex than buying a house!
R.
OK, here we go:
jferraris - yes 4.7 & R/T are available in regular cab, but you won't see many because they don't sell very well. You certainly won't find one on a lot.
crazycanuck - sounds like a great truck. You got it about right on the full time transfer case. It is an option on the V8 and essentially means that the 4wd system is a little more intelligent. You don't have a 2wd option with it, so technically the truck is always in 4wd. However the system will monitor the wheels and if you are driving on nice dry pavement you are still virtually 2wd.
Not many downsides to the system, you may notice a slightly poorer fuel economy figure, but nothing dramatic. The cynics would say it is something else to go wrong of course.
Incidentally, you still have the high / low range.
houtslaw - can't say I've noticed my ticking recently, not sure if I'm getting used to it, or if its gone away. I'll have to turn the radio off and listen for it - radio stays on tonight though - the Leafs are playing!!!!!
No the gas mileage isn't much different between the 6 and the 8, only about 1 mpg or so.
Anyone have any ideas about protecting this thing when I get it. I have had problems with rock chips and rust with other vehicles going off road.
Particularly around the lower frame where the front wheels kick up gravel and hit the paint. Also rust around the wheel flares. Is this just a fact of life or is there any action or products I can install to protect this investment?
ps. Now I'm torn between black and Patriot blue.
I hate decisions.
R.
Don't ask me to get into the chemistry of it, but essentially it is a clear barrier that goes over the paint and provides a physical barrier between the paint and the environment thereby 'shielding' the truck finish from chips.
I paid C$800 for the paint treatment, scotchguard and rustproofing - this probably equates to around C$150-200 for the paint. Because this is dealer supplied and therefore more profit for them it usually allows you to negotiate a better deal on the truck reducing the effective cost.
You are right about the full-time 4x4 and auto - I forgot about that, apologies for missing it from my post on the subject.
Full time Xfer case: This is just a differential in the xfer case. Basically one-wheel-drive. I have had bad experiance with this type of system in other vehicles because ALL of the 4X4 parts are ALWAYS in motion causing undue wear -n- tear on things. Any one wheel slips--you are stuck
Ticking on the 4.7L: The fuel injectors are most likely what people are hearing. A recient test of this engine running on natural gas (300+ HP)
mentions that the ticking is VERY loud because of the resonance through the injection system and the lack of liquid fuel to quiet it.
Here are the particulars.
Dakota C/C 4/4 SLT Plus 4.7L.V8 5-speed Intense Blue/Light Driftwood two tone Limited spin differential 3.92 Axle Fog lamps Heavy duty service group 6x9 mirrors Bodyside molding 1800# Payload C/D Player Trailer tow group Sliding rear window Dealer Invoice..$22,497 includes $380 Ad fee Farm Bureau Certificate $-500 Total cost -$21,997
Now the waiting begins,Dealer says maybe before Christmas. I'm thinking after the new year, Hope I'm wrong. Going to put a topper on,Does any body have any recommendations for toppers that fit
well?
Thanks again for the info.
hokie3 - Don't have an R/T, but bear a couple of things in mind - firstly its not a serious truck, its a sports truck - It can only tow 2000# for instance. Also bear in mind that you can't get a stick shift, so you can't make the best of the power. Finally it only has around 10-15hp more than the 4.7.
If you like the look go for it, but then bring it along to my place and we'll have a nice close run against my standard 4.7 4X4 over the 1/4.
I finally brought the truck in for it's first oil change and mentioned the sqeak. Told them that they could reproduce it by just rocking the truck while in park. They verified the noise and put it on the rack. Three Technicians later they found it. It was a rubber gromet that fits around the 4 wheel drive shift lever that goes thru the floor board to the transfer case. I guess the lever was bumping the exaust or frame making the squeak noise.
While driving the truck back home I decided to take the highway to see about the rattle noise in the dash. This was also gone !!
The loose gromet must have been dangling on the lever and when the truck is brought up to 45 mph or greater the little bugger starts flapping around !!
I originally posted that I thought this was a leaf or a tag in the air ducts of the dash board but I was not even close. Thought I would pass this on because I beleive someone else had the same noise.
Still have the ticking like everyone else but I will just check back here from time to time for any news.
R.
Slt trim
4.7 V8 5 speed
Tire/handling pkg
Limited slip diff.
Fog lamps
The first quote was: 31,446
The second quote: 28,785
This is before taxes and probably withour a/c tax and destination.
Do these sound reasonable or should I try for less?
Thanks.
R.
For more info, try forum 1250 (Dakota Axle Ratios---Help!!!)
Might want to try autobytel.ca. I had a bad experience there, they are only as good as the dealers, but you should at least get a quote that you can use in negotiations. The deal is based on $x over invoice. I believe Dakota is $500.
You might also try www.chariots.com
I haven't studied it but I am told it is quite good - and it's Canadian.
You truly are a wealth of information.
Any comments on the axle question?
By the way, Andy, how is your truck doing?
Do the dogs mind not having the 4 doors?
R.
Just curious....Thanks.
R.
I think you may have a little trouble with the 3.55 though. The 3.55 / 5 speed combo has been on restriction for some time, and some posts here have suggested that Dodge are refusing to supply the combination because of concerns that the axle won't take the power through the manual transmission. You may therefore be forced into the 3.92, which as I previously noted will effectively be back to the 3.55 & standard tires as you have opted for the handling package.
Interesting.....
Here are a few URLs I found that describe the engineering marvel this engine really is. DC has broken from the pack in this engine design! Check out the carbon composite bedplate and NO SPARK PLUG WIRES to ever wear out!!
http://www.wardsauto.com/best10/99info/dcc47v8.htm
http://dodgeram.com/technical/cammer/4_7_v8.html
My store got confirmation this afternoon and should get them in next week. Also finally got the paint job sorted out on the colour matched bug deflectors so should have the truck looking the way it should by next weekend.
Now for the next upgrade. I'm thinking K&N and Flowmaster to help the 4.7 breathe a little better, any opinions?
At this rpm the engine is a bit louder also.
full-time transfer case. I live where the winters
can be bad. Would the Anti-Spin Diff be a worthwhile option? I note that it requires the
3.92 axle ratio also.
You can't get the full-time transfer case with the 4.7, only with the 5.9.
4x4 QUAD Cab.
5.9 is only available on R/T (at least as far as Dakota is concerned) and this is only available as 4x2. You therefore cannot combine the 5.9 with the full time transfer case in Dakota.
Full time transfer case requires 4.7 and auto transmission. However that wasn't antony's original question. The limited slip diff is definitely a good idea (in my opinion) if you are somewhere that the weather can be bad. At a simple level if you lose traction on one side of the vehicle with an open differential you could be in trouble - putting the right side in the ditch for example. With the limited slip you should be able to crawl out.
I personally would never drive a truck without the limited slip (I am in rural Ontario). As far as full time transfer case is concerned, well that's your choice. I don't see the need (and have the 5 speed anyway), but if it makes you feel more comfortable it can't be a bad thing - though it will probably wear out quicker as the mechanics are always engaged (the traction is electronically controlled).
I wasn't aware that limited slip required the 3.92 rear end, I thought that I read posts a few weeks ago from someone who was combining with the 3.55. Might be worth checking.
The 5.9 is also available on the new Quad Cab.
As far as I know it can be mated with the full time transfer case in that situation (but don't quote me on that).
the: 3.55 rear end and 5-speed
3.92 and automatic
Andy. Do you know how the 4wd hubs work on the Dakota? There is no mention in the manual of having to back up to disengage them. Is that not necessary or do all the parts just rotate all the time.
Hubs - not sure on the mechanics, I guess they rotate because no need to back up. You can switch between 4wd and 2wd truly on the fly. Only recommendation is to ease off of the throttle briefly to help engage 4wd faster.
any advantage to getting the 3.92 axle along with
it, or should I stick to the 3.55 ?
The 3.55 has better fuel economy.
The 3.92 has better acceleration from a standing start and a higher towing capacity.
It depends which is more important to you. Certainly if you plan to tow anything significant you really need the 3.92.
Give us a few more details about your expected use and I'll try and provide a more relvant answer.
somewhat interested in the 3.92 in order to get the better acceleration, but I was wondering how
the 3.92 would behave at 60-65 mph. For example,
I have heard that such "tall" axle ratios are
noisy and inefficient at highway speeds and require the engine to run at higher RPM.
Now that said your tire choices are also going to factor into it. You mentioned originally that you get bad weather so I guess you might be contemplating the tire and handling package that comes with the 31x10.5 tires.
With this combo on my truck my (4.7) engine is revving at somewhere around 2000 at 100km in 5th gear (100km = 62.5m). Can't recall the exact number but 2000 is close.
If I had smaller tires the rpm would be higher, if I had the 3.55 then the rpm would be lower. If I had the 3.55 with the smaller tires the number would be about the same.
Can't compare noise at that speed between the 3.55 and the 3.92, but I can tell you that I certainly don't consider it noisy on my truck.