Dodge Dakota - III

4daughters

Whoops! I forgot to add my two cents on the name of the club. Not meaning to be gender specific but the name "The Dakota Boys(z)" has a decent ring. I saw the name Dodge Boyz already and just adjusted it. Also, is the capability to edit ones post possible. I use it on another discussion forum and it works great for "Whoops" re-calls.

andy_jordan

You can't edit - PITA that is - especially with my tryping (sic). What you can do is scribble your post - effectively delete it (though the topic then skips a number). You should see that the post number for your posts are blue. If you click on them then you can either hide your post (comes up Hidden Response) or Scribble it.

96g11

I am always looking for new stuff for my quad. Even if not for me I just like to know what is available. I found a company called Dee Zee. No I don't work for them. They will send you a free catalog. Look on page 24!!!!!! Bright yellow dakota sport tricked out. I will be ordering the mirror covers and possibly tht door handle covers. www.deezee.com check them out.

bigal31

Andy,
The 4 categories are just fine.That way everyone can have some input or output at one time or another.I mean one day I (or someone else) might not be interested in just one topic,4 is just right.
As far as the name,Dodge Dakota Quad/club cabs.Simple and easy.My 2 cents..
Allen

spike50

For the benefit of anyone else like me, post when this club becomes official. Also, how do we get to it and its topics? I must admit that I probably use <1% of the Edmund's site's capability, so help me out.

themacguy

The 'owners club' will be just above the 'trucks' category on the Town Hall page. Just click on it instead of 'trucks.' My understanding is that - and this is helpful - we'll be Dakota 'something or other,' and that means (alphabetically) on the first page of names. Then just find your Topic of interest - currently we're discussing four if I'm reading the posts correctly - within the 'Dakota' named club & voila, you're in! Pretty easy...

slr9589

hey everyone...when will the column take place? it will be great to have a spot to see any trends before they become a prolem.
my Quad is great..even my wife thinks it rides nice and smoothe....got to get used to the V8...it flies...
dealer still has not replaced my missing grab bar..i'll hold the sales quality survey hostage til i get my part installed!!!
slr

jtjohn1

Hello All,
Got my Dak Quad about 2 weeks ago (ordered either last week of Jan 1st week of Feb LDSG 4X4 with th 4.7, Auto and pretty much optioned out.) I checked the bed after reading all of the posts and sure enough it was out of alignment by 1/2 inch. Got that fixed but now my brakes are acting funny. They will fade when you are at a stop light (go right to the floor if you don't pump them back up!) The dealer cant seem to find anything wrong with them though they are going to go ahead and replace the Master Cylinder. Anybody else have any problems with the brakes?? Also the dreaded ticking noise is coming from my engine compartment the dealer said it is the injectors but I told him to look at the TSBs. I thought that the TSB only applied to Daks manufactured up to a certain date. Has anybody recently picked theres up and still had the ticking noise??

Thanks

Jeff

bigal31

Is this "Owners club" category new? As of now there is no Owners club on that page.Are they going to change the web page just for us? If so works for me.
Allen

themacguy

Yes to both questions. It appears it will happen soon; won't know for sure until a_j and I get further along I guess... AND, we'll need lots more input from you guys.

Back with a further update soon.

renegade69

club Name

The reason I spelled it that way because that is
a common spelling in computer chat group forums.
It is not because I do not know how to spell.
Below you will find some other examples of
computer slang:

newz, warez, hakz, LMK, KEWL, LOL. Since this a
computer club I figured it would be proper to
use slang. Anyway, enough on that. Somebody get
our name approved so we can move to our new
home!

Later renegade69

themacguy

I'm quite sure we (a_j, me) are doing what we can - we're already in Edmunds cross hairs. They have to set all of this up and I know that Subaru is ahead of us - 'on deck' I guess... It'll take a little time for them (Edmunds) to work out the kinks with the Cougar group as well. They want this to be right the first time.

bigal31

Thanks for the perspective,I had no idea it was that lop sited!Just goes to show,they don't know what they are missing.I mean 27% Ford, come on,I'll never own a Ford again!
Besides I don't want what EVERYONE else has,I'm no follower,(Sorry just venting a little)
Allen-

renegade69

I'm not doubting that, I'm exited about the
new owners area. It wasn't meant as a slam
that someone was dragging thier feet.
Good Luck!

Later renegade69

themacguy

Hey, I didn't mean to infer that at all - I certainly didn't think you were upset or anything. I was just giving a little general update - no problem - I know everyone's anxious to 'localize & vocalize' at the same spot - ASAP! :-))

bpeebles

ref: Perspective (spike50)
If one were to add together the virtually identical trucks from GM (Silverodo+Sierra) and(S10+Sonoma)
The Fords do not come out so 'topheavy'.

Additionally it is known in the industry that Ford adds in FLEET SALES when they release their sales figures. This is how Ford can claim being the "BEST SELLING". As other people have alluded to, many people will NEVER own another Ford after experiencing the first one.

Examples;
**Ever try to have a normal conversation while within 10 feet of a "powerstroke" engine idling?

**What about the front suspension parts that seem to always need to be adjusted/aligned?

gobbleseeker1

I'm new here guys, but I read the forum all the time. As far as the club goes, how about "KotaClub". I don't know, just happened to think of it and thought I'd pass it along. I'm sure you'll come up with a cool name.

4daughters

Thanks for the clarification. I simply put it in parenthesis, (z,) for the lack of my own misunderstanding. On another note, I am looking to put a cap on my Quad but am not sure what manufacturers to go with. I have looked at A.R.E. and Leer. Would anyone know if the listing on the A.R.E. site for the Quad actually are made to fit it? Quite a few appear. ?? Any other manufactures making them? One more thing, how are the beds being aligned? I looked under mine and found no adjustment capabilities, only a single hole alignment for each bolt location. Something simple most likely.

andy_jordan

I don't have experience with A.R.E. caps, but they produce their tonneaus to fit specific models, not just a generic one, so I would guess that the cap would be the same. You can't order one without providing Make / Model / Year so I guess they take all of those things into consideration. Certainly with the tonneaus the design matches the hood, so even if the dimensions are the same between say Ford and Dodge the tops will be different. Incidentally if anyone wants to order before they get their truck you will need your paint code.

Truck sales - hmm, surprised to see Tacoma ahead of Dakota - I am not going to knock the truck, but apparently the perceived reliability advantage beats the perceived safety disadvantage. It will be interesting to see where Tundra fits on the list after a full year of sales. I would also expect to see Dakota move up when the quads start to factor more.

The club - well hopefully early this week, but it will be worth the wait.

rotondim

Before I start rambling I wanted to take the time to say thank you to all the members for providing much needed insight on vehicle options, axle ratios, etc.. The information provided made the decision process that much easier when it came time to order my truck.

I took delivery last Friday evening, March 24th, of a 4x4 CC 4.7 Auto. When I arrived at the dealer I noticed that the bed was misaligned by .5 to .75 inches. I was told that this was a simple thing to rectify. I made an appointment with the dealers body shop for Thursday morning. Upon arrival Thursday evening I noticed that the bed was aligned with the cab, unfortunately the space between the bed and cab varied from 1 inch to .5 inches. I immediately contacted the sales manager who was very understanding and easy to work with. I arrived again Friday evening to find the truck aligned properly. Upon my measurements I noticed that the bed was off center from the tires .25 inches which I believe to be acceptable given the situation and is something I can live with. The body shop manager explained that when the bed is lowered onto the frame that 1 hole in the bed is exactly the same size as the bolt which is tightened to the bed. The bed is then pivoted to align it with the cab. He had to remove the bed and enlarge this hole to better adjust the bed to the cab. The cab was also moved .25 inches to bring everything in line.

For me personally this entire ordeal was very stressful. My suggestion to anyone who runs into this mis-alignment problem is to refuse delivery until the problem is resolved to your satisfaction.

I hope that this issue is getting back to DC because they certainly have a quality issue with these vehicles. Oh, the kicker here is that my vehicle was pulled for an extra week to assure that DC was meeting there quality standards.


Again, thanks for all your help and support.

tpmiller1

Talked to DC CS rep Robert Andrews. He created a Corporate Tracking # for me (which I refer to when next calling rather than VON). There remains a material restriction on the 4.7L. He said they want to get the Quads out as quickly as possible. This translates to "go over the delivered vehicle thoroughly b4 writing the check". He assured me there is no "allocation" problem with my order (1/18).

zonk

With all the problems that have been noted on this subject, it seems that the Dodge quality assurance folks are not doing their jobs real well. Does anyone know what the tolerances are for bed alinement? Seems I also remenber an entry about tire size - that QC's with the bigger tires seem to be having more of a problem with alinement? Is that right?

bookitty

I spoke with Ernie this morning at D/C, and he mentioned reading your post. If D/C is not accepting orders for the 2000 Dodge Quad, it is the first time he has heard of it, and it definitely is not on his screen. Could it be another case of a dealer person not being able to differentiate his derriere from first base? I would think so. Give your dealer sales person the D/C customer service number, a note pad and pencil. Tell him that school is officially in session, and he will be graded for the course. I have not heard one word from the principal of the dealership regarding the grief they caused by running mouth before brain was fully engaged. Sent a copy of the letter and an additional note via certified mail. Sentiments expressed by themacguy are well taken regarding the attitude of some dealers.

Bookitty

bookitty

I haven't been online for the last week, as I have been in Boston asa part of my stint as a consultant. There will be a couple of weeks where I will remain "out of pocket" for a week and then this will be over. My replacement has been appointed, and I will bring him up to speed and then hanging up my spikes for good. I think the site sounds like a wonderful plan, and you have chosen bright people like andy jordan and themacguy who will steer this vehicle in the proper direction. I would be most happy to support the site with postings generated by my rather limited knowledge and unlimited humor. As of now, I live in the nether world of "QUAD WAITERS" and it looks like I shall remain a resident for some time. This may be a way to flex our collective muscles in a positive direction aimed perhaps at some people whom we support monetarily, but do not respond with appreciation of any sort. This is a great and well informed group, and has the nucleus required to produce an intelligent, informative site. A wonderful idea. Please keep me informed (e mail and/or posting) of the progress.

Bookitty

crazycanuck

I just returned a rented Dakota Quad 5.9 4x4 auto.
I was incredibly impressed. I pretty much knew I would be. What I didn't expect is the reaction from the wife. She likes it even more than me! And I think the mutt wants to live in it.
I was set on ordering the 4.7 but now maybe leaning to the 5.9. Appeared to suck fuel a bit though...but it is a v8. Anyone able to share personal insight into the pros/cons to the two engines? I won't be towing much, and would prefer
the better fuel economy if it doesn't sacrifice that lovely kick in the pants of the 5.9 I drove.

I also wanted to express my enthusiasm regarding the proposed new forum. Sounds great....the others have been great help in my quest for the Holy Quad.

R.

lmeyer1

I'm also looking to rent one. Where did you find yours?

Thanks.

crazycanuck

I rented mine from Budget rentals. They had three or four in town here....Green, Bronze and Red.
I live in British Columbia Canada though....hope you are somewhere near. I paid about 50.00 CDN for one day. I hate to say it, but I am going in to rent again on Wednesday for a two day stint.
Just can't get enought of this thing!

R.

andy_jordan

The 5.9 has around 10hp more than the 4.7 (245 vs 235 according to latest figures from Dodge). The torque shows a bigger disparity (335 vs 295) and the torque curve is much smoother for the 5.9. The price you pay is in gas mileage and technology - the 4.7 is the future, the 5.9 is going to be replaced (I believe by a 5.2).

If fuel economy is important then you are unlikely to be taking the revs much above 3500 on a regular basis - and the hp curves are identical up until that point.

Torque really can't be compared - the 5.9 is always higher than the 4.7's peak, but that is a bigger deal for towing than daily driving.

Bottom line - for your kind of application I think that the 4.7 is the way to go.

crazycanuck

I figured the 4.7 would suffice as you suggested, but I haven't driven one....yet. I am concerned about the ticking noises etc...I have read a bit about a TSB fix available. Any comments on the 4.7 concerns re: ticking or other? How has your experience with the 4.7 been so far?

Thanks.
R.

andy_jordan

I love the 4.7. TSB addresses the ticking, not clear why as it comes down to an electrical connection - maybe a bad ground - I dunno.

There has been some talk about froth in the oil filler tube - it doesn't look too bad to me and you can read all of the posts going into the details.

These are all fairly minor 'bugs' which probably speaks well for the engine. Whilst I only have 13,000km (8,000mi) on the truck I can honestly say that the engine has not given me one moment's concern. My biggest bug so far - the 'learning' of the computer that controls the fly-by-wire throttle, it cuts the revs too much when reversing slowly (stick shift) - there is nothing mor embarrassing than stalling whilst everyone is admiring your new truck!!

steve234

While I have been monitoring this forum for a while, this is the first time I have felt the need to say something. I take exception to bpeebles remarks about Fords. I have owned Fords and Dodges both and each have their strengths. The reason Ford sells so many trucks is that they are indistructable. My 91 F150 tows like a dream after 160K of heavy work. I am getting a new DD Quad because nothing lasts forever and the Quad is $7000 less expensive than a Supercrew and better suits my needs. My big regret is that I have yet to find a Dodge dealer that I respect as much as the Green Country Ford dealership in Vinita, OK and I have checked out quite a few.
That being said, I would like to thank you all for the information given over the past few weeks. I have found this forum to be very educational and know a lot more of what to check when my Quad comes in. (Bronze 4x2, 4.7/Auto/3.92lsd/TTowing.)

4daughters

After a day of family outing I gave my Quad a wash. What I did not do was dry it off afterwards and found that the water droplets left their marks everywhere on the hood and fenders. How unsightly! I never experienced this with our Honda Odyssey because it is silver in color and doesn't show these spots. What is a good way to remove them. I tried a little water and rubbing slightly but it seems they have moved right into the paint.

tpmiller1

go to Zaino car care experiences or waxes/polishes under "maintenance". A job for the daughters.

4daughters

Thanks! I will check it out. As for my daughters doing it. Not quite yet, the "my toy" syndrome hasn't worn off yet.

henne

the 5.9 will be replaced by a 5.7, the 5.2 was replaced by the 4.7 and the 3.9 will be replaced by the 3.7. get the point hahahaha

p.s. great to see bookitty agian, been kinda worried about ya

anonymous

I farm have had 6 Toyota,s decided in 97 to try a Dakota. I have had 3 fuel pumps, front differential, a fire, and new ball joints all in less than 60,000 miles plus as a bonus towed 4 times. Of course the dealers denyed that they were having a problem with them. These pickups EAT gas, and as all of them they ARE NOT designed to be used for work! Oh, PS what out for the flimsy air filter holder it warps and lets dirt into your engine also on the manual transmission the emergency brake doesn't hold in reverse (checked out by a pro) need any more????!!!

themacguy

zonk- 7" rims w/235-75R15's are very close to 'equa'l on both sides. 8" a little worse, 9"s = ?

bookitty - glad you're back - we need your input

crazycanuck - a_j as usual is correct. Just buy what feels right to you (after you drive a 4.7/4X4/auto) - if you opt for the 5.9, most of the aftermarket is there waiting for your $$$ right now. You don't have to wait for engine stuff like us 4.7 guys. However, I don't have ANY problems with mine and it has a Nov. build date (and lots of miles already)...

Steve284 - I'm QUITE sure bpeebles didn't mean anything 'bad' about the Fords. I assure you you that he is NOT slamming Fords or anything else. I'm like you, I'm a Chevy / Ford guy too, I'm sure it was his personal experience talking which brings us to...

'Anonymous' - To each his own. We'll just have to agree to disagree. As this is a literate bunch, I'm quite sure we have all done our research (LOADS of it). Mine led me down to the wire on a purchase of either a Dak Quad or a Tundra. Sorry if my choice offends your 'intelligence.' It sounds like the 60k you drove yours wasn't just for commuting though. My experience with Toyotas vs. 'lousy' Dodge products is very close to the same as yours - just reversed. :-)

But I still believe the Toy to be a good product.

catnip2377

Nice to see a fellow british columbian in here. Are you from the city? I have driven both the 5.9 and the 4.7 and the 4.7 should be more than adequate for your application. The best thing for you to do is to test drive a 4.7. If you need any contacts at a dodge dealership, let me know.

renegade69

Howdy,

Looking at the A.R.E. cover. Leadtime is 2 weeks,
lifetime warranty on paint and hardware. The
backside wraps over the tailgate and uses an
excellent locking system to deter thieves.

The other thing I like about it, it is a No Drill
installation and the cover does not come down
and touch the sides of the truck creating those
unsightly rub marks.

As far as $$$$, I found a dealer here who will
sell and install one for $690.00. How does that
compare to your area ?

Some of you other guys, how do you like your
A.R.E. cover?

Later renegade69

renegade69

For some of you guys who have a sprayed in
bedliner. I'm somewhat curious about what you
have seen as far as pricing.

I have a BullHide dealer here and an under the
rail spray will cost $485.00. To me that seems
high. My next option is to drive to KC and
do some shopping there. Your suggestions
welcome.

thanks renegade69

bookitty

Go to their site, and there is a coupon good for a $20.00 discount that can be printed from their site. www.4are.com. I had one of their lids on my Dakota Club cab and was very pleased with it. I ordered one for my Quad. The lid is in, but the Quad's not.

Bookitty

renegade69

must be refreshing thier web site, the
link is broken. Tried other links to them
also. Will try tommorrow.

Thanks bookity

About how much did it run you?

later renegade69

ozark

to themacguy and others. My quad looks to have a problem with the bed alignment as well. It is probably 3/4 to an inch misaligned but mine sticks out from the cab on the left. Other than lousy quality control,getting what you paid for, etc, what is the benefit to getting it fixed? I've already added a bedliner and a Leer tonneau and wonder if the dealer will do more harm than good. I'm inclined to live with it, but wonder what the downside might be.

Gas mileage(4.7 4x4 5spd 3.55) at 2200 miles and with the tonneau is now at 17.3. Having a hard time keeping my foot out of it.

bookitty--glad to see you back, you were missed.

andy_jordan

ARE - I love it, agree with everything that has been said and also add that the lift mechanism is great.

ARE uses a combination of gas strut and steel hinge. This greatly reduces the stress on the truck bed and reduces the risk of damage. I know that sounds silly but the tonneau struts can damage the bed because they exert forces in different directions than was intended. How real is the damage they can cause - no idea, but in my books less force = less risk.

Incidentally, much as I dislike to acknowledge 'flame' posts - I haven't yet found a vehicle that couldn't be driven with the emergency brake on, especially manuals. I also haven't met anyone stupid enough to do it.

stvdman

All cars will show water spots, I dont care what color, just some show more than others, the key is not to use water that leaves those spots. I know most people dont have a choice but I guess I made a wise decision by putting in the BEST water softner (sp) I could find and hooking it into my driveway hose. I finally got my black QUAD done up with a full ZAINOS treatment and WOW. Not only does it look as good as it possibly could but all I have to do now is wash it down with the hoe and take her out for a short "joy" ride and she looks as good as new. The water literally jumps off the truck.

Also anyone seen or heard of Wards Auto. I am thinking of ordering their bed rail and tailgate protector kit, if they make one for the Quad.

Also, side steps, will ones made for the Durango fit on these trucks, there arent too many out there that are listed for the 2000 QUAD Cab.

Also, frame mounted trailer hitch, what can I buy from the aftermarket, the one for a 2000 Dakota or a 2000 Durango, the reason I ask is that noise dampenig tube they put across from frame rail to frame rail on the Quads that is "borrowed" from the durango looks as if it is real close to where a hitch would mount.

Also, "this one time in band camp"

(for all you apple pie fans)

Thanks all, STEVE

stvdman

Although the context I used it in actually works. "took her out for a ..........." I am sorry it really was a speeling error, the spell check didnt get it because hoe is a word. SORRY.

stvdman

n/m

knkresort

Can one of you more car technical people help me understand the modification to the air intake box?

I understand that removing the webbing and replacing the stock air filter with a high flow air filter increases combustion, hence more power. Does it help or hurt fuel economy?

Also, a cold air injection seems counterproductive. I had a Saab Turbo and the turbo preheated the air to a higher temperature than normal intake (i..e. cold air), therefore the combustion was at higher temperature, hence more power. So how does a cold air injection (either an after-market kit system or the pvc pipe/dryer do-it-yourself hose set up) help power?

Finally, if i rarely run full loaded, and spend most of my time on highway commuting, what would be the recommended tire pressure for the Quad, 2wd, 4.7L? I have heard more pressure than 35, but not sure what is best.

Thanks,

Kurt

stvdman

First if your SAAB heated the air before it went into the combustion chamber that was VERY counterproductive. Normally turbocharged and supercharged cars have intercoolers to COOL the air down before it goes into the combustion chamber. This produces MORE power, not the other way around. Cooler air contains more oxygen and will produce more power, not less. Another reason that the intercooler is added is it helps eliminate pre-detonation, the hotter that the air is the more prone it is to detonate prior to the spark plug firing. My t-bird supercoupe had one and it was supercharged.
As far as the cold air induction systems, they do help out in the gas mileage department. I really think "cold air" is just a broad term for opening up the intake tract to allow more air in while pulling air from an area where the air is not as hot or has been heated by the engine. If you are pulling air into the intake from the engine compartmentthen the air is warm or even hot, if you can pull the air in from the fender or front of the car it is cooler. Also another trick for serious horsepower freaks is to wrap the engine exhaust in a kevlar type of wrap to keep underhood temps down, every 10 degrees cooler the engine bay is you pick up about 1 horsepower. Also thicker exhaust headers do about the same thing.
Basically colder/more air into the engine is good for mileage/performance. Hot/warm in is bad for performance/mileage. Hope this "cleared" the air a little. Steve.

mwolak

renegade69: I'm getting the A.R.E. LSII for my Quad. From the dealer listing on the A.R.E. website, I called and got prices ranging $667 to $690.

I'm located about 20 miles north of Pittsburgh and the A.R.E. web site listed 3 dealers within 33 miles of my zip.