Dodge Dakota Accessories and Modifications

victx

Sounds like you are trying to plug the changer in while the ignition is on? I'd try this with the ignition off. Maybe even disconnect the battery while you make all the electrical connections. The truck probably doesn't like you trying to hot-swap the changer.

The 'no bus' message sounds like the head unit cannot communicate with the changer through the bus connection (your 15ft cable).

ohc_baby

I've replaced both the changer and cable separately and under warrantee, and I get the same 'no bus' error regardless of ignition on/off and battery disconnected or not... Nothing makes me more mad than relying on someone else's help with vehicle repair, especially when it's a 2001 and I KNOW that the wrench-monkeys at the local dealership don't have a clue. This really hurts. Thanks for the help thus far.

spike50

Recently changed one of each on my '00 QC as a test. Used a Philips Blue Vision 55 / 65 W "capsule" in the front and a generic 50 W halogen bulb for the backup light. No difference in either case. The factory bulbs must in the same wattage / light output range. If one wants to make a difference - you'll have to go with higher wattage bulbs (80 / 100 W) or maybe HID's

stnick

Anyone that may be interestd, I have posted some photos of my 00 QC on a page that shows roll top cover and bed rug. Thanks Stnick

http://www.geocities.com/plainsranger/index.html

bikenut

I ordered my Dak 4.7, CC, 5sp, 4X4 LSD AGU on 12-4, and it was build yesterday. 2-3 weeks til delivery. Uhgg. Anyway. Saw both spray in shops above. Duratech was shiny with little blobs on it, and it appeared a little gooey. Durateck dealier told me it has much more UV protection in it than Line-x, and won't chalk out. The Line-x looked better, but the dealer wanted to add $100 to the $465 regular price to add a spay in protectant that would keep it black for 2-3 years. Anyone use Duratech? Is the Line-x guy trying to screw me? I also put this post in the P/U forum under Bedliners, but I wanted to hear opinions from y'all, too.
Thanks, Bikenut

tuvtest

I can't speak for the long term look of Line-x, but my last truck had a Rhino Linings spray-in w/o any extra "protectant" on it and looked just fine after about 8 yrs. I believe all the spray-in liners use similar compounds in the liner itself, just different mixes. I didn't bother with any extra "protectant" on my Line-x. I've never heard of, or seen a Duratech liner.

ron35

I have a 2000 Dak with the upgraded Mopar radio/cassette with CD changer controls and a CD changer. I would like to upgrade to the Mopar in-dash radio/cassette/CD player. Is there anyone out there who might be selling one that they have replaced.

ayrow

Ron35,

I might take you up on that offer. I ordered my QC (still have not gotten it yet) with the CD player in the dash thinking I should've gotten the changer instead.

Keep in touch with me and we'll see what we can do.

ohc_baby

The 2001 and 2000 radios are nothing alike. Also, the 2001 radios require a different changer and cables, so everyone be careful. It had me messed up for a good week, as MOPAR hasn't updated their accessory sheets with this part number discrepancy.

scottieeck

a very pretty truck you have there stnick! the bed rug is a nice touch. what brand is it?
also, are the bed rails integral to the cover, and do they have a web site?
drive safe!
scottie

stnick

Hi scottie, thanks for the compliments. To answer yor question, the rails are by Bushwacker in Calif. They are seperate from the Pace Edwards roll top. The Bedrug is also a Pace Ed product. I like it better than the plastic bed liners I've had in the past. It hasn't had much hard use yet, but it seems tough and is guarranteed water, oil, and gas proof. I don't have web addresses, but PaceEdwards.com will probably get you there. Love the truck. Thanks, Nick.

96g11

I stumbled on a Dakota web site, accessories, parts and some pretty cool links.
www.smokindakota.com
worth checkin out.

waynesan

Has anyone purchased this theft deterrent device for their Dakota or have experience with it otherwise? I'm thinking of dumping my steering wheel lock and purchasing one; I just wanted to tap this board's collective wisdom prior. Thanks.

amend1

Hello to one and all. I need to pick some of your brains as it seems that the best information comes from you guys/gals. I've mounted a winch in the rear of my truck. Does anyone know where I can get a bumper mountable (similar to trailer connector)two prong, heavy duty electrical connector, the size you would use for, say, jumper cables, preferably in a small box type unit with a cover. I've seen them on snow plows but nobody seems to have one. I want to be able to "plug" the winch in and out. I have already run a 4 gauge cable to the rear of the truck. I just don't like the connector I've used. Thanks!!

tuvtest

Grainger has some high current connectors that may be what your looking for under the guise of forklift/battery/charger connectors. If you haven't heard of them, they have stores nationwide and online at Grainger.com.

ford_bii

I just got an ARE LS II fiberglass cover for my quad, and I'm concerned about the paint rubbing off of the tailgate where the rubber seal hits it. Does anybody know where to get a tailgate protector for the quad?? I can't seem to find one anywhere, even on dodge's site.

jimt

Regarding electrical connectors there are battery jumper cables sets that are hard wired to your battery and the long cables plug into a connector mounted out side of the vehicle. These may be adaptable to your needs. Also look at available plug connector accessories for boat trolling motor applications as these motors have gotten powerful requiring high current draw and heavy wiring. Most of these due well in outside environment, due to design for marine use. Good luck, JimT

96g11

Here are a couple of different designs, just pick the one you like.
www.bakliner.com smooth texture plastic
www.bushwacker.com diamond plate plastic
www.dezee.com smooth plastic
I got mine through www.4wheelparts.com I ended up buying the bakliner kit which covers the entire bedsides and tailgate.

amend1

Gentlemen, thank you for the information regarding my plug inquiry. I shall research same posthaste. As usual, a wealth of information.
Bill

bobs5

http://www.macneilauto.com/Notape.html

Has anyone tried this or a similar product? ie:ventvisor,etc.

If so, which brand and how do you like them.

Thanks

Bob

ron35

Bob - I have had the MacNeil weather flectors on my 2000 Dak for about a year now and I really like them, they are clear as opposed to the smoke tint on most of the others. I believe this helps with visibilty. I have had the vent visors on my 2 previous trucks and I prefer the weather flectors.

Ron 35

bobsyvee

I've had them on my QC since June. They're not really clear, but they don't obscure your seeing past them. Installation takes about 1 minute each for the fronts, and 1.5 minutes each for the rears. They fit up inside the window channels, as opposed to being stuck on the outside of the door. I also got one of the neato hula girls from MacNeil for the dash.

bobs5

ron35,bobsyvee
Thanks for sharing your experiences with the weatherflectors.
Think I will get this type as oppose to the stick on type.

mtrogstad

I finally ordered my Quad last Tuesday. Got everything I wanted. Since you guys answered my questions about options, I thought you could also answer some about accessories for my new toy.

1. I was probably going to go for a spray in liner. Any suggestions for brands?

2. I am also looking at getting a roll& lock cover. Is the Pace Edwards the best for the money? Is install something that should be left for a progessional? Do they rattle when you are driving? Also, is it difficult to install a lock on the tailgate?

3. What are your opinions on the bug deflectors available for the Quad? Is the protection they provide, really worth the money. Personally, I don't think they look very good on the Dakota with the broken hood-line.

Opinions would be greatly appreciated. Also, I know a delivery checklist has been posted before, but I can't find it. Could someone please repost the info?

slickwilliedj

i just ordered an e.g.r bodyguard no drill for my 01/q/c.i looked at the rest but found this style and brand to be exceptional.

zidctlr

has anyone upgraded the speakers and added an amp to the 8 speaker infinity system? Also DC is now offering a 3 and 4 disk in-dash cd changer. Wish they would have offered this when i ordered mine. Has anyone put a subwoofer in their quad?

ohc_baby

Well, I don't see the 3 and 4-disc changers as factory options, but I've seen them in other vehicles. I got the in-dash CD w/ changer controls, which I ended up loving and really think it's the way to go. I have a 6-disc changer under the driver's side rear seatback, where the jack is but on the other side. The options I consdered were:

3 disc changer - The in-dash magazine looks awful in the 3-disc setup, plus I'd prefer the 4.

4-disc in-dash (Dodge) - The Caravan, Neon, Intrepid, and others have a spot below the head unit for a dedicated in-dash changer, but the Dakota doesn't. No good way to mount it either, as it's face-loading and difficult to mount anywhere that you can reach.

4-disc in-dash (Chrysler) - The Stratus Coupe and Chrysler LHS and others have a 4-disc in the head unit, but the illumination is red, not green. It will fit and work with the 2001s, but look horrible.

6-disc changer - The RBN and RBK (cassette and CD decks) have in-dash changer controls and I love my RBK. I can put the mix CD's I make in the back and still load individual CDs into the face when I want something specific. Also, you can get 2 Alpine magazines for $29 that you can keep handy and swap in bulk so you're not trying to replace them while driving.

BTW, be sure to double-check your changer part numbers as the 2001s have a different communication standard. If you plug in a pre-2001 changer, your odometer will flash 'No buS' and gauges will die - not good.

tuvtest

The infinity system comes with a 120w amp already. It is located behind the passenger kick panel.

tuvtest

For those of you who, like me, didn't read the complete description in the Accessories Catalog. The "Spare Tire Lock" doesn't really lock the tire. All it does is replace the winch tube with a keyed shaft to inhibit lowering without a key. I mistakenly thought it was a shaft locking the wheel to the frame somehow to prevent theft. Guess it off to the Hardware store for some chain.

biglucy

I don't think the Mopar "tire lock" prevents someone evil from getting under the truck and just yanking the cable winch down and/or cutting the cable. I had my spare stolen a number of years ago in this fashion and drove around for months until I realized my spare was gone. I use a 4.5 foot peice of heavy chain wrapped around the tire rim and underbody rail with a heavy duty lock. Make sure the lock has a rubber protector to keep the keyhole clean. I know it sounds primitive, but it works and costs about 12 dollars.

tuvtest

Yah, That's what I did on my last two trucks. When I saw the listing for a spare tire lock in the accessories pamphlet, I ordered it before reading the detailed description in the catalog. My own fault. It's not totally useless,just moderately useless.

mailman54

Biglucy: Check "Quick Lock" at SpareTirelock.com

biglucy

Thanks mailman,

I've never seen that gadget before. You've got to admit we have a wealth of info on these discussion groups. Unfortunately, I've already got my lock and chain, but I know where to go if I change my mind. One thing I've experienced with "naked" locks - like the Quick Lock has, the keyhole can get crudded up so fast that you can't even get your key in the lock. That's why I recommend a lock with a rubber keyhole protector, or a good bit of grease or duct tape might work also.

mailman54

Biglucy: The Quick Lock has a plastic cap that fits over the keyhole, I've got one.

slickwilliedj

has anyone installed a poplock tailgate lock? what the correct part number? how do like it?

egaquaman

I installed a poplock last month. Seems to be operating fine, but I use it a lot and I find that half the time I don't bother putting it on (it's a bit of a pain in the [non-permissible content removed]). Be careful not to scratch your paint.

ibhottubn

hi all,

ordered a fully loaded slt 4x2 white/gray quad last nite. i have benefitted greatly from the experiences of all of you. anyone able to tell me, who manufactures the gull wing tonneau cover & where to purchase it from, besides the dealer ??

thanks,

tom in st louis !!!!!!!!!!!11

triple_deke1

Does anyone know where I can get bed caps made from plastic for my 2001 CC?? I had
the bright tread on my old truck but since I dont have any chrome I wanted to get them
in black.

Thanks
TD

slickwilliedj

try www.bushwacker.com they offer bedrail caps for the q/c that are black ,plastic and have the tread pattern on this on site is also a dealer directory per your zip. hope this helps . i'v gotton prices from $59.00-84.00 for a 2pc set...

triple_deke1

Thanks for the info!!

TD

ford_bii

Anybody have a recommendation for a bedmat for the Quad cab? I saw some ones at Pep Boys for $50 that said they can be trimmed to fit, but if there is one better out there I want to know about it. I'm having trouble locating one.

bpeebles

(ford_bii) I have a "Rubber Queen" bedmat and really like it.

• Cargo stays put
  
• it is easilly removed to hose it off for cleaning
  
• it does not mar the finish like those plastic bathtubs they call liners.
  

biglucy

I too dislike the "plastic bathtubs" for two reasons. 1-They'll break your knee caps when you try to crawl up on one, and 2-stuff slips around like a greased hog. I prefer the ole $69.00 rubber bed mat that can be ordered anywhere you can buy the "bathtub", custom fit for your quad cab. Just be careful where you buy it, the shop where I got mine charged me $50.00 for installation. {8*O

donamy

I have a J-Mark, 1/2 inch thick of no slip protection. In my previos truck I too had a "bathtub". Thought I would solve the sliding problems by installing a rubber queen inside of that also. Guess what, the mat slid around inside the "tub. I now only have the mat and works like it should. I got mine at a local accessory shop. It is application fit so there is now trimming and fits like a glove.

biglucy

Just joking about that installation charge!!!

ibhottubn

did some research, seems the guy that designed the fold-a-cover has started a his own company. advance cover is the new & improved fold-a-cover,
anyone have an advance cover & have any experience with the new unit ???

thanks,

tom !!!!!!!!

ibhottubn

where did you find this bug guard ???

scottieeck

I've followed the link for the weathertech window guards, but have not been able to order. is it neccessary to use the 800 number? I've had no luck ordering online. any help?
scottie

ayrow

I have done a bunch of research on the Advance Cover for my new Quad cab. I have also spent the last hour researching the do-it-yourself Dupli-color spray-in truck bed liner, available at Wal-mart and other Auto Parts stores.

The Advance Cover is a fantastic product. I wanted something that would lock, not be soft enough to cut through, and would be easily removed if the enitire bed was needed. I also want something that my wife can use easily that wouldn't require any snaps or velcro. It is the only cover I could find that did all of this.
The only drawback is that it is rather expensive. www.autobahn.com has it for sale for just over $500.00
Not bad when you consider what the fiber-glass tops are going for, I suppose.

The other thing that I have wanted to do is put in a spray-in liner. At $350, Linex seems to be the best way to go. However, Dupli-color has a similar spray-in liner available that, for under $100, should do the same thing. It is a do-it-yourself thing that requires a day's effort.

Anybody have any experience with either of these?

sds1248

we got our Dakota last October and just added a black carbon fiber dash kit--looks great. my husband installed it with no problems. we got it on-line at www.wooddash.com--they just warned us to have have a clean surface before firmly attaching the pieces. I think they also have the stainless steel grille inserts on their site for some models. the dash was a really nice interior mod.