Thanks for the post spike. At $299 its a pretty good quote for me (Rhino Liner). I guess I'm just having a hard time thinking about them sanding the heck out of the bed before the spray process! Again thanks for the reply. marellano
You said you did not see any difference in mileage with the air box mods. I can think of 2 reasons. First, did you modify the exhaust yet? More air in needs more air out. Second, as I learned with the cool sound of the new intake I have been "hittin it" a little more often. After the novelyt wore off I did notice an increase in mileage at steady highway speed. I still love that sound though. As a side benefit, I like the look of the modified intake and suspect cooler underhood temps will result by allowing more air to flow over the top and around the intake manifold. Just a guess, time will tell. The k&n filter is a must to take adavantage of all those intake mods! But you gotta admit the pvc intake does look pretty cool.
I hope everyone caught your indexing remark. I've been doing as much of it as I can - I'm sure lots of us have. Why don't we let them e:mail us with their faves and maybe simplify this somewhat? I believe it's potentially the most important (and impressive) source of info that the owners group can distribute. It should be an entire topic (or folder) that would fit in something like this:
--These are examples ONLY (do NOT let your wife see this list - my e:mail address is subject to change, instantly!)-- Sooooo,
DaQuadders (or whatever our name is) FAQS Powertrains Engines Trannies Rear ends 4X4 specialty area Dealer issues Good Bad Sue-ees! Maintenance General TSB's Fit / finish Perf. mods that work (yours) or don't (mine) Odd 'thingies' specific to Quad (our finds) Other(s) Site links including links, short descriptions and maybe a shortcut 'path' to the Quad stuff Pix Owner's trucks Our dogs (even the deceased ones) Our kids Babes (mmmm, I meant as in 'kids' of course) Beaters (our first or favorite cars), etc. Bikes Boats Favorite area drives, maps Hobby stuff Scars & wounds Wive(s) Note: #4-11 are alphabetical (pol. correct) Personal area (attached to above) Lies Damned lies Statistics Etc. Yada, yada, yada
Just sort of fits with the other stuff - whatever that may be... :-P And, of course the above is just to stimulate the ol noggin a bit.
gallen1586 I have the same cover, love it so far. The Dodge cover is made by Fold-A-Cover. I called them and they referred me to a distributor in Michigan. Paid $530, dealers quoted me $730-$760. The highest was at the dealer that sold me the truck, the lowest was the one was the one that told me to take a hike. Go figure. BTW, did you install the rivets for the side rails? They said over time that they tend to bow out at the ends. It has been on for a month with no problems. I will install them only if I have to. Also, I stuck a piece of 3/4" thick foam tape to the bottom of the cover where it hits the tailgate and front of box, not a drop yet.
96g11 I hope to get a k&n before our trip next month. I would also like to install a flomaster muffler but am receiving some resistance on the home front. My wife remembers how I used to talk about my 70' Chevelle with headers and straight pipes. She's afraid I'll wake up everybody. I'm sure it can't be any worse than bike every morning.
gsx750f & gallen1586, I’ve been thinking about getting the fold-a-cover, but haven’t found one to look at. I’ll be needing to remove the cover frequently and don’t want to go with a soft cover. How easy is it to remove? (Folded up it will probably take too much bed space.)
Zonk, I have not driven on interstates yet just some major 4 lane hi-ways where the average speed is 70-75. At 55 you have a lot of kick left, but at 70 not much kick left you still have accelartion. I have drove a Nissan truck 4cyl. for 15 yrs. the 3.9L seems to have 3x the power of the Nissan. Bobemoto, The cover takes up about 18 inches of bed behind the cab when folded up. You can remove the cover with a 5/16 nut driver in about two min. there are two mounting blocks on the first hinged section behind the cab that attach to the side of the bed that have to come off. gsx750f, I paid $620 for my cover from the dealer i purchased the truck from and it comes with the 3yr. 36,000 mile warranty. I did install myself and did put one pop rivet in the end of each rail. Sounds like you got a good deal on your cover.
First the kitchen faucet gave up the ghost. On the way to the hardware store, the garage door came down on my new QC. 2500 miles it has! 3 nice dings in the lid. Who was it that suggested we keep something in the glove box to take when we get the first ding?
I have been listening to the owners of a fold a cover in this forum. Does anyone have the phone number for the company, looking for a distributor in Houston. I am debating between A.R.E Z series topper, Pace Edwards roll top, and the fold a cover. How strong is the fold a cover. Not that I want to stand on it but is it stronger than the roll top? Also how user friendly is it to fold back to the cab?
Wanted to thank you on that explanation = Post #300. I'm interested in more info on your comment that a service dept. has to covering about 80% of the dealership's overhead. Besides installing accessories on the new vehicle, it seems that most work is done under warranty for the first 2 years or so. The dealer must be getting reimbursed for that work, how does that work? Maybe there is some aspect to that dealer / factory transaction that makes the dealer more inclined to "not hear" your problems (buzzes, clunks, ticking) the first few times. Any ideas?
Ernie says I went to "frame" yesterday and will be finished today (4-20). I'll check with him today once the sun comes up. But you have to be getting close too. To bad we can't get up early Sunday morning and look out in the yard and see a Quad. Years ago I'd do that (eggs) for my two kids, but now I'd have to fight them for the Quad and they can run faster than me.
It takes less than a minute to fold the cover back and secure it the stacked position. As was mentioned earler, it would take a couple of minutes to completely remove. It's very easy to handle with just one person since only weighs 50 lbs. max. I would mark the locations of the clamps with tape when you remove them so that they can be installed in the same position later.
Now the bad news. While on my way to work today, I got struck from behind by a Mustang, car not horse. Dakota damage, 2" round area on bumper is scuffed up and bumper is bowed in about an 1" in the middle. New bumper and I'm done. Mustang damage, front bumper slight damage, grill and right side lights gone, hood folded in half like cardboard, radiator history. In other words, totaled. Thankful for those high bumpers on the those 4x4's. I know it could have been much worse but it sucks anyway.
I just ordered a 4x2 Dakota qc, 4.7l, 5sp, SLT plus, w/ tire & handling group and 2tone paint last Friday 4/14. I love the looks of the truck and think matching fender flares for the lower tone would only enhance it. I would like to get some information concerning fender flares for the truck. The dealer didn't offer these to me. Would it be better to get the flares from the dealer or buy them myself and have them painted and installed. I expect the dealer will be somewhat more expensive. I'm fairly handy and think I could install them myself with adequate instructions. I noticed in a recent post that with the flares installed, adding mudflaps is more difficult. Input would be appreciated.
I really enjoy reading all the posts here. I too chose the 3.9 with the auto because I didn't want to try a new engine. Since 1988 I have purchased 5 new Dakotas and the last 4(90CC 93CC 97CC and 00QC have all had the 3.9 auto 3.55 2WD with standard size tires and wheels. In 93 we traded my wifes car for Dakota and since then we have always had 2 of them. We now have the 97 and 00. I have never used them for towing and won't be in the future but have had some very hefty loads of building supplies on them from Home Centers more than 80 miles from home and the V6 handles loads very well. We have driven them in the Rockies, Smokies. and whatever is in Oregon and Washington and have had plenty of power. I also think that they have all the power you could ever need. Our Quad only has 200 miles on it but it seems to perform just like the last 3 as far as I can tell.(There was a huge difference between 90 and 93 because of change from TB EFI to MP EFI- Much improved) Was glad to see the post that the computer milage is also accurate on the Quad. I checked first tankfuls on the 97 and found the were always right on so that is what I use now. My 97 was cleared 1565 miles back when I changed the oil and it now reads 20.6 MPG. This is just normal around home, driving 10 miles to and from town but no long trips. Quad shows 18.8 in 206 miles but have done a lot of messing around with it so far. Will report more on its MPG later. I tried the Quad on the passing at 55 and found to get a lot of kick out of it you need to make it downshift out of overdrive. It will probably do this anyhow if you are pushing it. There is plenty of power there you just need to let it know you want to use it. Zonk the 88 Dakota I had was the 2.2 so I know your concerns. I kept it 18 months and went for the 90CC 3.9 .
If you've ordered the tire and handling group, on either a sport or slt, you get the fender flares as part of that package. I think that the truck looks even better with them.
grad57 - Thanks for the info; I, too, like to read the posts. It's good to hear some positive things about the 3.9L. Just makes my decision a little harder.
checked out the site first time it was posted. They are sending me info. Anyone have one installed? I got to beleive DC will add this as an option in the future. I think they even have a week or so of spring and fall in Canada.
Sorry you want get the flares with the tire & handling group on the 4x2. I bought mine from my dodge dealer and installed them myself. They are real easy to put on. They come pre-painted the color you order. Every thing you need to put them on comes with the flares. I think I paid about $230.
gallen1586 is correct. They do not come on the 4x2 Sport or SLT as Standard. You can purchase them through the parts dept. I paid $255.00, wasn't as lucky as g...86. Takes about an hour to put all 4 on. All you need is a 1/4 drive ratchet and a #12 torx bit. Holes are pre-drilled on the truck.
gallen 1586 and renegade69: the price you got for your fender flares was that for all 4 or a pair? My dealer quoted me $555 when I ordered the quad! I haven't looked around or checked with any other dealers yet but will. I really like the truck with them and could install them myself but the price I'm being quoted is ridiculous. I think the dealer is trying to screw me on them. I'm going to call around to a couple more W. NY dealers and see what they quote.
Hi Everyone. Go to your Dealers showroom and find the rack where they display all of the free literature you can take with you and pick up the red book that says DODGE ACCESSORIES FROM MOPAR. it will have a picture of a red Dakota and Ram on the front. I shopped 6 Dealers in my area and 3 of them sent me home with this book on my first visit. This book has 63 items in it and Flares are item 18. In my area most dealers will discount from this book and install free if you buy the truck from them. This is how I had the Flares and Bed Rails I got installed. They done a good job for me here.
On the weight of personal testimonies, I guess I stand corrected on the flares "always" being part of the tire / handling (T/H) group. Assumed, again, that the T/H package always came with the 31x10.5R15 tires on 15x8 wheels. And because these are stick out past regular fender, the package would naturally have the flares.
What size tires/wheels come with the T/H group on a 4x2 sport or slt?
One of the earlier message indicated Quad sales were "soft" and the writer anticipated increased advertising for the quad and possible incentives. Apparently Dodge didn't get the word as of last night www.4adodge.com shows a $100 increase in the base price of 4x2 and 4x4 Quads. I would think sales are stronger than regional trends may indicate. Rick
I will pick up my 4x4 SLT, 4.7L, 5sp, 3.55 with most everything except T & H pkg. this afternoon. Ordered on 3/21, delivered on 4/21. Not bad, and this is not a large dealer, probably average. I guess I'm just lucky. I'll post later on my impressions. :-)
Thanks for pointing out the fender flares in the accessory book. I've got to be blinder then a bat not to have seen it listed there the umpteen times I looked it over. I got the book the second trip to the dealer and looked it all over. Oh well now I can point to it when I go to the dealer and say gimme!
I ordered a QC on 3-25 (4x2, 4.7, Auto, 3.92 SLT+). Dealer says 6-8 weeks. Called yesterday, still in BX status. Talked with the dealre and he says that he has several and they are suppose to be built the 3rd week of May, get to dealer by June 10. Thanks to this forum, I was not surprised to hear this. Not upset or anything, I just expect it to be worth the wait. Besides, I need time to decide about the flares. Love the look, but if my list of accessories grows any more, my wife won't get the new couch I promised. Anyone know how to mount a cot in that short bed?
I don't agree that qc delays happen via incorrectly entered orders. I got the order confirmation sheet that came from DC to the dealer faxed to me on the day I ordered and it was in order.
My honest opine on the reasons for delays is a combination of restriction for various specific parts and just plain luck.
I finally got good news today - dealer called and I'm officially D1, build date of 5/11 and ship date of 5/16. My order date was 2/10.
I HAVE A '98 DAKOTA CLUBCAB SLT 5.2 5SPD,3.55LSD,THAT I LOVE,BUT NOT ENOUGH ROOM FOR FAMILY(RECENTLY MARRIED). I HAVE THE FENDER FLARES ON MINE. DODGE HAS TWO LISTING'S FOR FLARE'S ONE IS AS A PACKAGE (ALL 4 W/ HARDWARE)AND INDIVIDUALLY. PRICE WILL DEPEND ON DEALER, I HAVE FRIEND'S THAT WORK FOR A DODGE DEALER PARTS DEPT.
I HAD THE BED SPRAYED W/ARMA COATING SIMILAR TO RHINO, I WILL DO IT AGAIN WHEN I GET A QUAD. IT WAS 350. WITH LIFETIME WARRANTY.
TONNEAU COVER- I HAVE A GAYLORD 1PC FIBERGLASS, I HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH WATER LEAK'S FROM WASHING OR RAIN. I HAD IT PAINTED TO MATCH WAS $850.00, WITH A LITTLE CARE I CAN HAVE IT OFF BY MYSELF IN 15 MIN. ( I'M 5'7") I HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
SORRY FOR GOING ON I LOVE MY DAKOTA AND HAVE ENJOYED READY THE INFORMATION FROM EVERYONE!!!!
I HAVE 49,000 MILES ON A TRUCK I SPECIAL ORDERED FEB/98, REC 3/98. WILL PROBABLY HAVE TO ORDER A QUAD TOO!!!
At first I was under the impression that the flares and the body moulding that I ordered were the same. Esp. when looking at the dodge dakota marketing flyer and seeing photos with and w/out fender flares, and the only option I see for ordering is for body mouldings. But I'm paying $64 for the moulding from the factory and everyone here seems to be quoting prices much higher, so I'm confused. Someone, please explain the difference.
side moulding is just side protection,from door ding's etc., flares are fender flares.ihad a detail co. put after market side mldg on my '98, at that time dodge didn't offer side mldg on the DAKOTA.
eagleeye13 - You're right. The factory side mouldings are a long horizontal strip of rubber/plastic and are positioned low on the doors to keep door digs to a minimum. The fender flares can be added later and can be seen in the Mopar truck accessory catalog for $255/set of four. Many individuals have gotten a lower price from their dealers than the $255 and have stated that they have easily mounted these themselves. One caution was that when you're positioning them in preparation to drill/screw them on was they they will scrap the paint where they overlap the fender.
Regarding the allocation of Quad units and its current positioning in the market... I did not mean to imply that Dodge would be offering incentives on the Quad. That's the take I got from a dealer friend about 60 miles north of Detroit.
Admittedly, the "Detroit market" is NOT representative of all regions across the country. In fact, as I develop sales and service training programs for all of the "big three," we're very careful to contact dealers outside the local market (usually in places such as Indianapolis and Kansas City).
It distresses me that the further from Detroit you are, the greater the liklihood of long waits. I ordered the Quad 5.9 Sport with all options except steering wheel radio controls on April 3. It's scheduled to go on the line early next week, and shipped out on April 26. I haven't checked back with DC since early iin the seek, but it appears that there are no restrictions and everything is "go."
As for market positioning, my personal feeling is that Dodge has a good "niche" with the Quad. It's a remarkable vehicle in that you've got something that's easily "garageable," yet can be had with the "guts" of a full-size.
Regarding dealer allocations, you're right! It's not entirely fair. While the "big three" here in Detroit will NEVER admit it, allocations of fast-moving, high-gross vehicles are aften influenced by the individual dealer's willingness to "jump through the factory hoops." That is, "If you can get 10 more Intrepids over the curb this month, I'll give you five more Quads."
The "car business" is changing dramatically. The factory is gaining more and more control over dealer franchises, and the principle of allocation is based on bottom-line for the big boys.
I know that's not a comforting response to your post, but it's REAL.
THANKS for your take on the Mopar folding tonneau! For my purposes, it sounds like the way to go!
While I can see that the full fiberglass units are more "fashionable," I have neither the time nor inclination to lift off one of those monsters simply so that I can run down to the greenhouse and pick up a few trees!
First, let me stand corrected and offer an explanation of "Fixed Coverage."
Fixed Coverage is the ability of a dealership Parts/Service operation to cover dealership expenses for all but VEHICLE-RELATED expenses (i.e., the physical building, lights, heat, etc. for the ENTIRE dealership). The national average is about 75% coverage, though 80% is the benchmark.
The Service Department performs work in three basic areas:
1. Warranty Work -- Reimbursed by the factory on a standardized "time/rate" (i.e., "You'd better get this job done at our rate unless you want the cost to come out of your own pocket!)
2. Internal Work -- Primarily reconditioning of used vehicles for resale.
3. Customer-Pay Work -- The sale of parts and service that is not covered by the factory and profits come out of the customer's pocket.
That said, let's talk about those "buzzes, clunks and ticking" you experience during the warranty period.
They're NOT listed as reimbursible under standard time/rate maintenance and repair procedures by the factory. HOWEVER, the dealership should have a pre-determined "discretionary" amount from the factory to cover "customer satisfaction" issues.
In other words, if your dealer REALLY cares about you as a customer, and REALLY wants to sell you another truck in another 3-5 years, he'll dip into that fund or dip into his own pocket to assure your satisfaction.
My suggestion on what problems you might be experiencing is to sidestep the Service Manager and ask to speak with the Dealer Principal. Explain the situation, be very frank about your feelings, and about your expectations of the product.
If your dealer is a good one, and if he values repeat business, he'll respond.
is the excellent information provided by posters re: accessories and the time to make changes. So far I've dropped the molded mud flaps because of rigidty and potential breakage if backing into snow banks and the fiberglass tonneau, as the the folding cover seems to be a lot easier to remove if necessary to haul stuff higher than the bed. Thanks to all and keep posting.
Not to hog the space here, but I have another question. Has anyone purchased the Mopar rear floor tray? If so, what did you pay and how is it working for you?
Unfortunitely I didn't order fog lights when I ordered the QC. As you know, there are impressions in the air dam for them, and their absence really detracts from the appearance of the truck. Looking closely, I see an electrical connector in the bottom of the air dam, wrapped with a plastic tie. Is this connector intended for the fog lights? Also, does this mean it is necessary to either buy the dash pull out switch from the dealer, or wire to a separate switch wired through the firewall. The fog lights really seem to be worthless, and I would prefer to buy driving lights that really work; however, does this mean I will have to wire after market lights through the firewal? Appreciate help! Bill
Bill- Most car manufacturers use standard wiring harnesses that include all options. The fog lights are already wired I am sure. You could find the wires at the headlight switch and install your own after-market switch, or buy the factory switch and plug it right in. There is a relay under the hood in the relay/fuse box for the fog lights. You will have to plug in standard Bosch type rely as well in order to use the factory wiring.
You're absolutely RIGHT on the 4WD answer! It's very clear that you have a solid technical background! Once I thought about it, there was perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
What convinced me of that truth even more was "practical application." Before I took delivery of the Ram, I had a Chevy S-10 4WD with LSD. As we were building our home here north of Detroit, the snows were heavy, but that little truck managed it no problem.
Then, I had this "big bad Ram." We had a paltry 8 inches of snow on the ground with mud underneath... I needed to pull the truck around the house and back to the barn... Threw it into "4-high" and it couldn't do the job! Stuck, and VERY disappointed with the performance!
Shifted to "4-low" and managed to get the truck unstuck... But it was certainly an eye-opener on the value of LSD. It's not just something that helps prevent tire-squeals while pulling out on the highway in 2WD... It's the difference between "4WD" and "True 4WD."
You're absolutely RIGHT on the 4WD answer! It's very clear that you have a solid technical background! Once I thought about it, there was perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
What convinced me of that truth even more was "practical application." Before I took delivery of the Ram, I had a Chevy S-10 4WD with LSD. As we were building our home here north of Detroit, the snows were heavy, but that little truck managed it no problem.
Then, I had this "big bad Ram." We had a paltry 8 inches of snow on the ground with mud underneath... I needed to pull the truck around the house and back to the barn... Threw it into "4-high" and it couldn't do the job! Stuck, and VERY disappointed with the performance!
Shifted to "4-low" and managed to get the truck unstuck... But it was certainly an eye-opener on the value of LSD. It's not just something that helps prevent tire-squeals while pulling out on the highway in 2WD... It's the difference between "4WD" and "True 4WD."
has anyone else noticed that you cant see the center trays and cup holders on the floor at night. is this aggravating to any one else? has anyone figured out a solution like an after market light to dimly illuminate the trays from under the dash instead of having to turn on the overhead map light? am i being too picky?
I found a new trout stream this weekend and it had some nice creek-side roads and the gravel seemed pretty solid although a little wet so the truck took its first steps to becoming a troutmobile. Before you know it I was spinning tires. The hard fist sized rock turned into a wet rock tumbler mess and I was sure I was stuck. 4-high just made it worse. Slipped into 4-lo while already mentally calling the tow truck. Then the uphill tire caught and I started moving. I saved at least half of the $242 limited slip option with less than 4200 mile on the truck. If you get into places (can be almost anywhere) that you need to get out of, the limited slip is highly recommended.
I love this truck. I am learning how to drive it. It weighs more and is bigger than previous Nissan PU and trusty Cherokee so it is not quite as nimble. But oh the purr of that 4.7 and the cadillac ride. And it is still a truck. :>)
(towcrazy2) You are correct on all points about LSD being the VERY BEST INVESTMENT on a rear-wheel-drive truck. (2WD or 4WD)
One correction on your statement: Once I thought about it, there was perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
Actually, when in 4WDlock you have "2WD" (1front + 1rear)... Add LSD to the rear and you get "3WD" (1front + 2rears)
At NO time do the fronts get 'locked' together because this would create a situation that is impossable to steer.
Today my wife and I took a day trip to Tunica MS. A 1980 Ford LTD pulled out in front of me, I did not have time to stop. Hit LTD at rear wheels, bent the whole back of the car on a 20 degree angle. Destroyed my front bumper and left head light, damaged my left front fender hood and grill. Truck still drivable drove back home to Alabama. No one was injured luckly.
"At NO time do the fronts get 'locked' together because this would create a situation that is impossable to steer."
Are you sure about that? I have an '84 Chevy K10 and the front wheels definitely lock together. When you turn sharply in that mode the inside front tire skips - it definitely is harder to steer on dry pavement but having two wheels pulling in the front make that truck unstoppable in mud or snow. Once one of my hubs broke and the truck was no better in snow and mud than it was in 2(1 - no lsd)WD.
I don't think 4wd would work on a pickup if one of the front wheels slipped.
the review (finally) that is now 'in place' on a 4X4 Dakota Quad, located on the page where you access Town Hall? Pretty accurate report from what I've read here in the topics on the 4X4's. I've got the steering wheel radio controls which would've ENDED at least one of their complaints, but their overall assessment of this 'twuck' (my 3 year old calls it that too, Kim) is VERY good. My complaints are similar to theirs. It's the first real test of a Quad from a woman's point of view - and a great sales tool for all of us guys to use on the wives to get one! If she'd had her dog along for the test it would've been perfect. But that's just a macho guy thing, I guess - she probably has a cat anyway, and that'd made the test 'purrfect.' ;-P
I hope they see fit to include one in a year long test. But shoot, 90 days and they'd all have one parked in their driveways: guaranteed. Even though mine (and probably the majority of owners - though not in the topics) is a 2WD, I feel quite sure the more they drive the Quad, the more impressed they'd be... and understand us, 'daquadders.'
Thank you Edmunds for the test (Dodge probably used bookitty's 'allocation' for the test truck), Liz Kim for a 'spot on' review; Scott Jacobs and Karl Brauer for some great photos. We'll convert ya'll yet... O:-)
No, there isn't factory wiring installed on the trucks for fog lights. I too, thought the front looked naked without the lights so I put in the Mopar fog light kit. It comes with the wiring harness, the relay, and the switch for the dash. You will have to wire through the firewall to get to the new switch. In addition, I had to cut a wire in the control module that switches off the fog lights when the bright lights come on.
I really don't see why you couldn't use your own wiring, relay and then buy the switch for the dash. One note, use the ground wire off the old dash switch. It will save you some time in the long run.
To badass & lpeebles... I enjoyed the exchange! And regardless of whether lack of LSD creates an effective "3WD" or "2WD" situation, I think we're all agreed that you're not really getting what you pay for in a 4WD unless you opt for the LSD (Doesn't it seem that they should simply make that standard on the 4-wheelers and build the cost into the base truck???).
Not to hammer the point... But there's another "savings factor" with LSD... TIRE WEAR.
On the old S-10 with LSD, the original tires went 50,000 miles before replacement. On the Ram without LSD, they went 35,000. A lot of "scrubbing" goes on when you're dry pavement and making a left or a right turn!
For what it's worth, I TOO have enjoyed the commeraderie that exists in this Town Hall section. Perhaps that's because WE ALL know that the QC is a truly UNIQUE piece.
About 18 months ago I was developing some training for Dodge... I knew the 4-year-old Ram was going to need replacement in about a year... At that time, the Dakota X-cab didn't even feature a third door.
Knowing that the Dakota was SURELY losing market share to Chevy/GMC compacts (and others) for that very reason, I assumed and asked whether Dodge would be breaking a third-door X-cab for the '99 model year... The answer, quite disappointingly, was "NO... Check again in 2000."
Well... I must say that Dodge did its homework well, and pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the Quad! Regarless of what glitches might exist in first-year builds, I must say that the R&D people at Chrysler are VERY perceptive of what buyers want and need!
Pardon my diatribe (hey! I'm a writer by trade!)... But I recall years ago, crossing the Detroit River to Canada, where Lee Iacocca unveiled the first "minivan." Chrysler, in effect, had created a "new market."
To a certain extent, I believe it's done the same with the Quad. No other manufacturer offers a "midsize" truck with such a range of power options. These guys are smart!
Thanks to all for discussing the LSD issue. I've been trying to figure out if I needed the LSD if I got a 4wd (hey, its four wheel drive, I thought). Now I can add it to the list... The group has also sold me on the folding cover. Thanks to all...
I am overseas so am unable to visit a dealer right now, so maybe you folks can help again... In the book they show a molded running board on one page but on a club cab. Is it available for the Quad and if so, how does it compare to an aftermarket step bar?
Also, any news on changes/additions to 2001 models?
I just started reading these notes this morning. I'm thinking of getting a Dakota Quad, and noticed some discussion of automatic transmission problems. What problems and can they be worked around?
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Comments
marellano
--These are examples ONLY (do NOT let your wife see this list - my e:mail address is subject to change, instantly!)-- Sooooo,
DaQuadders (or whatever our name is)
FAQS
Powertrains
Engines
Trannies
Rear ends
4X4 specialty area
Dealer issues
Good
Bad
Sue-ees!
Maintenance
General
TSB's
Fit / finish
Perf. mods that work (yours) or don't (mine)
Odd 'thingies' specific to Quad (our finds)
Other(s)
Site links
including links, short descriptions and
maybe a shortcut 'path' to the Quad stuff
Pix
Owner's trucks
Our dogs (even the deceased ones)
Our kids
Babes (mmmm, I meant as in 'kids' of course)
Beaters (our first or favorite cars), etc.
Bikes
Boats
Favorite area drives, maps
Hobby stuff
Scars & wounds
Wive(s)
Note: #4-11 are alphabetical (pol. correct)
Personal area (attached to above)
Lies
Damned lies
Statistics
Etc.
Yada, yada, yada
Just sort of fits with the other stuff - whatever that may be... :-P And, of course the above is just to stimulate the ol noggin a bit.
96g11 I hope to get a k&n before our trip next month. I would also like to install a flomaster muffler but am receiving some resistance on the home front. My wife remembers how I used to talk about my 70' Chevelle with headers and straight pipes. She's afraid I'll wake up everybody.
I'm sure it can't be any worse than bike every morning.
I’ve been thinking about getting the fold-a-cover, but haven’t found one to look at. I’ll be needing to remove the cover frequently and don’t want to go with a soft cover. How easy is it to remove? (Folded up it will probably take too much bed space.)
is 70-75. At 55 you have a lot of kick left, but at
70 not much kick left you still have accelartion.
I have drove a Nissan truck 4cyl. for 15 yrs. the
3.9L seems to have 3x the power of the Nissan.
Bobemoto, The cover takes up about 18 inches of bed behind the cab when folded up. You can remove
the cover with a 5/16 nut driver in about two min.
there are two mounting blocks on the first hinged
section behind the cab that attach to the side of
the bed that have to come off.
gsx750f, I paid $620 for my cover from the dealer
i purchased the truck from and it comes with the
3yr. 36,000 mile warranty. I did install myself
and did put one pop rivet in the end of each rail.
Sounds like you got a good deal on your cover.
Now the bad news. While on my way to work today, I got struck from behind by a Mustang, car not horse. Dakota damage, 2" round area on bumper is scuffed up and bumper is bowed in about an 1" in the middle. New bumper and I'm done. Mustang damage, front bumper slight damage, grill and right side lights gone, hood folded in half like cardboard, radiator history. In other words, totaled. Thankful for those high bumpers on the those 4x4's. I know it could have been much worse but it sucks anyway.
http://www.donmar.com/
They have one. I do not think it has a defroster. I guess you could add an electric "hot air" blower from JC Whitney?
Good Luck.
handling group on the 4x2. I bought mine from my dodge dealer and installed them myself. They are
real easy to put on. They come pre-painted the color you order. Every thing you need to put them
on comes with the flares. I think I paid about $230.
4x2 Sport or SLT as Standard. You can purchase
them through the parts dept. I paid $255.00,
wasn't as lucky as g...86. Takes about an hour
to put all 4 on. All you need is a 1/4 drive
ratchet and a #12 torx bit. Holes are pre-drilled
on the truck.
later renegade69
What size tires/wheels come with the T/H group on a 4x2 sport or slt?
My honest opine on the reasons for delays is a combination of restriction for various specific parts and just plain luck.
I finally got good news today - dealer called and I'm officially D1, build date of 5/11 and ship date of 5/16. My order date was 2/10.
qc 4x4 4.7 5sp ls tow skids t&h antilock
I HAD THE BED SPRAYED W/ARMA COATING SIMILAR TO RHINO, I WILL DO IT AGAIN WHEN I GET A QUAD. IT WAS 350. WITH LIFETIME WARRANTY.
TONNEAU COVER- I HAVE A GAYLORD 1PC FIBERGLASS, I HAVE NOT HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH WATER LEAK'S FROM WASHING OR RAIN. I HAD IT PAINTED TO MATCH WAS $850.00, WITH A LITTLE CARE I CAN HAVE IT OFF BY MYSELF IN 15 MIN. ( I'M 5'7") I HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
SORRY FOR GOING ON I LOVE MY DAKOTA AND HAVE ENJOYED READY THE INFORMATION FROM EVERYONE!!!!
I HAVE 49,000 MILES ON A TRUCK I SPECIAL ORDERED FEB/98, REC 3/98. WILL PROBABLY HAVE TO ORDER A QUAD TOO!!!
KEEP ON TRUCKEN
if I'm wrong let me know!!!!!
Admittedly, the "Detroit market" is NOT representative of all regions across the country. In fact, as I develop sales and service training programs for all of the "big three," we're very careful to contact dealers outside the local market (usually in places such as Indianapolis and Kansas City).
It distresses me that the further from Detroit you are, the greater the liklihood of long waits. I ordered the Quad 5.9 Sport with all options except steering wheel radio controls on April 3. It's scheduled to go on the line early next week, and shipped out on April 26. I haven't checked back with DC since early iin the seek, but it appears that there are no restrictions and everything is "go."
As for market positioning, my personal feeling is that Dodge has a good "niche" with the Quad. It's a remarkable vehicle in that you've got something that's easily "garageable," yet can be had with the "guts" of a full-size.
Regarding dealer allocations, you're right! It's not entirely fair. While the "big three" here in Detroit will NEVER admit it, allocations of fast-moving, high-gross vehicles are aften influenced by the individual dealer's willingness to "jump through the factory hoops." That is, "If you can get 10 more Intrepids over the curb this month, I'll give you five more Quads."
The "car business" is changing dramatically. The factory is gaining more and more control over dealer franchises, and the principle of allocation is based on bottom-line for the big boys.
I know that's not a comforting response to your post, but it's REAL.
While I can see that the full fiberglass units are more "fashionable," I have neither the time nor inclination to lift off one of those monsters simply so that I can run down to the greenhouse and pick up a few trees!
Thanks again!
Fixed Coverage is the ability of a dealership Parts/Service operation to cover dealership expenses for all but VEHICLE-RELATED expenses (i.e., the physical building, lights, heat, etc. for the ENTIRE dealership). The national average is about 75% coverage, though 80% is the benchmark.
The Service Department performs work in three basic areas:
1. Warranty Work -- Reimbursed by the factory on a standardized "time/rate" (i.e., "You'd better get this job done at our rate unless you want the cost to come out of your own pocket!)
2. Internal Work -- Primarily reconditioning of used vehicles for resale.
3. Customer-Pay Work -- The sale of parts and service that is not covered by the factory and profits come out of the customer's pocket.
That said, let's talk about those "buzzes, clunks and ticking" you experience during the warranty period.
They're NOT listed as reimbursible under standard time/rate maintenance and repair procedures by the factory. HOWEVER, the dealership should have a pre-determined "discretionary" amount from the factory to cover "customer satisfaction" issues.
In other words, if your dealer REALLY cares about you as a customer, and REALLY wants to sell you another truck in another 3-5 years, he'll dip into that fund or dip into his own pocket to assure your satisfaction.
My suggestion on what problems you might be experiencing is to sidestep the Service Manager and ask to speak with the Dealer Principal. Explain the situation, be very frank about your feelings, and about your expectations of the product.
If your dealer is a good one, and if he values repeat business, he'll respond.
Nuff said... Good luck!!!
Thanks to all and keep posting.
You're absolutely RIGHT on the 4WD answer! It's very clear that you have a solid technical background! Once I thought about it, there was perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
What convinced me of that truth even more was "practical application." Before I took delivery of the Ram, I had a Chevy S-10 4WD with LSD. As we were building our home here north of Detroit, the snows were heavy, but that little truck managed it no problem.
Then, I had this "big bad Ram." We had a paltry 8 inches of snow on the ground with mud underneath... I needed to pull the truck around the house and back to the barn... Threw it into "4-high" and it couldn't do the job! Stuck, and VERY disappointed with the performance!
Shifted to "4-low" and managed to get the truck unstuck... But it was certainly an eye-opener on the value of LSD. It's not just something that helps prevent tire-squeals while pulling out on the highway in 2WD... It's the difference between "4WD" and "True 4WD."
You're absolutely RIGHT on the 4WD answer! It's very clear that you have a solid technical background! Once I thought about it, there was perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
What convinced me of that truth even more was "practical application." Before I took delivery of the Ram, I had a Chevy S-10 4WD with LSD. As we were building our home here north of Detroit, the snows were heavy, but that little truck managed it no problem.
Then, I had this "big bad Ram." We had a paltry 8 inches of snow on the ground with mud underneath... I needed to pull the truck around the house and back to the barn... Threw it into "4-high" and it couldn't do the job! Stuck, and VERY disappointed with the performance!
Shifted to "4-low" and managed to get the truck unstuck... But it was certainly an eye-opener on the value of LSD. It's not just something that helps prevent tire-squeals while pulling out on the highway in 2WD... It's the difference between "4WD" and "True 4WD."
light to dimly illuminate the trays from under the dash instead of having to turn on the overhead map light? am i being too picky?
I love this truck. I am learning how to drive it. It weighs more and is bigger than previous Nissan PU and trusty Cherokee so it is not quite as nimble. But oh the purr of that 4.7 and the cadillac ride. And it is still a truck. :>)
You are correct on all points about LSD being the VERY BEST INVESTMENT on a rear-wheel-drive truck.
(2WD or 4WD)
One correction on your statement:
Once I thought about it, there was
perfect sense behind the fact that "4WD" is in fact "3WD" unless the truck is equipped with LSD.
Actually, when in 4WDlock you have "2WD" (1front + 1rear)... Add LSD to the rear and you get "3WD" (1front + 2rears)
At NO time do the fronts get 'locked' together because this would create a situation that is impossable to steer.
A 1980 Ford LTD pulled out in front of me, I did not have time to stop. Hit LTD at rear wheels, bent the whole back of the car on a 20 degree angle. Destroyed my front bumper and left head light, damaged my left front fender hood and grill. Truck still drivable drove back home to Alabama. No one was injured luckly.
because this would create a situation that is
impossable to steer."
Are you sure about that? I have an '84 Chevy K10 and the front wheels definitely lock together. When you turn sharply in that mode the inside front tire skips - it definitely is harder to steer on dry pavement but having two wheels pulling in the front make that truck unstoppable in mud or snow. Once one of my hubs broke and the truck was no better in snow and mud than it was in 2(1 - no lsd)WD.
I don't think 4wd would work on a pickup if one of the front wheels slipped.
-Joe Jackson
I hope they see fit to include one in a year long test. But shoot, 90 days and they'd all have one parked in their driveways: guaranteed. Even though mine (and probably the majority of owners - though not in the topics) is a 2WD, I feel quite sure the more they drive the Quad, the more impressed they'd be... and understand us, 'daquadders.'
Thank you Edmunds for the test (Dodge probably used bookitty's 'allocation' for the test truck), Liz Kim for a 'spot on' review; Scott Jacobs and Karl Brauer for some great photos. We'll convert ya'll yet... O:-)
I really don't see why you couldn't use your own wiring, relay and then buy the switch for the dash. One note, use the ground wire off the old dash switch. It will save you some time in the long run.
Not to hammer the point... But there's another "savings factor" with LSD... TIRE WEAR.
On the old S-10 with LSD, the original tires went 50,000 miles before replacement. On the Ram without LSD, they went 35,000. A lot of "scrubbing" goes on when you're dry pavement and making a left or a right turn!
For what it's worth, I TOO have enjoyed the commeraderie that exists in this Town Hall section. Perhaps that's because WE ALL know that the QC is a truly UNIQUE piece.
About 18 months ago I was developing some training for Dodge... I knew the 4-year-old Ram was going to need replacement in about a year... At that time, the Dakota X-cab didn't even feature a third door.
Knowing that the Dakota was SURELY losing market share to Chevy/GMC compacts (and others) for that very reason, I assumed and asked whether Dodge would be breaking a third-door X-cab for the '99 model year... The answer, quite disappointingly, was "NO... Check again in 2000."
Well... I must say that Dodge did its homework well, and pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the Quad! Regarless of what glitches might exist in first-year builds, I must say that the R&D people at Chrysler are VERY perceptive of what buyers want and need!
Pardon my diatribe (hey! I'm a writer by trade!)... But I recall years ago, crossing the Detroit River to Canada, where Lee Iacocca unveiled the first "minivan." Chrysler, in effect, had created a "new market."
To a certain extent, I believe it's done the same with the Quad. No other manufacturer offers a "midsize" truck with such a range of power options. These guys are smart!
I am overseas so am unable to visit a dealer right now, so maybe you folks can help again... In the book they show a molded running board on one page but on a club cab. Is it available for the Quad and if so, how does it compare to an aftermarket step bar?
Also, any news on changes/additions to 2001 models?
I'm thinking of getting a Dakota Quad, and noticed
some discussion of automatic transmission problems. What problems and can they be worked around?