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Dodge Dakota Crew Cab - III
This topic is a continuation of TOPIC 1685....
Dodge Dakota Crew Cab - II. Please continue these
discussions here. Thanks!
Front Porch Philosopher
SUV, Pickups, & Aftermarket and Accessories Host
Dodge Dakota Crew Cab - II. Please continue these
discussions here. Thanks!
Front Porch Philosopher
SUV, Pickups, & Aftermarket and Accessories Host
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Comments
The next paragraph was meant simply to point out the lesser of two evils. The States and Feds have implemented and supported the helmet law statute(s) so long that - I believe - to remove it wholesale - would be just about as bad a policy as having instituted it in the first place: Way too much confusion - too many unqualified (no skills) riders entering the market now, and could be a total financial disaster for a larger state to (completely) repeal the laws. I also believe that - at least in Texas - the extra insurance required to ride without a helmet is a very good compromise. It allows those who passionately believe in their freedoms to ride without a helmet to do so. Those who don't want to provide for those future (helmetless) injury victims stay in their own (lesser) risk pool - so they can afford to ride. Unfortunately, there are many abusing this extra liability clause - and raising my insurance - which directly affects my 'freedom.'
You made a great point about "Where does it end?" Essentially it won't - the Feds are (seriously) considering forced implementation of air bags for bikes! What a joke! I support your (much) "less government" stance, I guess the wording I used looked sort of '[non-permissible content removed].' My apologies for the confusion...
BTW - Was it you who said that the T & H package actully raised the truck? It does, went out today and measured a 1" to 1 1/2" height difference - higher on the T & H equipped vehicles. Doesn't make a lot of sense to me to have better handling in a taller truck. I'm pretty sure it does though - must be the added rear sway bar and wider stance with the 8" wheels / fatter tires... interesting.
4.7L, Auto, 3.55, 4W ABS, Anti Spin, Sport plus pack, Power Conv group AM/FM CD and towing pack. I could note be happier with it. Installed the colored matching wheel flares on Sunday and I am getting a liner and an ARE color matched tonneau cover on Wednesday. Last thing to do is install a 1 in 2 out muffler (thats not too loud) so I can see two pipes sticking out the back. If I can't find a quiet muffler I will stick with the stock exhaust. Anyone install a muffler like this yet?
It was still tacky after 8 hours but dried once the engine heat cured it. That's it.
WARNING!!! After you first start the truck, the rpm's will drop off and it will almost stall. Then, the rpm's will kick up to keep it from stalling. I nearly took out the sidewall in the garage the first time it happened. It did this for about 3-4 starts until the computer adjusted to the mod. Everything is fine now.
I didn't notice any improvement in mileage but it sounds great when you punch it. I have since added a k&n filter. Last tank went from 305 to fuel light to 321 to fuel light. This translate into .8 mpg increase.
BTW Has anyone replaced just their muffler, would like to keep as much as the old system as possible $$$.
Thanks, Scott
In winter the DRLs are useful for seeing people who refuse to put headlights on until it is pitch black - this is shown up by the older cars on the road that were produced before DRLS were mandatory and who can't be seen so easily. My Jag doesn't have them, but as I don't drive that in winter that hasn't been a big deal.
As far as helmets are concerned - well I rode in the UK where they are mandatory, though I would have worn one anyway, an easy decision for me. When a guy pulled out in front of me I was very glad that I was - I wouldn't be telling you about it anyway.
As a non American, and as someone who grew up outside of the North American culture, I guess this whole freedom of choice issue is a hard one for me to understand, and I am sorry if my post reflects that. I hope you all know me well enough to know that no attack is intended.
#1 - DELIVERY:
The wife and I drove to the delivering dealership (200 miles away) in my current '95 Ram 1500 4X4 SLT on Saturday morning to take delivery of the QC 4X4 Sport (loaded, with 5.9L engine as in the Ram).
The QC was in the detail bay when I arrived, and the sales guy and I went out to inspect it. All looked good, except that it had the "agate" interior rather than the "mist grey" that I ordered. Ironically, I actually preferred the agate!
As we were going through paperwork, he handed the keys to me... on a "regular" fob. I asked him why there was no remote keyless fob... He turned a brilliant shade of red, went back over the order, and acknowledged that the factory had not included the remote fob... Went back to the service area, then into the General Manager's office, came out and indicated that everything would be taken care of within the hour.
They took the truck accross the street, did some additional detailing, programmed a couple of remote fobs, and all was well.
#2 - INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:
I "negotiated" with my wife, and convinced her that I should be able to drive the QC the first 100 miles on the trip home. She'd always HATED driving the Ram due to its "tall" stature, imprecise steering and the "wallowing effect" of a full size 4X4.
I jumped into the QC and off we went. Of course, I immediately noticed the "step-up" difference between the two trucks. But what thoroughly impressed me within 5-10 miles was the relative quietness and precise steering in the QC. There was NO DOUBT that I'd made the right choice with the Dakota platform.
I'd read in earlier posts here that the 5.9L engine would produce some noticable valvetrain noise... But found that it was as quiet as the 5.9 in the Ram. In short, it was a PURE JOY to drive, and obviously had all the "guts" of the Ram and MORE.
We met at a restaurant at the midway point to "swap" vehicles. She complained (as she always has) of the Ram's "wallowing." I suggested that she'd find the QC a lot more "driveable," but she remained skepticle.
100 miles later, we arrived home. She got out of the QC. I asked how the drive was. Her reply?
"I'll drive this truck any day of the week!"
The R&P steering is incredibly precise compared with RB steering in the Ram. There is virtually no body roll over uneven surfaces, and the QC Sport (without additional sound-deadening in the SLT group) was incredibly quiet compared to the Ram SLT. I'm delighted!
#3 - VERSUS FORD:
Out for supplies to clean up the Ram for resale Sunday morning, I happened upon a new Ford short-bed crew cab (F-150 chassis)in the parking lot... Very tall, odd-looking body lines, and from my personal perspective, quite "clownish" looking. Not to knock Ford, but I believe that DC took the better approach in designing the Dakota QC... The lines are much more "fluid" and it looks more like a "truck" than a Jeep.
#4 - SILL PROTECTORS?
I've obtained lot's of great tips from users of this service, and I'm coming back to the well again here...
The QC is in obvious need of a good set of door sill protectors... Can anyone steer me in the right direction on that?
#5 - WORTH THE WAIT:
For those who've been waiting for QC delivery, you won't be sorry. It is truly a remarkable vehicle!
And for those who might be tempted to "step up" to a full-size pickup due to the relatively high price point of the Dak QC, my personal advice would be to think twice. For what it's worth from a guy who's driven a Ram 4X4 for 5 years, the handling and comfort of the QC are well worth the price of admission!
4.7, auto, 4x2, 3.92 and loaded with a rollnlock tonneau cover and fenderflares.
robert
Living near Motown and doing communications and training business with the "big three," I can safely say that the automakers are continually scratching their heads trying to think of what "nitza" is going to ask them to do next.
I recall when the government made aibags mandatory. The makers responded as best they could (at our cost, of course). Then the nitzoids come back and told the makers that their airbags are killing children. The makers responded again with "2nd generation" (de-powered) airbags and and shut-off switches for passenger-side bags in conventional pickups (which QC is NOT).
What's next? Well, for starters, we already see crash severity sensors that trigger bags at different speeds according to vehicle speed. Now the nitzies are back with new crash test parameters that require a new "family" of test dummies, replete with children, small-statured women, etc.
I'm sure that's got the makers scratching their heads again, and I'm sure they'll respond as best they can (at our cost, of course). Unfortunately, however, NHTSA has become a "self-perpetuating machine," the livlihood of its employees dependent on its "imagination" in establishing new and "better" standards!
So... Is it just a rumor, or is there something in the works on testing cup-holders for crashworthiness???
I COMMEND your notion of substituting the beaurocrats for crash test dummies! There's nothing like first-hand experience to get a clear perspective on things!!!
In seriousness, just a word on an oft-overlooked option that can pay back big-time for those living in the colder climes... The engine block heater.
Back when I was earning an automotive technology degree in college, I recall the instructor WARNING us all to retro-fit an oil pan heater to our engines (as he had on his 7 vehicles). The numbers on engine wear during start-up/warm-up were ASTOUNDING!
I did so, and will never again be worried about starting and warm-up after those 0-15 degree nights.
The point? Simply that those who face such a climate and have a 120V powercord available might consider adding the $25 block heater to their option list. It's simply a short receptacle cord that hangs to the right of the radiator... Pop the hood, plug in an extension cord, close the hood and go to bed... A very nice feeling the next morning to have instant start-up, quick warm-up and know that you've extended the life of that precious engine!
On my two previous vehicles the mfg designed them to run on a slightly reduced voltage, apparently to increase longevity of the halogen bulbs(but still meet minimum candlepower regs) also the high beam switch does not work unless the light switch is actually turned on, not when it's running on DLR position. As you can guess we get somepretty crappy weather here, and DLR's make a real difference in winter. The other problem is those dimwits that don't turn on the lights at twilight - this "govt interference" although a pain in the a** sometimes has also motivated manufacturers to design some fundamental features into our autos, something I really don't think they would have done on their own.
Helmets - amazing the people who won't wear a motorcycle helmet, but will always wear a protective cup while the play baseball or hockey, I guess if they get bumped in the noggin they can always pay people to do your thinking for them!
Now that automaticly dimming mirrors are available, let's get automaticly dimming daytime running lights. Running bright lights on bright sunny days makes as much sense as running wipers under the same conditions.
Stalling: I have noticed on some of the cooler mornings (they have been quite rare here in Texas) that my truck does not have a fast idle "warm-up". My truck has died on several cool and damp mornings, would have to restart and no more stalling. Will have dealer check.
cowtownkid
2drive, I don't get it. Snowcountry and I live with DRLs day in and day out on 95% of the vehicles we encounter and we both say it isn't a problem.
Stalling - well, it might be normal actually - it could be a symptom of the computer learning the driving habits. I got the impression from nowillys that he (or she) has only just got the truck, in which case the computer is still being programmed. That said this 'feature' should rapidly disappear as the coputer learns the driver's habits - if it doesn't there is definitely a problem.
I'm looking for:
1. Door sill protectors (set of 4)
2. Ventshades (preferrably the "slip-in" type)
3. Front floor pans (dished, to retain ice/snow/mud)
4. Mud flaps (4) that will work with existing factory fender flares
Any and all tips based on your experiences will be appreciated!
who have no problem with the DRL's. I think they
are actually of importance when near dawn and dusk times as some "idiots" don't turn on their
headlights when appropriate. The stats are there apparently regarding avoiding accidents through use of these lights. I don't personlly put much faith in ICBC stats mind you.....
Let's not forget that ICBC also brought in the gem of "PHOTO RADAR"....another topic.
R.
The Mopar vent shades sound a bit pricy... Found a set of 4 "Ventvisor" deflectors from J.C. Whitney for $50... But I'll look into the Mopar equivalent nonetheless.
Thanks again!
Accessories: I used the Mopar sill guards and they work great. Also, for floor slush mats, check out your local Target store. I found heavy, good fitting ones for $24 fronts/$16 rears.
1. Door Sills I got from dealer, $31.00
2. Ventshades I got from truckstyles.com, $46 shipped
3. Mud Flaps from dealer for Ram fit Quad with flares, $12 front, $12 back, (flat with Ram logo)
Haven't tried the flares yet.
bookitty - has it come in yet.
Bookitty
2001 Dak with 4.7 Auto V8, 3.92 -LSD rear axle,
HD Payload, SLT Package, RED,and was wondering what anyone thoughts were on the 4 wheel ABS as opposed to the standard rear wheel ABS...I live in South Florida where it rains alot and roads get slick.
I'll be carrying a heavy load -1500 lbs of steak/seafood in a mini refridgerated truck (a conversion co will take the bed off the Dak and put a fibergalss mini reefer on the back
to hold product- any input on the 4 wheel ABS would be appreciated! Anyone have it and why did you get it? DJ
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This is an enjoyable/friendly topic, let's keep it that way.
www.truckaddons.com
enjoy!
tsoprano: No prob! I have no opinion either way. BTW, I won't have mine until late June or July, but I hope you are enjoying yours.
Bookitty
Unfortunately, I'm doing a plate transfer from the current Ram. Until it sells, the QC sits patiently in the barn, frozen with 220 miles on the clock... It's DRIVING ME NUTS!!!
Bookitty:
How long have you been waiting? Any further news on delivery?
On Sunroofs:
Having inspected the QC cab structure, I'm now convinced that integrity would be compromised by the addition of a roof. DC engineers obviously went to great lengths to assure a tight cab (e.g., the cross-beam midway down the roof), and I don't care to tempt faith. Besides... On the way home after delivery, it was 85 degrees out... I powered down the right rear window, and the cab remained pleasantly cool without any wind buffeting... No need for the roof!
On Mileage:
For those who've selected the 5.9 engine, expect to average about 12-1/2 mpg during break-in. I stopped at the 100-mile point, topped off the tank, documented gallons and odometer, then repeated the same upon arrival home... 12.6 mpg on the way home. Yes, I still envy those of you with the 4.7, and the additional 5 mpg you're getting. Yet, the old 5.9 still purrs like a kitten... And once past the 1,000 mile mark, I'll venture that it will assume tiger status.
QUESTION:
Has anyone installed a set of those "blue/white" projector lamps? If so, what type/brand, and how did the installation go?
I'm installing a Westin Safari Bar. It has mounting points for lamps, and I'm thinking of those trick blue ones strictly for purposes of visibility in bad weather.
Luck to all... And to the "waiters," you won't be sorry!
The 4.7L is on restriction status. Hope it won't be for long. Ran through the "build list" with the rep.
Everything looks good - at least they have everthing listed on paper . . . . we shall see.
Cowtown Aggie
Bookitty
Bookitty
Believe me... I can SHARE your disappointment with the dealership! I'm involved in developing sales, service and management training for all of the "big three" here in Michigan. Just a few experiential tidbits here...
FIRST... No matter how solid the training is, it's worthless unless the salesperson takes it seriously. Unfortunately, more often than not, that is NOT the case.
SECOND... There are WAY too many "car salesmen" out there who are NOT qualified to sell trucks. I've written enough truck speccing courses to know that if you're going to have a satisfied truck customer, you'd better KNOW YOUR STUFF. Unfortunately, partly due to the sudden shift from car to truck/SUV in the marketplace, we've got salespeople who know LESS than their truck customers!
THIRD... Your comment regarding McDonald's training is delightfully ironic!
I sat in a meeting last week with a Ford client, reviewing a satellite dealership training program I'd written. In frustration, he drew the McDonald's analogy: If you're going to run a McDonald's franchise, you DO IT MAC'S WAY or you're "outa here." In short, if your french fries are not prepared according to McDonald's standards, you stand to lose your franchise.
Not so in the automotive retail business. While the factory would like nothing more than to disenfranchise the dead-wood dealers, it's still relatively powerless to do so. Franchise agreements that were struck 20 or 30 years ago do not stipulate adherence to sales performance standards, and the dead-wood dealers continue to bumble!
AHHH!!!! Feels good to vent!
So, Boo... Where does that leave a serious truck buyer? Well... Unfortunately it leaves us in a position where we need to educate ourselves on the specs, and look over the salesperson's shoulder in much the same way our first-grade teachers looked over ours when we were adding 2+2!
In any case, I hope your dealer learned from the mistakes first time around... and that you're eventually as pleased with your purchase as fellow owners in this group seem to be!
I think you'll find that the QC has excellent ventilation without having to bore a hole in the roof... and that you'll find the cab surprisingly tight and rigid as-is!
One the Safari Bars... Still waiting for mine to arrive, but in no hurry since I'm still driving the Ram until it sells. If you're painting yours, my only suggestion is to have them powdercoated rather than conventional enamel or epoxy... You'll find that the PC is much more durable... Sounds cool! Red-on-red! My Quad is white... The "black-on-white" theme prevails, so I'll use the Westin bars as-is.
On the lights... I think I've found a source (surprisingly) through my Harley catalogs... Very small, bright blue lights available to make the bike more visible to "cagers". More on that when I get the bars and check the light mounting points.
On DRLs... I may be in the minority here, but I'm against them (for now) for a specific reason. Here in Michigan, the ONLY vehicles required to run headlights during the daytime are motorcycles... You fire up the bike and the headlights go on automatically. That provided some extra measure of security to riders until DRLs became prevalent on GM vehicles.
Guess we'll have to wait 'till the jury comes in on their effectiveness...
Bookitty
I know we're off the subject here... But your words are SO familiar and SO sad...
I've worked for fifteen years trying to help car/truck salespeople and managers elevate their status above that of a yellow-pages lawyer, and their income above that of a custodian (no criticism intended) with only a modicum of success. Sad, but most vehicle salespeople view their jobs as "something to do" while they're looking for a "real" job.
Ah well... My compliments to you for sticking with your guns, and for having faith enough in the product decision to go it a second time around. I think you'll be glad you did.
Funny... My sales guy screwed up on the upholstery color. It's a white Sport, 5.9L, loaded, and I actually e-mailed him the specs I'd prepared on . I specced the mist grey interior (as I have in the Ram). Should have seen the sales guy's face when I walked out to examine the truck, and told him he'd ordered the wrong interior! (it's the agate)... Talk about shades of red! What a hoot!!!
Ah well... As it turned out, I prefer the agate to the mist grey. So it was one of those rare cases when a salesperson's mistake actually helped the customer!
To TEXASZACH: Congratulations on the order! I've been a "car guy" here in motown for a long time, and (knock on wood) I will say (once again) that I believe DC pulled a real coup with the QC, at least in design! The tendency of manufacturers here in Detroit seems to be striving to go the competition "one-up" on this feature or that without regard to the "total vehicle." Thankfully, DC designed the QC without regard to the "competition," followed what its better senses and what customers said they wanted.
The QC is definitely "different"... Yet, it's a very natural-looking truck... Not gaudy or clownish. As you're waiting for delivery, take a look at the other crew-cabs out there (particularly the Ford) and relish the decision you've made!!!
Anyone more educated on automatics care to enlighten me on what this will cost, since my annual miles are usually about 40K, this means I'll be doing this service every 9 months or so...
Thanks, Skip (quark99)
2000 PB SLT PLUS QC 4.7l w/auto 3:55
BTW, I'm planning on a sprayed on liner with a roll-n-lock cover. We have a company in WI that is comparable to Line-X with a few advantages and the RNL seems to have some pros compared to the Pace Edwards. Although, one of them isn't the price.
Finally, thanks for all the info so far in these posts. It has been informative, and coming from QC owners or future owners, it has provided comfort and reliability.
CMed