Congrats on the Supercrew Dave. I was in about the same boat you are. I looked long and hard at a SuperCrew Lariat because I had the Z-plan available to me. (In the past 10 months we've gotten a 2000 Eddie Bauer Expedition and a 2000 E-250 conversion van thanks to the Z-plan, and both are excellent vehicles so far).
Domestic auto makers are making such a better product than 10, 15 or 20 years ago. I love my new Dakota Quad. The design, engineering, quality, fit and finish bares virtually no resemblence to my last Chrysler product. 20 some years ago, for a few frustrating months, I owned a '78 Chrysler Cordoba (complete with rich Corinthian leather). The recurring 'exchange' around our house between my wife and I was:
Anyone else observing the slight "binding"click in the steering column, or attempted to have it fixed? There is a TSB out for this situation but I have failed to address it because it did not initially occur very often and that it did not appear to physically restrict steering wheel movement. I ask now because it does occur multiple times daily.
I notice it mostly well after completing a tight turn at corners, or situations similar to backing out of the driveway etc. in either direction. At some point later after I am moving forward in a straight line and I need to adjust the steering wheel to the opposite direction, it will click.
It is supposedly due to slight misalignment of the steering column linkage and is addressed by repositioning a 4 bolt saddle clamp at the underside of the dash. I became aware of the TSB back when we were researching a printout of the infamous "engine ticking" several months ago. My brother-in-law (owns a repair shop)subscribes to a site where he noticed it and mentioned it. At the time I was not too interested but may proceed with the fix.
In fact, for those interested, the web-site is available but you must pay if you wish to stay abreast of the recent (past year or so) TSBs. I know the quarterly CD is about 3-6 months behind the dealership, but the site may be up-to-date. If my memory works the site is www.alldata.com
What a hard decision, I was torn between the size,drivability feature of the Quad vs The size,value features of the SuperCrew. I was really leaning toward the Quad, because I loved the way it handled, but my wife loved the SuperCrew, and if momma is happy, daddy is happy.
The quality issue of Ford vs Dodge wasn't a factor to me. We had reservations about Chrysler before we decided to buy a 300M last year. We haven't had one problem with the car. My wife says she will probably want to drive the SuperCrew, I guess I will be left to drive the 300M, what a nice situation to be in.
By the way, do you remember if delivery was any quicker because you ordered through the z-plan
The dealer got us the exact EB Expedition model we wanted through a dealer swap from a dealer 100 miles away. Another dealer about 40 miles away had the one we wanted but wouldn't swap, so the z-plan didn't help us with delivery then.
With the E-250 conversion, we got it exactly as ordered in about 14 days. We got the Explorer conversion, and I understand Explorer (in Indiana) always has a lot of chassis/color combinations in stock. So, the prompt delivery of the E-250 was due to Explorer's inventory.
However, in both cases, the dealers gave us the 'red carpet treatment', very attentive to details, etc. Z-plan is a great deal, and thus, I strongly considered the Supercrew. But the Quad just suits our needs perfectly in size, handling, power, options, etc. I have 1000 miles on it now and am very happy with every facet of the Quad.
I also include the "War Dept." (my wife) in decisions. In fact, when we first got married, I told her I would make all the major decisions and she could handle everything else.
Amazingly, in all our time together, we have yet to be faced with a major decision.
Forest green exterior, Agate interior and DEFINITELY (the spousal unit says so) lt grey headliner. Not bad though would be like a cave with the dk tint on the windows and agate interior.
When I ordered the rear glass defrost option on my Quad, it also included the 6X9 power heated RV mirrors. Has anyone in the frostier climes had the heated mirrors? If so, how well do they work?
Towcrazy:I have them, only used them a few times but they seem to perform well,I think you will be happy with your choice. Bought in Mid February and I live in Syracuse NY. Nuff said?? Allen-
Ferous, you may call me anything that you like. Of course the few guys who called me "Boodaddy" did notice that their V-8 engines were replaced by four bangers that produced only 6 MPG. I'm certain that it was for them a good trade off.
Tow, I had them on my Expedition, and they worked really well. I was always traveling through PA, NY and New England, staying in motels. I truly appreciated the defrost feature on the mirrors. Between that and the engine block heater it made my thing that much easier to bear in cold weather.
In 1985 I built a nice 24' x 32' two car garage and now I can't use it because of motorcycles and a least on of my kids cars in there. A little tight anyway for the Quad.
Anyway, the Quad is always outside. Here in central PA and especially here in the wetlands where I live, there's heavy dew on it every morning. The heated mirrors are great. I squeegy (sp?) off the windows and hit the defrost button. After about 3 miles the mirrors are cleared off completely.
Any of you that bought the bucket seats probably have had some trouble trying to use the center console (other than for an armrest) when driving down the road. So if any DC reps are lurking, my 10 year old son suggests that you make the top slide toward the rear rather than be hinged. Just a thought.
Getting close to 12,000 miles and still love the truck. Just wish themacguy would get his oilfield buddies to lower the price of gas so I could drive more. Don't they know that these high gas prices are playing right into the algore agenda. :-)
I write eductation and training programs buy profession, but have an insatiable appetite for adding new skills to the repetoire... The latest of which is becoming a certified locksmith...
Anyway, I found it interesting that my materials referred to the profit potential afforded by keyless entry systems... That is, since the keyways are rarely used, the mechanisms tend to become inoperable after as little as a year... Locksmith to the rescue when the battery in that key fob runs out of juice and the key doesn't work!!!
The recommendation: "Exercise" the keyways on driver and passenger doors regularly... Plus an occasiional spritz of cleaner/lubricant (such as Lock-Ease).
No big deal... Just thought it was worth mentioning.
In regards to the trials and tribulations of keyless entry, hear my story, or rather heed my story. My wife left for school, and shoved her multitude of keys into her handbag. The Quad is sitting quietly in the garage, windows closed and the keys nestled comfortably in the tiny tray on the transfer case shifting platform. I thought that I heard a horn, but dismissed it as someone driving past. Went to the garage to get the Quad, and discovered the doors locked and of course with the keys in the tray. Called my wife at school, and she had several parent meetings, and could not leave the building. A couple of hours later, she came home to rescue as well as admonish me regarding her dislike for anything electronic. A day before I tried to have a duplicate key made, but the hardware store could not cut it correctly because it was too difficult to line up on their key machine. Took my wife's remote and stored it in our key cabinet.
I live in Birmingham, AL. There are no quads with a 5-speed 4.7-liter V-8 in the state of Alabama. I don't have the time, or the patience, to order one. If anyone knows of dealers with one on their lot, please respond. I'd be willing to drive anywhere in the Southeast to get one. I'm flexible on convenience items and options. Just need the power and the 5-speed. Thanks for your help.
Boo, Guess we've ALL "been there" under varying circumstances! The QC is the first truck I've had with the remote keyless... And it's already caused its share of embarrassment! Parked the truck in front of a milinary store... Jumped out to duck into the hardware next door... Stuffed the fob into my pocket as I walked... The panic alarm went off just as a woman was leaving the milinary... She dropped her purse, backed up against the wall. I disarmed it and apologized... She was not what I'd call "understanding." Ah well... Aren't these toys fun!!??
That was the first "two" things I did the day after picking up the truck: 1. Discarded the remote and attach the truck key to my two other vehicle keys; 2. Get a spare made by the dealer, took it to the basement and ground off the plastic, placed the "skeleton" key inside my wallet.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a Luddite, but I wanted to minimize the "bulge" in my pocket and it seemed easy enough to got back to the key.
Don't know if you would call me a luddite or not, but the salesperson that helped with my car order couldn't believe that I didn't want the power door locks or power windows. Course she already thought I was strange because I insisted on a 5spd and a cruise control. Some of the things you all have discussed hits on some of my reasoning about the power door locks. As an outdoorsman, it's just a lot easier to keep up with a key or two than the openers. Also nice to be able to use manual windows.
to appraiser--good luck on your search for a 5spd. Many of us ran into the same thing you are encountering which made us have to order. In the long run, I am glad I ordered the Quad that was equipped exactly as I wanted rather than settle for what was on the lot. Of course, I have to admit if I had found a 5spd already on a dealer lot, I would have been tempted. Good luck on your search.
Although I wasn't looking for a 5 speed, I kept running into them looking for my Quad Cab throughout Central Texas. Check with www.maxwelltrucks.com, www.bennyboyd.com, and Heart of Texas Dodge (don't know their URL). I saw 5 speed V-8's at some of these dealers 3 weeks ago. I opted for the power locks only because my wife refuses to open her own door with a key, she stands there waiting for me to do it, my arms are barely long enough to reach across the car. I never you the keyless entry to lock the car (its not hard to manually press the door lock as I close the door), unless I want people to hear the chirp -- parking in a bad neighborhood for example or to show off.
What can anyone tell me about the 4x4 systems in the Dakota? Are they reliable and does anyone have any advise on buying the full-time vs. part-time systems. I have the manual locking hubs on my 99 F250 SD and like that feature to keep wear to a minimum when I don't need the 4x4. On the Dakota part-time system, does it lock the front hubs or is the front driveline spinning all the time when it is in 2-wheel drive? I can't seem to find any info and I don't trust the salesman I'm working with.
Got the call while taking the wife out to her birthday dinner that the quad was pulling in on the transport. when we got back home I told the wife that I needed to go to the store to get some thing and that I'd be back soon. got to the lot and the dealer was still there she took me to the back lot and confirmed that it was my truck. they are going to do the detail work first thing in the a.m. and then put the tonneau cover on and said that I can probably have it around noon. Got my list of things to look for. looking at the back tonight it looked streight. it was all dusty so I did not take the chance and touch it ( don't go there). Going to have a hard time sleeping tonight.. I'll keep you all posted tomorrow as to any problems found.. It is a very good looking truck.. ( Ordered 2/17, Arrived 6/21 )
Looks like we're finally 'on deck' for the owners' group deal (finally). Our name's shown up on the Town Hall welcome page at least. I'm sure a_j and I will have an announcement shortly, as well as about a dozen e:mails a day flying back and forth!
ozark - I'll be in So. Colo. at the end of July doing a bit of fossil hunting. Hey, I thought algore was from your neck of the woods-- kinda looks like he 'might' be moving back there soon-- AND I'm pumping every barrel of the nasty stuff (sour crude) out of the ground I can for you & everybody else. I just wish we'd all switch to natural gas! I HATE oil - I'd give it to ya if I could, but my partners' (and the bank) would be a bit mmm... 'disturbed' if I did that.
impy2 - 01's will have at least a grille design change.
guanner - looks like a great (sick) day coming up! Congrats! - about time. But no wheelies... :-))
Nothing official on the club to report - I just found out from reading the post.
I guess I'm at the plate again for 4x4.
Full time vs. Part time - go part time. Shifting is easy and the additional maintenance, entry cost and operating cost make the full time system a complete waste of money in my opinion.
The part time system is shift on the fly - anything up to about 50mph, with the wheels straight for safety.
Don't recall exactly what happens with the front axle when in 2wd mode - let me think about it and post later - or someone else can help me out - hell I probably posted it a few months back - jeez this old age is killing my memory.
This is for part time 4WD systems with automatically engaged hubs such as is featured for the Dakota. The automatic hub spins freely (or as close to that as possible given the rules of friction and resistance) and engages automatically when it senses that 4WD high range is selected. The front propeller (drive) shaft is stationary in 2WD. The selection of 4WD high range causes the hubs to lock, thus providing for both propeller (drive) shafts to rotate at the same speed so as to synchronize, allowing the transfer case to engage them simultaneously. I am not certain regarding the sequence of full time 4WD systems. I do feel that in most instances they are superfluous to anyone's needs, save those who are unfamiliar with 4WD. I feel that part time 4WD in conjunction with a limited slip differential would provide a solution to most tractive effort situations. Purely my $.02 worth.
Thanks for the info on the Quads in Texas. That's a little farther than I wanted to drive, but a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. If anyone else knows of a Quad with a 5-speed and 4.7-Liter V-8 a little closer to Birmingham, AL, I'd appreciate the info. Thanks!
Thanks for the info on the 4x4 systems. I think I'll go with the part time system and order it along with one of those elusive 5sp manuals in the 2001 model.
from the new quad. went to the dealer around noon, filled out the rest of the paperwork, was on the road by 1:30. have been in or around the truck all afternoon. the wife took it for a 30 mile drive and came back and told me that it did not handle the way that she thaught that it would. she started to say that she should drive it more when I took the keys away.. we have now 74 miles on it and I love it.
Found one scratch on it today near the back passenger door. very minor will probably rub out.. other than that all looks to be good.. thanx for all the good info on this sight..
With 3600 miles on the odo, the rear driver's side door lock is failing. Not a big deal, will have it either repaired (yeah, right) or scrutinized when my new bench seat arrives and is installed. Bad solenoid, sticky actuator, or ground problem would be my guess. Hope it's not like the old 5.0 'stang power lock actuators, which continually failed every 30k or so...got tired of picking thru junkyards for 'em to save a few bucks.... Still LOVE the truck. So comfortable, quiet, and FAST! Rear seat passengers marvel at the roll-all-the-way down windows (important to teenagers who are used to being crammed in the back of 4-door Civics, Accords, and Corollas...) I marvel at the handling, power, gas mileage, utility, and yes, those mighty good looks. Note to all those married men out there-make sure Mama gets taken care of (her choice of vehicle might not be your choice). After choosing the last 4 or 5 vehicles based on my taste, I decided to surprise her with the "green light" on HER dream vehicle, a brand-new, 2000 Mustang GT. 5-speed, leather, 260 HP, yada, yada, yada....Cherry-red, with chrome-dipped 17" alloys. Whew! Talk about a happy lady! (Damn woman would NEVER suggest buying herself, SUCH a martyr...) Ever since I let her drive an old 5.0 sedan (1989) we had, she's had her heart set on this car....She even let me drive it-once. 0-60 in 5.5 seconds. WAY more refined (but not quite as fast) as a Camaro/Firehawk, but we don't "do" GM products anyway...Needless to say, our garage looks quite snappy with a Patriot Blue Quad SLT and that eye-catching Laser Red 'Stang...nuff said. Happy quadding!
oest1 - you might try [www.bennyboyd.com] in Lampasas. Get a hold of either Pam or Brigitte. Tell em Jack in Midland says 'hi!' If you can find a better deal / dealer combo, let me know... I'd have to see it to believe it, they're that good. Wherever you choose, it would be a VERY good idea as we've all found out the hard way, to have a relationship with a good (competent) ordering person who can also go to bat for you if needed, and IN PLACE when 2001 allocations roll around. We'll all have pix posted soon in the owners group area - I know some exist here already that are quite good. And just buy the color you want - there's not a toad in the pot.
quark - my driver's side passenger door has an electric 'releasing' problem with the double click (have to do it once more for that door). Sounds like 'you da man' on this one. If you figure out a TSB or something, please keep us updated...
Is there any easy way to post pictures now? I dont have a web site and being on a DSL my IP is dynamically assigned. I got my Leer topper and it looks SHARP, love to share it with y'all. Rick
Our owners group is up; you might WAIT to post a bit until a_j and I've worked out some bugs over the weekend.
pix posting will be relatively simple if you know any html (hypertext markup language). I you don't it'll still be doable. We'll explain all shortly over on the group site. I'm quite sure we'll do a cookie cutter thing for everyone to follow to keep it from getting cluttered and disjointed.
Has anyone installed a trailer hitch on a Dodge Dakota Club Cab (SLT)? It cost a 190.00 to buy the hitch and have it installed. I can get the hitch for around 125.00 and was wondering how hard it is to install? Any help would be greatly apperciated.
I have an automatic with a 4.7 and I am getting around 18.5 miles per gallon so far. I am shocked on how good gas milage is on this truck.
Congratulations on your success establishing the Quad Owners group! I will not post there until you have provided guidance /recomendations to this forum, on how we should use it.
I would assume we do not want to post the same items into the owners group forum that are posted in the other active Dakota forums. Makes for a lot of redundant reading.
I do have a suggetions I would like you two to consider. In addition to having messages discussing the various accessories, what about having a link to a spreadsheet which contains consoidates the details of the various options.
This linked document could provide a matrix of the Accessories that folks have identified for the truck. For example: Soft Tonneaus, Hard Toneaus, Hitches etc. It could include the Manufacturer, Brand name, mfg website, list price etc. I have started this for myself only for items that have interested me, and have found it useful to reference. I can go to my spreadsheet and look at all of the items in one spot versus having to "locate" and the "read" a multitude of documents to sort out the possible options. I know that this would require some coordination, but could benefit a large community. Obviousl, one link would be too complex for all accessries, so several would have to be set up.
Second, what about a link to a summary list of TSB's that exist. I have a list of them through April '00 and would be williing to type these into a format to set into the link. My list covers the 2000 Quad and also the 1999 Dakota which appers to have some overlap into the Quad- as best I can tell.
Any thoughts on this idea- Up to and including "kill it"!
myersed I totally agree with your idea. I think the only drawback to these types (edmunds) of discussion groups is that you really have to search to find what you are looking for, even then you may not find it. This results in a lot of posts with duplicate info and people asking the same questions repeatedly.
I own a Nissan 300zx and am/was a member of www.twinturbo.net. This was a GREAT forum for sharing information, but as the group grew in size the admin duties became too much and the site was shut down. That site had one discussion list for all subjects. There was a great search tool, but newbies and veterans alike didn't use it as much as they should have. This resulted in the same questions being posted over and over; people got tired of it and started flaming. Then admin had to come in and clean up and they were fed up with it. It is terrible that it had to happen that way.
I really like www.f150online.com because their subjects are divided out. If you want to ask a question about exaust (or whatever topic) you go to that topic. Then you can more easily see the posts that relate to you question(s) and people who read that post won't have to read through subjects they are not interested to find what they are looking for.
This is planning ahead, but If we can design the forum well, it will be much more easier to use and to admin, plus it should last much longer.
Ed, GREAT idea on the owners' forum databases for P&A and TSBs!
How many times have I doubled back and skimmed over hundreds of posts to find one in particular that had info I wanted/needed (Example: link to site for extended warranty coverage).
I've kept a handwritten "log" of pertinent info, but it's cumbersome, and I invariably miss things when away from the forum for a period of time.
I posted on the Dakota board (meet the owners) before I read the post in this form to hold off. I know some folks here are working hard to ensure the dakota board is organized. Again, my apologizes.
Been a couple of days since I have read the posts.
Headliner color - my SLT with Power overhead and Agate (pronounced A got ta) has a grey headliner, in bright line or darkness
Dual exhaust - has anyone installed dual exhaust on a 4x4, 4.7L, with Tire and handling package. My dealer's service department said dual exhaust out the rear would not clear the spare tire correctly.
Alarm System - my dealer is ordering a new dash module to correct the NO Security light on the dash. He stated there a 4 different modules for the QC.
I also posted before reading about your troubleshooting...but guys, I can't help it, just a little enthusiasm ran amuck...will restrain myself until you all give the go ahead and lay out some general guidelines.
:-O Man that's what the place is FOR. My posts were just 'informational' and mainly aimed at 'new' guys / gals. ANYONE can and should be posting over there. My comments were simply to get everyone to look at the other groups FIRST, figure out how & what you want to post and then go for it. It's not my (or a_j's or anyone's) club: it's OUR CLUB. If anyone needs to apologize it's me! I simply wanted 'all' to come to the same general conclusion that 'confusion might reign if left unrestrained.' Kinda reminds me of a certain govt. administration. ;-)
As far as general guidelines, that's pretty much it for now. We'll be blending in the spreadsheets & other more 'complicated' stuff as we go. I'm still waiting for a_j to go to work (where his free e:mail access resides - cheap canucks), so he can correspond about certain things we need to do for ya'll. Note: You people are so nice it's gonna give truckers a 'bad' name. Take a walk on the wild side!
Just post already - you all been chewing my [non-permissible content removed] for months to get the group up - so now, go crazy.
For now lets just make sure that we stick to the topics, I'll arrange for a picture posting 101 session to be put into the pictures section - macguy may be best for that as his knowledge of all things technical is some what greater than mine - I only know one line of html!!!! (but it foes post a picture).
what's the benefit of the 3.92 rear end and anti-spin differential? I'm getting a Sport with a 5-speed with the 4.7-liter V-8, intense blue, sport plus package, power convenience group for $20,856, which includes a "mandatory" (according to the salesman) local advertising fee.
i finially took boo's advice and changed from maybequad2000 to qc2001. noticed in the 98 cc truck at work has the agate interior, with the mist grey head liner, go figure. glad to see that the topic is now "quad" specific, although most of the long term information will come from cc's. live long and post.(ha ha, bad humor)
Appraiser, the benefit of a 3.92 would surface when towing. Particularly heavier loads under hilly conditions. It brings the optimum power band into play at a lower speed and higher RPM. It will not be as fuel efficient.
In my estimation; limited slip differential is worth its weight in gold, as it helps prevent a 2WD or 4WD vehicle from being a no WD. If the two wheels on one side are on surfaces that would prompt spinning, then without LSD you are doomed to stay there until you can create tractive effort. With LSD, after the wheel(s) starts to spin, the clutch pack in the LSD causes the wheels on the other side to turn, thus gaining purchase and allowing the vehicle to move. You did not mention whether your Intense Blue beauty was equipped with 2WD or 4WD. Either way, LSD is a worthwhile option. If you don't have it, you will manage to live, as it is not critical to the operation of a vehicle in most conditions. But, it does come in handy! Good luck with your truck.
for the advice. As my Intense Blue Beauty will be a 2WD, it sounds as if LSD could keep me out of trouble. I hate that my fuel economy will suffer with the 3.92; hopefully it will still be in the 16-18 range in mixed conditions. As of right now, I doubt if I will ever tow anything substantial, but who knows what the future may hold? But the fact is, this is the only 5-speed 4.7 on a dealer's lot in the southeast, so beggars can't be choosers in this case. Thanks for the help.
Comments
Domestic auto makers are making such a better product than 10, 15 or 20 years ago. I love my new Dakota Quad. The design, engineering, quality, fit and finish bares virtually no resemblence to my last Chrysler product. 20 some years ago, for a few frustrating months, I owned a '78 Chrysler Cordoba (complete with rich Corinthian leather). The recurring 'exchange' around our house between my wife and I was:
HER: "Honey, I have good news and bad news"
ME: "What's the bad news?"
HER "The Cordoba won't start".
ME: "What's the good news?"
HER: "We'll always know where it is!"
I notice it mostly well after completing a tight turn at corners, or situations similar to backing out of the driveway etc. in either direction. At some point later after I am moving forward in a straight line and I need to adjust the steering wheel to the opposite direction, it will click.
It is supposedly due to slight misalignment of the steering column linkage and is addressed by repositioning a 4 bolt saddle clamp at the underside of the dash. I became aware of the TSB back when we were researching a printout of the infamous "engine ticking" several months ago. My brother-in-law (owns a repair shop)subscribes to a site where he noticed it and mentioned it. At the time I was not too interested but may proceed with the fix.
In fact, for those interested, the web-site is available but you must pay if you wish to stay abreast of the recent (past year or so) TSBs. I know the quarterly CD is about 3-6 months behind the dealership, but the site may be up-to-date. If my memory works the site is www.alldata.com
The quality issue of Ford vs Dodge wasn't a factor to me. We had reservations about Chrysler before we decided to buy a 300M last year. We haven't had one problem with the car. My wife says she will probably want to drive the SuperCrew, I guess I will be left to drive the 300M, what a nice situation to be in.
By the way, do you remember if delivery was any quicker because you ordered through the z-plan
With the E-250 conversion, we got it exactly as ordered in about 14 days. We got the Explorer conversion, and I understand Explorer (in Indiana) always has a lot of chassis/color combinations in stock. So, the prompt delivery of the E-250 was due to Explorer's inventory.
However, in both cases, the dealers gave us the 'red carpet treatment', very attentive to details, etc. Z-plan is a great deal, and thus, I strongly considered the Supercrew. But the Quad just suits our needs perfectly in size, handling, power, options, etc. I have 1000 miles on it now and am very happy with every facet of the Quad.
I also include the "War Dept." (my wife) in decisions. In fact, when we first got married, I told her I would make all the major decisions and she could handle everything else.
Amazingly, in all our time together, we have yet to be faced with a major decision.
Bought in Mid February and I live in Syracuse NY. Nuff said??
Allen-
Bookitty
Bookitty
Anyway, the Quad is always outside. Here in central PA and especially here in the wetlands where I live, there's heavy dew on it every morning. The heated mirrors are great. I squeegy (sp?) off the windows and hit the defrost button. After about 3 miles the mirrors are cleared off completely.
Getting close to 12,000 miles and still love the truck. Just wish themacguy would get his oilfield buddies to lower the price of gas so I could drive more. Don't they know that these high gas prices are playing right into the algore agenda. :-)
I write eductation and training programs buy profession, but have an insatiable appetite for adding new skills to the repetoire... The latest of which is becoming a certified locksmith...
Anyway, I found it interesting that my materials referred to the profit potential afforded by keyless entry systems... That is, since the keyways are rarely used, the mechanisms tend to become inoperable after as little as a year... Locksmith to the rescue when the battery in that key fob runs out of juice and the key doesn't work!!!
The recommendation: "Exercise" the keyways on driver and passenger doors regularly... Plus an occasiional spritz of cleaner/lubricant (such as Lock-Ease).
No big deal... Just thought it was worth mentioning.
Bookitty
Guess we've ALL "been there" under varying circumstances! The QC is the first truck I've had with the remote keyless... And it's already caused its share of embarrassment! Parked the truck in front of a milinary store... Jumped out to duck into the hardware next door... Stuffed the fob into my pocket as I walked... The panic alarm went off just as a woman was leaving the milinary... She dropped her purse, backed up against the wall. I disarmed it and apologized... She was not what I'd call "understanding." Ah well... Aren't these toys fun!!??
1. Discarded the remote and attach the truck key to my two other vehicle keys;
2. Get a spare made by the dealer, took it to the basement and ground off the plastic, placed the "skeleton" key inside my wallet.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a Luddite, but I wanted to minimize the "bulge" in my pocket and it seemed easy enough to got back to the key.
to appraiser--good luck on your search for a 5spd. Many of us ran into the same thing you are encountering which made us have to order. In the long run, I am glad I ordered the Quad that was equipped exactly as I wanted rather than settle for what was on the lot. Of course, I have to admit if I had found a 5spd already on a dealer lot, I would have been tempted. Good luck on your search.
needadakota
ozark - I'll be in So. Colo. at the end of July doing a bit of fossil hunting. Hey, I thought algore was from your neck of the woods-- kinda looks like he 'might' be moving back there soon-- AND I'm pumping every barrel of the nasty stuff (sour crude) out of the ground I can for you & everybody else. I just wish we'd all switch to natural gas! I HATE oil - I'd give it to ya if I could, but my partners' (and the bank) would be a bit mmm... 'disturbed' if I did that.
impy2 - 01's will have at least a grille design change.
guanner - looks like a great (sick) day coming up! Congrats! - about time. But no wheelies... :-))
Sure wish we could've saved balser though. :-(
I guess I'm at the plate again for 4x4.
Full time vs. Part time - go part time. Shifting is easy and the additional maintenance, entry cost and operating cost make the full time system a complete waste of money in my opinion.
The part time system is shift on the fly - anything up to about 50mph, with the wheels straight for safety.
Don't recall exactly what happens with the front axle when in 2wd mode - let me think about it and post later - or someone else can help me out - hell I probably posted it a few months back - jeez this old age is killing my memory.
The automatic hub spins freely (or as close to that as possible given the rules of friction and resistance) and engages automatically when it senses that 4WD high range is selected. The front propeller (drive) shaft is stationary in 2WD. The selection of 4WD high range causes the hubs to lock, thus providing for both propeller (drive) shafts to rotate at the same speed so as to synchronize, allowing the transfer case to engage them simultaneously. I am not certain regarding the sequence of full time 4WD systems. I do feel that in most instances they are superfluous to anyone's needs, save those who are unfamiliar with 4WD. I feel that part time 4WD in conjunction with a limited slip differential would provide a solution to most tractive effort situations. Purely my $.02 worth.
Bookitty
needadakota
Found one scratch on it today near the back passenger door. very minor will probably rub out.. other than that all looks to be good.. thanx for all the good info on this sight..
Scott
Still LOVE the truck. So comfortable, quiet, and FAST! Rear seat passengers marvel at the roll-all-the-way down windows (important to teenagers who are used to being crammed in the back of 4-door Civics, Accords, and Corollas...)
I marvel at the handling, power, gas mileage, utility, and yes, those mighty good looks. Note to all those married men out there-make sure Mama gets taken care of (her choice of vehicle might not be your choice). After choosing the last 4 or 5 vehicles based on my taste, I decided to surprise her with the "green light" on HER dream vehicle, a brand-new, 2000 Mustang GT. 5-speed, leather, 260 HP, yada, yada, yada....Cherry-red, with chrome-dipped 17" alloys. Whew! Talk about a happy lady! (Damn woman would NEVER suggest buying herself, SUCH a martyr...) Ever since I let her drive an old 5.0 sedan (1989) we had, she's had her heart set on this car....She even let me drive it-once. 0-60 in 5.5 seconds. WAY more refined (but not quite as fast) as a Camaro/Firehawk, but we don't "do" GM products anyway...Needless to say, our garage looks quite snappy with a Patriot Blue Quad SLT and that eye-catching Laser Red 'Stang...nuff said.
Happy quadding!
quark - my driver's side passenger door has an electric 'releasing' problem with the double click (have to do it once more for that door). Sounds like 'you da man' on this one. If you figure out a TSB or something, please keep us updated...
pix posting will be relatively simple if you know any html (hypertext markup language). I you don't it'll still be doable. We'll explain all shortly over on the group site. I'm quite sure we'll do a cookie cutter thing for everyone to follow to keep it from getting cluttered and disjointed.
All hail bonnie@edmunds, our hero!
I have an automatic with a 4.7 and I am getting around 18.5 miles per gallon so far. I am shocked on how good gas milage is on this truck.
I would assume we do not want to post the same items into the owners group forum that are posted in the other active Dakota forums. Makes for a lot of redundant reading.
I do have a suggetions I would like you two to consider. In addition to having messages discussing the various accessories, what about having a link to a spreadsheet which contains consoidates the details of the various options.
This linked document could provide a matrix of the Accessories that folks have identified for the truck. For example: Soft Tonneaus, Hard Toneaus, Hitches etc. It could include the Manufacturer, Brand name, mfg website, list price etc. I have started this for myself only for items that have interested me, and have found it useful to reference. I can go to my spreadsheet and look at all of the items in one spot versus having to "locate" and the "read" a multitude of documents to sort out the possible options. I know that this would require some coordination, but could benefit a large community. Obviousl, one link would be too complex for all accessries, so several would have to be set up.
Second, what about a link to a summary list of TSB's that exist. I have a list of them through April '00 and would be williing to type these into a format to set into the link. My list covers the 2000 Quad and also the 1999 Dakota which appers to have some overlap into the Quad- as best I can tell.
Any thoughts on this idea- Up to and including "kill it"!
Ed
I totally agree with your idea. I think the only drawback to these types (edmunds) of discussion groups is that you really have to search to find what you are looking for, even then you may not find it. This results in a lot of posts with duplicate info and people asking the same questions repeatedly.
I own a Nissan 300zx and am/was a member of www.twinturbo.net. This was a GREAT forum for sharing information, but as the group grew in size the admin duties became too much and the site was shut down. That site had one discussion list for all subjects. There was a great search tool, but newbies and veterans alike didn't use it as much as they should have. This resulted in the same questions being posted over and over; people got tired of it and started flaming. Then admin had to come in and clean up and they were fed up with it. It is terrible that it had to happen that way.
I really like www.f150online.com because their subjects are divided out. If you want to ask a question about exaust (or whatever topic) you go to that topic. Then you can more easily see the posts that relate to you question(s) and people who read that post won't have to read through subjects they are not interested to find what they are looking for.
This is planning ahead, but If we can design the forum well, it will be much more easier to use and to admin, plus it should last much longer.
Here's to an awesome Dakota Owner's Forum !!!!
GREAT idea on the owners' forum databases for P&A and TSBs!
How many times have I doubled back and skimmed over hundreds of posts to find one in particular that had info I wanted/needed (Example: link to site for extended warranty coverage).
I've kept a handwritten "log" of pertinent info, but it's cumbersome, and I invariably miss things when away from the forum for a period of time.
The DB has my vote!!
Headliner color - my SLT with Power overhead and Agate (pronounced A got ta) has a grey headliner, in bright line or darkness
Dual exhaust - has anyone installed dual exhaust on a 4x4, 4.7L, with Tire and handling package. My dealer's service department said dual exhaust out the rear would not clear the spare tire correctly.
Alarm System - my dealer is ordering a new dash module to correct the NO Security light on the dash. He stated there a 4 different modules for the QC.
As far as general guidelines, that's pretty much it for now. We'll be blending in the spreadsheets & other more 'complicated' stuff as we go. I'm still waiting for a_j to go to work (where his free e:mail access resides - cheap canucks), so he can correspond about certain things we need to do for ya'll. Note: You people are so nice it's gonna give truckers a 'bad' name. Take a walk on the wild side!
For now lets just make sure that we stick to the topics, I'll arrange for a picture posting 101 session to be put into the pictures section - macguy may be best for that as his knowledge of all things technical is some what greater than mine - I only know one line of html!!!! (but it foes post a picture).
In my estimation;
limited slip differential is worth its weight in gold, as it helps prevent a 2WD or 4WD vehicle from being a no WD. If the two wheels on one side are on surfaces that would prompt spinning, then without LSD you are doomed to stay there until you can create tractive effort. With LSD, after the wheel(s) starts to spin, the clutch pack in the LSD causes the wheels on the other side to turn, thus gaining purchase and allowing the vehicle to move. You did not mention whether your Intense Blue beauty was equipped with 2WD or 4WD. Either way, LSD is a worthwhile option. If you don't have it, you will manage to live, as it is not critical to the operation of a vehicle in most conditions. But, it does come in handy!
Good luck with your truck.
Bookitty