DODGE DAKOTA QUAD CAB

iowabigguy · May 2002

I recall reading a comparison of cat back exhaust systems somewhere a while back that a 3" single exhaust made the most power on the Dakota V8 being tested. I realize that a single exhaust doesn't look as sexy but if it IS more efficient I'd think that would be the way to go. A cat back dual setup shouldn't sound any better because you are not talking about a true dual exhaust. I also don't see any way that you will see a significant improvement in gas mileage. Factory exhaust systems are pretty efficient for a mass produced system. You would pick up some improvement with mandrel bent pipe and a muffler with less back pressure than the factory unit but if there is any improvement in mileage I'd bet it would be fractional at best. I suspect there will be an actual decrease in MPG because it will sound so good you will have your foot in it most of the time. Rick

gator72 · May 2002

Mick,

My cover was an accessory from my Dodge dealer; made to fit the QC. Don't know the brand name. But, it is the same one shown in all of the Dakota brochures; must be approved by DC. Total price, installed, was about $725.00

Dealer installed it. They had to drill holes along the top sides of the box to install the rails that hold/guide the cover.

Dealer did a pretty good job. BUT, they candidly admitted that they had never installed one before. Put a small scratch on tailgate; and, intially forgot to install the rear lock.

The cover has 2-locks; one at the front on the driver's side and one in the rear center. The dealer bolted on two small bars (2") that slightly protrude; one bolted onto front of box just beneath front lock and one on tailgate just below other lock. When the key is turned, an L shaped piece of metal slides in the center of the protruding bar referenced above. Sounds complicated, but it is really not. One picture is worth 1,000 words.

When the rear is locked, it prevents the tailgate from being lowered. They can pull on the handle all day long. Still won't open!

The key looks like an old fashioned skate key.

The cover has 3-sliding retainers on each rail to keep the cover from vibrating or flying up.

The cover is attached to the body by 2 C-clamps; one on each side. Easy to unclamp. But, takes two people to lift it off; (weighs @ 100 lbs.) It's not too heavy; but, it is bulky - just waiting for a chance to slip and nick your paint job! That's why you need two to take it off.

There is a slight (1/2") gap under the lip at both ends to accomodate a bedliner. I don't have a bedliner. About a teacup of water would get in during heavy rain, so I installed a 1/8" wide marine weatherstrip along the front and rear edges. I got the Marine weatherstrip at Home Depot; $3.00 for a huge roll - got plenty left over.

Would I do it all again? Heck yes! I like to lock up my purchases when I go shopping; away from prying eyes. Can't get that kind of security in one of those soft covers.

Several truck owners have stopped me in parking lots to ask me where I got the cover, etc. Once you see it, it sells itself.

briski · May 2002

I am interested in the Dakota QC but I am uncertain if I want the 4x4. I like the appearance of the 4x4 over the 4x2 but would rather have the better mpg of the 4x2 6 cyl.

Question 1 If I get the 4x2 can I put a lift kit on it to raise it up to look like the 4x4. If so would I void any warranty from the manufacturer?

Question 2 If I did add a lift kit how much would this cost and would it look identical to 4x4 when finished or is there something in appearance that I am missing?

Thanks

iowabigguy · May 2002

" I like the appearance of the 4x4 over the 4x2 but would rather have the better mpg of the 4x2 6 cyl. "
I think you will find the 4.7l v8 to be the preferred choice. It gets better gas mileage than the 3.9l v6. I have also seen discussed in the Dodge Dakota Owners forum that the 4x4 and the 4x2 get nearly identical mileage. I would suggest if you like the looks of the 4x4 buy it. You will be happier in the end.
I have 2000 Quad Cab with the 4.7l v8, 5 speed transmission and 3.55 rear end ratio. At a constant 55 mph on 2 lane blacktop roads I can get 21 mpg. 65 mph on interstates gives me 18.5 to 19.5 mpg. 75mph on interstates yields 17.5 to 18.5 mpg. Easy driving in a city environment I can get 16.5 to 17.5. Lots of stop and go and zooming from stoplight to stoplight drops mileage into the 13 to 15 mpg range. Rick

joehoe · May 2002

I've had my '93 CC for nearly 10 years (with few complaints)

I doubt the dealer will be real anxious to give much - if anything - on trade.

Selling it yourself is such a PAIN !!

Anybody know much about donating your vehicle as a tax write-off?
I've seen billboards about donating it to an organization affiliated with lung cancer (I think it is)

You can write off up to $2500 - which is very close to the blue book value at this time.

I appreciate any feedback

Joe

bookitty · May 2002

Brian, depending upon where you live and use your truck, or how you use your truck, will help in the determination of the drive system. Rick (iowabigguy) has offered very good advice in that the typical mileage between the V6 and the 4.7 V8 is in favor of the V8. There is very little if any difference between the 2WD and 4WD (at least for the part time 4WD) in reported fuel economy. As a general rule, any modification can void the manufacturers warranty. Even problems that may occur that would be totally divorced from the modification would be deemed as cause for voiding a warranty repair. I have a 2000 Quad, 4.7, 4X4 with 3.55 LSD with manual 5 speed transmission and the mileage is right in the ball park with Rick's truck.

Bookitty

tuvtest · May 2002

I've done some research into this area, including consulting with a lawyer in my car club. Any change you make to your truck will not neccessarily void the warrenty. the only way it will is IF THE MODIFICATION CAN BE DIRECTLY LINKED TO THE WARRENTY RELATED DAMAGE. for example; You can have a supercharger sticking three feet out of the hood, a lift kit, and big tires, but your alternator frys, the dealer must replace it under warrenty. On the flip side, you put a lift kit on and there is a problem with the steering or suspension, you would be stuck paying for the repairs.

Now, as we have all experienced, dealers don't like to deal with true warrenty repairs even when the truck is dead stock. Many will try to say that by modifying the truck you void the warrenty, but they are just blowing smoke. By law they have to fix it, providing the exceptions above. Do your research and know your rights, and you'll be OK.

briski · May 2002

I am thinking about waiting until the 2003 QC's come out before I buy. Does anyone have any information on if there will be any significant changes for the 2003 model? Also, when do the new models show up at the dealers (Aug. Sep. Oct.)?

Thanks for the advice.

bookitty · May 2002

Harold, good job on researching this particular subject. I have never gone beyond the dealer so I thought it actually voided the warranty. Thank you for the input.

Bookitty

cyberdad2 · May 2002

(AS POSTED IN THE OWNERS CLUB)

Whew! Its been exactly 2 years since I started my hunt for a vehicle to replace an 88 Corsica (203K).

We put off purchasing while my smart wife went back to school full-time to get a masters degree.

As I have been picking up the slack with house chores and the 3 yr old, I haven't been keeping up with the goings-on here...

We'll need to by a used QC. Could someone share their opinion as to whether the 2001/2 models have improved much over the 2000 - or is the model year I was originally looking at (2000) a good used purchase?

Thanks for your input. Its GREAT to be back!!!
------
Latest development. A dealer offered to order a new 2002 for invoice minus the 2K cash allowance and including the 7yr/100k powertrain protection.

Is this an offer to jump on?
------
Thanks for any suggestions,
Cyberspace Steve

bookitty · May 2002

Steve, Jump! Don't forget the Farm Bureau $500.00
voucher. If the dealer orders, you will have time to apply.

Bookitty

bcarter3 · May 2002

It is getting quite close to the cutoff date for ordering 2002 vehicles. I'm not sure just when it is but I seem to remember some posts regarding this in May of last year.

dustyk · May 2002

What's the current opinion of owners regarding newer Dakota models? Have they resolved some earlier quality issues?

I'm considering a RAM 1500 QuadCab because the box would allow me to load my ATV and close the tailgate. However, the Dakota QC's lighter weight would produce better fuel consumption, and quite frankly, the smaller Dakota would be a easlier handling and thus appealing to the wife. Also, the Dakota is less expensive.

Although most people I talk to are very pleased with their Dakotas -- especially the newer ones -- I am still concerned about what I perceived to be some component quality and assembly quality problems.

Newer owners, what's your opinion?

Thanks in advance,
Dusty

mopar67 · May 2002

these are my opinions only and not meant to counter what others have said.

I had a 2000 Dak, 4.7 auto, CC, air tilt cruise the whole bit.
I had 4 sets of rotors and drums replaced during the first 26K due to warpage.
I've had the camshaft position sensor replaced at about 5K Plus an AIS motor twice to cure the crappy idle.
I had three flashes to the PCM in order to keep the motor from stalling out at stoplights and during initial startup.
I had a 45RFE auto that never shifted smoothly despite numerous debates with the dealer and a printed TSB that specifically addressed the issue. The issue was a very rough and harsh 2-3 upshift. Now I've been around cars for quite a few years and I know darn well that it was "not functioning as designed" (quote from a "technician")
I had the wiper switch replaced to cure mysterious behavior of the interval wipers.
I had it in twice to attempt to cure a rather ugly clunk in the front end during turns and also during brake application. This issue was never fixed properly.
In the end, I got fed up with it all and traded it in on a vitara ( a hamster if there ever was one).
No, I am not singing praises on Asian vehicles......just yet....my jury is still out on this one. This is my first Asian vehicle.

There you go....my thoughts.....overall the Dak was once nice truck but too much cost cutting in the wrong areas resulted in a truck where the whole was less than the sum of its parts. Now, I will make a payment or pay out the wazoo in repairs but I simply refuse to do both. Which is why I bought new in the first place.
BTW......my truck, god bless it, was built on a Friday!

PPS I outlined these issues in a letter to DC in greater detail and threw in some not so nice commentary on the way DC was running its operations.

I've yet to hear back from them.

furrydog1 · May 2002

Bought our '02 4x4, Auto, 3.55 QUAD in December and haven't had any major problems yet at 7800 miles. The only minor problem was a check engine light that came on but was fixed quickly by the dealership. My wife loves it and says their isn't any other vehicle out there that she would want (she's the primary driver). It rides nice, has plenty of power, looks awesome, fits plenty of people and carts the dogs around quite nicely. Granted, we've only had it for 5 months, so we'll see if I'm singing the same tune in another 10K miles.

henne · May 2002

Well all I have to say is it is the best looking and best riding and most competent compact truck on the market and I absolutly love that. Now, with that said, I had a 96 and within 10k miles I had to get rid of it because dodge could never fix it. I tried again on a 2000 quad and luckily I found out about the lemon laws and dodge bought it back within 20k and now I am on a 2001 and I have had so many things with it that I dont even want to talk about the things that the dealer did wrong to it. Me, NEVER AGAIN. STRIKE 3 AND IM OUT. i have never loved something so much and hated it at the same time!!!!!!!!!!!!

Robert

cyberdad2 · May 2002

Well I Jumped on down to the dealer the next day to have him order a 2002, invoice, minus 2K, plus 7yr/100K powertrain. He said that he was wrong about being able to order - that they were cut off a few days ago.

He has 2 already in BX and BG status and is calling today to see if their configuration can be changed.

My problem with current stock on the lots is that my wife is un-wavering regarding 4 wheel ABS because we'll be doing alot of driving.

X-ing my fingers...

Cyberdad Steve

txyank1 · May 2002

was the end of May. But I could be wrong......... at least this once. Maybe. Good luck in finding what you want.

tclemons · May 2002

I just donated a vehicle to Salvation Army on 20 May. It was a 1988 Ford Bronco II with transmission problems (belonged to my son). When they picked up the vehicle, they game me a receipt with the VIN#, title #, mileage, etc., but no value. The donor determines the value. I went to Edmunds and KBB and determined the value that I will deduct from my taxes. I donated a 1986 Mazda 626 a couple of years ago to the Jewish Heritage for the Blind and when they picked up the Mazda, they gave me a receipt plus a xeroxed copy from the NADA Blue (actually orange) book. This is a good way to get rid of a vehicle that you don't want/need anymore and it will help someone else. Hope this helps.

tclemons · May 2002

Actually donated it on 13 May. Was supposed to do it on 20 May and S/A requested a change. Man, I hate those senior moments!!!

ford_bii · May 2002

I still have my '86 Bronco II. Still drive it about 3 days a week. Never realized how great of a vehicle they are to drive until I got the Quad. What do I like most about the B2 vs the Dakota? The length of the shifter throw. I'm still considering the Hurst shifter for the Dakota, but I can't seem to get any decent opinions on it.

Just to chime in, I have 14k on my Quad and all I've had go wrong was a bad vacuum hose that went at like 6k and was making a loud puffing noise. No other problems so far. Not a bad vehicle. I think the drive train is a little loose for my 5-speed tastes, but as long as it holds up I'm fine with it.

gator72 · May 2002

I just read mopar67's post @ "crappy idle" and how he got it fixed. BTW: What is an AIS motor?

I love my QC, but the crappy idle is driving me nuts. (2001 QC-Plus, HD, 4.7L, auto, 2-wd) I just rolled up on 17K miles.

When sitting at stop signs or lights, it idles rough. When A/C compressor is off, idle drops to 500 rpm; rough idle AND almost stalls.

Took it back to my "five-star" dealer @ 3x and was told I'm overfiling gas tank. So, for the past 4 months, I've been careful not to "top off" the tank. Problem is only getting worse. Rough idle more pronounced.

I buy gas at same Shell dealer all the time; as does my wife. Her Jimmy never idles rough. So, I don't think it's bad gas.

I put STP fuel injector cleaner. No results.

Any suggestions?????

sunburn · May 2002

I bought my 2002 QC, 4x4, 4.7L, auto, 3.92 in November 2001. I haven't had any significant problems in almost 7K miles. I have had the "check Engine" light come on twice for a small leak in the evaporative emissions system. Took it back to the dealer the first time. No problem was found. The second time, I just reset the computer. Hasn't reoccurred since. The drivetrain does have some quirks: 1) the idle is rough at times. The idle speeds drops from the normal 600 RPM, to around 450-500 RPM when stopped. Seems to be a common problem. 2) the drivetrain occassionally "jerks" when driving between 50-55 MPH. Only seems to happen once every now and then. 3) Rough transmission downshifts. This happened more when the truck was new than it does now. Haven't really noticed in the last 4K miles. 4) The gas mileage is very erratic. One week it is 12.5, the next it is 14.3 with the same driving. Average in mixed driving (60% highway, 40% suburban) has been about 13.8. The only other complaint that I have is the paint. It seems to get scratched if you just look at it the wrong way. It has already taken quite a beating with two small kids. On the plus side, the truck is comfortable, quiet, rides nice, plenty of power, and hauls 4 people and lots of "stuff". Will it hold up as well as my 1990 Toyota 4x4 did after 186K miles? Probably not. As long as it doesn't nickel and dime me to death, I'll be happy. Time will tell.

mopar67 · May 2002

the issue. When I get a chance, I will delve into alldata (I have a subscription) and dig it out for you.
That the dealer tells you that you are filling the tank too much is pure baloney! Next time, ask for wheat bread and mayo and go make a sandwich.
YOu sometimes have to throw a royal fit to get them to do stuff.
Remember, warranty work is not what pays their bills. Its "after" warranty work that brings home their bacon.
Ask ahasher about his idle and the crap he had to go thru to get it fixed.
Sometimes I feel that about 50% of my frustration was due to the dealer.
Stay tuned.

steve234 · May 2002

The trick to dealing with a lemon is finding who can make good lemonade. At 38k, I love my Quad. There are no perfect vehicles, but having a mechanic that can fix a problem without reading his 'Car Repairs for Dummies' is the biggest asset a dealer can have. My big priority anymore is to check out the dealer and his shop. I have driven 135 miles to get my vehicles fixed for the last ten years and don't regret the effort.

dustyk · May 2002

I thought I'd get more responses, but thanks to those that did.

Surprisingly, most of the people I've talked to appear to be very pleased with their Dakotas. And I know a fair number that are on their 2nd, or 3rd and even fourth Dakota. Although, I detect a similar pattern with S-10 owners even after they tell me about replacing a couple of engine computers or transmissions or engines that use too much oil and a plethora of other problems. I suspect that for reasons other than reliability both of these vehicles have reasons for being well liked.

Still, I think I've talked to more Dakota owners who are telling me that their reliability experience is very good to problem free.

I've been looking back at earlier posts on this subject. One comment about brakes. While the level of premature rotor/brake replacement seems unreasonably high on the Dakota, the Dakota isn't the only popular vehicle to suffer in this area. I'm hearing the same complaints from Grand Cherokee, S-10, F150, Ford Explorer and even Tundra owners. Before we were married, my wife put 86,000 miles on a Dodge Charger and only replaced one set of rotors and pads.

None of this is being offered as an excuse for the Dakota by any means. This problem should not be this frequent on any vehicle. Oddly enough, I haven't heard this complaint from any Durango owner and I would suspect they use the same brake components.

I think I'll stick to my original plan of either a RAM 1500 Quad or the F150 SuperCrew.

Thanks for your opinions.

Regards,
Dusty

mopar67 · May 2002

I am impressed with the amount of research you have conducted on this topic. You sure went the extra mile to be well informed.
Good luck with your decision.

BTW>......the RAM has whopping 13 inch rotors.....makes me wonder if DC learned their lesson on the prev gen rams?

bpeebles · May 2002

I was looking at a friends new GMC sonoma (same as Chevy s10) Starting this year... they have 4 WHEEL DISK BRAKES.

BTW... My 2000 Dakota has over 30,000 miles with NO problems with warped rotors. I will gladly GIVE AWAY my perfect stock rotors soon.

I will be replacing them with POWERSLOT as soon as I find a source for the Raybestos ceramic pads. I went to NAPA and they claimed to have orderd them for me... a week later they gave up and told me that they could not get them from ANYWHERE in the country.

mopar67 · May 2002

you know.................moot point at this time!

stnick · May 2002

Well, I am on my 2nd QC but I just traded my 2000 for a 2002 only a few weeks ago, so Can't give you a reading on how the new one will come out. I did not however, get the 02 because I was unhappy with the 00. The one big thing for me I guess is that I love the ride, handeling, looks, and particularly the size of the Quad cab. There just really isn't much else out there that compares in this size of truck. The new one has a few more bells, most notably, AWD 4x4 . So far with about 1000 miles on it the milage is as good if not slightly better than the 02 part time 4x4 was, and I kept very good records of that. I had some problems with the first one, but not enough to scare me away. With all the rebates, and free 7yr,100k warranty, it would have been hard to wait for the 03, not knowing what incentives if any will be offered. I will continue to report back here with any problems that arise as I know I am one of the few here that have had 2 QC's. Good luck on what ever truck you choose, Nick.

ahasher · May 2002

I step from behind the lurkers curtain. I too have contemplated powerslots and Raybestos Ceramic.. just havent allotted the $$ yet. However bpeebles, I saw and handled a set of Raybestos ceramic a few weeks back at Pep Boys. They had the Raybestos ceramic on display on a peg rack behind the counter, I asked if they had the QC listing, they did, and I got to "window shop". I should have bought on the spot but oh well hind sight.
52,000 miles and no problems. No rattles, no idle problems (mopoar67.. at least that fix worked) no brake problems except for my chirping on occasion now. Tires look like they can go till fall.. no unusual wear from alignment.. a very nice level wear pattern. Bosch +4 plugs performing beautifully.. great acceleration and poser. Mileage constant at 18/19 or so highway..

However on problem I have is that bugs still have the nerve to muck up the front and windshield even after a day of cleaning and waxing.. ;-0 turning a 3 beer job into 4..
way to go bugs!

steve234 · May 2002

My gas mileage this past Saturday was attrocious. I only got 8.4 mpg. Of course, hauling a 4500 lb boat with a barn door 8x10 frontal area at 65 mph may have something to do with it. The 4.7 pulled it without a complaint. Like a beautiful date, it may me paid for the priveledge.

stnick · May 2002

Steve, you would have done much better on milage if the boat had been out of the water. All that excess drag you know.

bookitty · May 2002

Steve, I too experienced extremely poor mileage when towing my boat. Then, my uncle suggested that I get a trailer. Mileage improved significantly, and it's a lot easier on the bottom of the boat. Just thought I would share.

Bookitty

jhorl · May 2002

I got my ceramic pads from A&A Auto parts stores in Stroudsburg PA. The part number is PGD820QS, (Raybestos). The phone number is (570) 424-0776.
I'm sure with a credit card number they would be more than willing to ship anywhere.
P.S..The pads were 77.89.
John

bpeebles · May 2002

I appreceate all of the pointers for Raybestos ceramic pads.

Unfortunatly, Pep Boys have not found their way to Vermont yet. I may consider calling A&A tho...
NAPA quoted me $75... but could not get them.

My powerslot rotors look lonely in the shipping cartons... I check on them occasionally and promise myself to get those pads. ;-)

I also plan on finding a REDLINE oil source to change my differentials, Xfer case and 5SP tranny.

jhorl · May 2002

(bpeebles) I got my Redline 75w90 for the rear diff from A&A also. They never seem to let me down. Good thing my inlaws live in PA because from my house on Long Island its a good 150 miles to the store.

gregp5 · May 2002

Boo,

Justed wanted to say I love your sense of humor, having also grown up watching the Stooges.

Ah well, gota look for that shut off valve now. I'll find it if it kills me.....

hasel · May 2002

You can get Red Line Products at Summit Racing Equipment, (Summitracing.com).

gregp5 · May 2002

Boo,

Justed wanted to say I love your sense of humor, having also grown up watching the Stooges.

Ah well, gota look for that shut off valve now. I'll find it if it kills me.....

cyberdad2 · May 2002

Sometimes there is a silver lining to bad things that happen. The dealer I was working with found a Quad with 4 wheel ABS (the only one in 7 states, he said) and bumped his asking price - as well as having me add the alarm and towing packages on top of that.

In frustration, my wife and I looked at our second choice (F150 SuperCrew) and happened to find a new 2001 on a lot which met all our requirements, for $160 less than the 2002 Quad. We own it now.

Thanks for everyone who shares experiences and knowledge on this board (the best I've seen). I'm planning on keeping in touch as the topics discussed here cross vehicle lines, and can be applied to all truck owners.

No hard feelings, please... Hopefully our new vehicle will hold up as well as your's have.

Cyberdad Steve

bookitty · May 2002

Steve, good luck with your new truck. This reinforces what we often think about many car and truck dealers. Don't forget to honk your horn and wave to that dealer when you drive by. Hey Steve, you're happy, we're happy. Stay in touch and let us know how you like the truck.

Bookitty

ford_bii · May 2002

You did excellent if you picked up a Supercrew for that price.

I would have taken a supercrew over the quad hands down, if the price had been a little less and they would have offered a 5-speed in it.

My dad has had 3 F-150s, 1 Bronco, and 1 F-250 superduty over the past 15 years. I can honestly say the quality has been great. He has driven each one for over 100k miles, except for the Superduty, but he just got that one.

Good luck!

franzia · May 2002

Well after owning a 2000 Dakota Club Cab, I finally bought a new 2002 Quad Cab. I couldn't pass up on the 7/100,000 or the rebate. Also, I got a 4 day 3 night trip to one of three resorts free. I felt I got a good deal too. They gave me 2,000 off the sticker, not counting the rebate of another 2,000 and 16,000 for my truck. The new quad has every option but the 5.9, rear window defroster, and the 3.92's. I love it, especially the 4.7. Had a few minor things wrong, but no show stoppers. I hope this truck was a reliable as my 2000.

bookitty · May 2002

Tony, congratulations and good luck. Actually, unless you are towing monster loads, the 5.9 and the 3.92 rear is not only unnecessary, but a detriment to mileage. The 4.7 is a great engine. Give us some details, 4X4, 4X2, Color, transmission, etc.

Bookitty

franzia · May 2002

Bookitty, I remember you from long ago when I was a closet quadder. I remember when you got your first quad and it had the 3.92's and you turned it down to order another. Well any way my truck is a 4 x 4 Slt plus. White and silver. I wasn't to keen on white, but once you see it with the two-tone and black door guards it is quite stunning. My truck has taupe leather buckets, Full time 4wd, Auto, overhead power convenece group (love the universal remotes), 4 wheel abs, secureity system with those special keys, trailer tow package, heavy duty service group, Stereo with cd cassette, Infinity speakers, steering wheel audio controls, 4.7l, and electric seat. I think I'm missing a few items, because I don't have the sticker in front of me. Like I said, it's loaded.

bookitty · May 2002

Tony, your truck is loaded. So, you remember when the "idiot" placed my order and changed it because he couldn't read codes. Well, I sent lots of people to the dealership, and told them if he approached them to ask if he could help, just respond that you seriously doubt it. They did just that. Sounds like a beautiful and very functional mount. Enjoy it and stay safe.

Bookitty

surffla1 · June 2002

Still lurking myself. No big problems. I also have HD, Tow, Tire & Handling, LSD. Hoping a little problem doesn't grow into a big one. I have felt a slight pull to the right. Nothing major but more noticeable at interstate speeds. Alignment checked @ around 7,500 miles under warranty, was told "dead on". "Feathering" on right front tire, tech. suggested balance and rotation even though had just had it done at 6000 miles. Followed his advice and went to my local Goodyear dealer where I have lifetime rotation and balance. Seems to be better but still slight pull. One thing the 5 star Dodge tech. said I wanted some opinions on.... He said the way Dakotas and Rams are set up there is a natural pull to the right that can be more noticeable on roads with a right slope for drainage. Ran that by a trusted grease monkey friend who said that may be true as his experience w/Ford Trucks has been similar. What do you think guys? My next rotation I'm going to have the goodyear dealer re-check the alignment. Will be interesting to see if any "feathering." Other than that only minor gripe is a radio antennae that is already showing rust. Have also noted some of the rubber weather stripping (front windshield) has exposed ends (can see the metal edge inside) is that something to worry about? 4.7 manual running like a dream. Making the switch to synthetic oil at upcoming change.

quark99 · June 2002

Hi All...
Well, took home the new quad:
Graphite 4.7L Auto Sport Plus, LSD, 3:55, Tow, all power options, leather, and Dual Exhaust and Line-X (was the dealership's owner's truck, so he added the extras). Paid $350 under invoice, due to the few miles on the truck.
Taking delivery on the new boat on Saturday, 2002 Larson SEI 1800, (4.3L V6, seats 8, weight of boat 2300#, w/trailer about 2950#). Added Fish Finder, Marine Radio w/8' whip antenna, spare for the trailer, Bimini Top, bow cover, hour meter, surge brakes, to the boat package, so OTD was $18,900 on the boat.
I guess I'm ready for salmon fishing, delta cruising, and lake waterskiing.
Anyway, let's hope the Quad holds together as well as the old one (2000 PB 4.7L SLT Plus Auto 3:55 Tow, yada, yada, yada)
-Skip

bookitty · June 2002

Skip, good luck with your new truck and boat. Don't forget to slide the boat off of the trailer when putting it overboard. It really helps.

Bookitty

DODGE DAKOTA QUAD CAB

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