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23:14:05 - 04/25/2024
General Dakota Board
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Brent Roth
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
13:03:25
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 Subject: Looking for Dakota, but
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Message:
I was wondering if anybody here could tell me what to look for (or out for). I am looking for a Dodge Dakota extended cab, or the 4 door. I occasionally tow a 8 foot popup camper, and sometimes haul a motorcycle (possibly at the same time). Is the Dakota up to it? Is the V8 the only choice or will a 6 suffice? Is there a year range to avoid? Transmission has to be automatic, as I can't get my wife to learn to shift. Also, how is the back seat legroom on the extended cab? Mostly kids under 10 would be back there, but I'm not ruling out the occasional adult.
Thanks,
Brent Roth
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BillPa
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
13:30:30
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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My niece bought a 2001 4 door-4X4-V8 Dak late last year with 13K miles for $16,500. That thing is loaded with about every option you can imagine.
I don't know where your from, but in this area of Pa., the prices are deflated on used vehicles and you can get some pretty good deals. If you doing any towing I would opt for the V8, although the fuel mileage will suffer somewhat. My advice on the cab is to go for the 4 door over the X-cab, especially if you might haul adults. I have a X-cad and its tight for a grown person back there. I'm 6' 252 lbs and was quite comfortable in the back of the 4 door.
Bill
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CThomp
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
13:33:08
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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I have a 4.7L '00 2wd LSD 3.92 5spd. I can pull a 20ft aquasport center console fishing boat no problem with it in 5th gear. Granted this is over flat ground. I got 14mpg during the 3.5 hour trip across Florida on the back highways. I'd say go with the V8 because you'll have the available power and it gets the same mpg as the V6.
As for the extended cab...I don't haul many people though there is room in the back for one large adult (I sat back there comfortably once and i'm 6'2 200lbs) or two small adults (as in small women). I'm sure a couple of 10 year olds would have no problem back there.
I've had myself, a friend (up front), and our girlfriends (in the extended cab) and drove around town in decent comfort. The driver and front passenger just have to be prepared to give a little space to the rear passengers.
My girl is only 5'3 110lbs though so she fits back there no problem.
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Texas Todd
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
14:14:32
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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BillPa,
Said:"If you doing any towing I would opt for the V8, although the fuel mileage will suffer somewhat."
Bill, why you go and lie like that? the 4.7 gets BETTER mileage than that chopped off 8, made into a 6! AND better power for towing, etc.
That's hilarious, all the people that got a v6, 'cause they thought it would get better gas mileage! DON'T EVEN CONSIDER A V6 IN A DAK, ESPECIALLY QUAD CAB, AND/OR TOWING!!!!!!!
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Texas Todd
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
14:15:59
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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In fact Bill,
If your 'niece', yea, that's what I call her too, got a v6, it's not too late, trade it back in, quick!!
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AL
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2003
17:47:13
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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Message:
I dont think the back seat in the club cab is suitable for any humans. Its too small and you have to put the seats up to get in. Go for the Quad Cab, your children will be much happier without the back of your seat in their face.
If your motorcylcle wont fit in the back, then you need a Ram.
just my opinion, AL
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STS
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2003
12:42:18
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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Hey Brent.
I currently own a Club cab (94 model) Dakota thats got a great running 318 v8 (160K the engine and tranny). The only problem I have with is that sometimes the transmission wants to be a bit.ch and not shift when I want it to and its turnning radious is about as wide as mack truck. Its a 4x4 so it does burn a bit more gas than a 2x4. I AVG 16 MPG.
If you got the money to spend I would recomend a a Dakota Club cab 2x4...3.55 gears and it would make since to get one with a v8 (because the V6 gets the same millage) Also might want to look into ordering a High Output 4.7 (287) engine if you need the extra tourqe to pull your camper.
Also if your wife dosn't want to shift then get the optional 5 speed auto (5-45 REF) this would be a more suitable tranny for towing since you got a lower first gear.
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Clark
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2003
15:13:56
| RE: Looking for Dakota, but
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My new QuadCab 4x4 won't arrive for another few days. I originally wanted a ClubCab, and test drove all 3 body styles (RC, QC, CC). I didn't want to give up any (1'3")cargo box area, and I like the looks of the CC.
My wife and I test drove a CC and during the test drive I stopped the truck and got into the back on the passenger side, and had her drive. I am 5'10" 190lbs and I was CRAMPPED. It was difficult getting into the back, but it takes a contortionist to get out gracefully. The CC rear is for very infrequent or emergency occupancy, or for carrying cargo. Without a third door though, it is even inconvenient to store large items such as golf clubs.
I decided that I would rather have the QuadCab which is easier to put groceries and other stuff in the rear seat, and it has plenty of room for people. I will get a trailer for when I need to haul long lumber, or one of my seven motorcycles.
I prefer to be able to bring a couple of buddies in comfort on a fishing trip rather than have an extra foot of box. The QC costs more, and should have a V8, but, I believe, is unique in its ability to be a midsize truck that can carry six and tow 6,000lbs (with 3.92 gears).
The kids will ride more peacefully in the QC rear, and the front seat occupants won't have to constantly get in and out of their seat to drop kids off, for potty breaks on roadtrips, or out for ice cream, etc.
If you can swing a QC then go for it.
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