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Joshua
Dodge Dakota
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2/02/2007
10:44:29

Subject: 2008 Dokota
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Its starting to look like the new durangos front end.I heard the 4.7 is getting a upgrade to the dual overhead cams 3 inch valves puting out 50 more ponies bout the same torque thoe. http://blogs.edmunds.com/Straightline/1977



STS
Dodge Dakota
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2/02/2007
16:32:07

RE: 2008 Dokota
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well that sucks!! So your talking about 280 HP and the same 290 ftlbs toruqe? I'm buying a Nissan for sure! And they couldn't make it look any worse so why even bother to worry about the exterior.



Marv
Dodge Dakota
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2/02/2007
18:44:26

RE: 2008 Dokota
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How did they get more than one 3-inch valve in those cylinders?



OBIO3
Dodge Dakota
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2/02/2007
19:11:29

RE: 2008 Dokota
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I plan to drive my 99 5.2L 4x4 CC till the wheels fall off. It's the best truck I ever owned . No problems other then the rotors. That was 55,000 miles ago. I traded my 97 Nissan truck on this Dodge. If Dodge doesn't get on the stick and make a good looking Dakota again I'll be going back to Nissan. My Nissan never even had A single warranty repair But only had 27,000 when traded in.



.boB
Dodge Dakota
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2/03/2007
14:57:27

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Diesel option? No? Sorry, not interested.



GraphiteDak
GenIII
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2/04/2007
00:18:14

RE: 2008 Dokota
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STS, the Nissan (Titan) is about a Liter LARGER of an engine (and the most PU$$Y of rear axles making it worthless) and try finding the engine under all of the plastic, vacuum lines, and wiring on a Nissan. No thanks.
About time Dodge pays attention to the 4.7 a little more.

I agree. NO ROOM for 3" valve springs. Unless the DOHC has more room than the SOHC heads.




911mike
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2007
02:35:54

RE: 2008 Dokota
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maybe original poster meant 3 valves per cylinder?

3 inch valves...
the original 426 cubic inch Hemi (7 litres) had 2.25" intakes



Blakdak06
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2007
12:25:07

RE: 2008 Dokota
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pictures here
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070204/AUTO01/702040341




1hotkadota
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2007
13:23:13

RE: 2008 Dokota
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It looks kinda weird. Reminds me of a Nitro, but the new V8 sounds good to me. I wonder if we could transplant those heads on to our engines?



GraphiteDak
GenIII
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2/04/2007
15:07:28

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Dude. The thing is STILL Ugly and now the front end looks LESS DODGE and MORE Honda!!! WTF???


Now this may be true...

"Demand for the Dakota, which was redesigned in 2003, dropped 26.9 percent last year, according to Autodata Corp., which tracks vehicle sales."

I got the 2003 which was the last of the GOOD LOOKING Gen-III design.

And if you're like me, you are not going to trade in your nice looking Gen III for a funky looking Gen IV when there is plenty of life in what we have! I'll invest in a Turbo to get more power before I trade it!



Blakdak06
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2007
16:57:54

RE: 2008 Dokota
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I see a couple of flaws. The gen 4 was in 2005 not 2003.
I have heard that the 3.7 was to be replaced by a 4 liter v6 with 250 hp thus the need for the 4.7 to get a power boost. I still feelt the addtional money should have been invested to fit the hemi in there.



Josh
Dodge Dakota
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2/04/2007
23:45:58

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Yes you are right 2008 the 3.7 will no longer be standard in the dokota they are replacing it with the 4.0 6 cylinder.The same motor thats in my wifes Jeep cherikee Sport.



foxx
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
03:40:08

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Here some more detailed news from my employer :)

2008 Dodge Dakota
- More power combined with bold styling, versatility and capability

- New 4.7-liter V-8 engine with 290 horsepower (25 percent increase) and 320 lb.-ft. of torque (10 percent increase), with better fuel economy and increased refinement—the only V-8 option available in the segment

- First-for-the-segment standard remote starter
- All-new exterior in Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles
- New interior features greatest space of any mid-size truck, with 30 cubic feet of interior space in Extended Cab models; 37.1 cubic feet for Crew Cab
- The largest and longest standard cargo bed in its class: 6-foot-6-inches in the Extended Cab
- Best-in-class towing capability of up to 7,050 pounds
- New features include built-in cargo-box utility rails, heated bench seats, under-seat storage system

Chrysler Group unveiled the new 2008 Dodge Dakota mid-size truck with a new engine that not only offers 25 percent more horsepower and 10 percent more torque, but also better fuel economy and increased refinement.
The 2008 Dodge Dakota also features new exterior and interior styling, and many best-in-class capabilities. The new truck arrives in dealerships in August.

New for 2008 are striking exterior and interior enhancements that bear signature Dodge styling cues while creating a new persona for Dakota.

"The new 2008 Dodge Dakota was redesigned to broaden its appeal to younger customers with active lifestyles," said Tom Loveless, Director—Dodge Marketing and Global Communications. "Dodge Dakota will attract 25- to 35-year-old individuals who need a vehicle to meet a variety of needs. Depending on an owners' lifestyle, the 2008 Dodge Dakota may be equipped for work or play, but every Dakota is equipped with capability and versatility."
Powertrain selections

Dodge trucks have always earned a reputation as bold, powerful and capable. The powerful and capable parts of the equation in the 2008 Dodge Dakota begin with powertrain choices, which include a new V-8 engine—the only V-8 option available in the mid-size pickup segment.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter High Output engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement. The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI®), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 290 horsepower, a 25 percent increase; and 320 lb.-ft. of torque, a 10 percent increase. The new engine is also capable of operating on E85 ethanol fuel, making the Dodge Dakota equipped with this engine a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV).

Refinement improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 is also equipped with Electronic Throttle Control.

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota comes standard with a 3.7-liter Magnum® V-6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine also comes with Electronic Throttle Control for positive throttle response, and exhaust gas recirculation to help lower emissions.

A first-for-the-segment remote starter for more convenience is standard on both the 3.7-liter and 4.7-liter engines in the 2008 Dodge Dakota.
The new 2008 Dodge Dakota's powerplants are backed up by a choice of a six-speed manual transmission, standard on all V-6 equipped 2008 Dodge Dakota models except Laramie; a four-speed automatic with overdrive available with Dakota's V-6 engine; and a five-speed automatic available on V-8-equipped models.

For more capability when traction is at a premium, the new 2008 Dodge Dakota may be equipped with a transfer case featuring two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with locked high and low ranges, or an available transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive as well as selections for locked high and low ranges. The 2007 Dodge Dakota is the only pickup in its segment to offer full-time four-wheel drive.

New look, more model choices

In addition to powerful and capable, Dodge trucks are also known as bold.

For that part of the equation, the 2008 Dodge Dakota's exterior includes a newly styled hood, grille, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlamps. The front end has been designed to improve aerodynamics and features better fit and gap management. The hood surface was designed to signify power and further amplify the drop-fendered, signature look for Dodge trucks. With these styling enhancements, the "face" of the 2008 Dodge Dakota is better aligned with the rest of the Dodge truck lineup.

Like the Dodge Nitro, headlamps are rectangular units primarily for a contemporary appearance, but also to maximize the surface area for better forward lighting. Reflectors are deep-set behind each lense to achieve a serious demeanor.

All-new fascias better integrate with the restyled grille and incorporate fog lamps. The 2008 Dodge Dakota's tailgate includes a new spoiler that helps smooth air flow over the rear of the truck to improve fuel economy, and the top surface of the cargo box has a new protective surface.

"The Dodge truck DNA is well-understood in the marketplace. We are creators of trucks with a distinct flair for style and no compromise in function," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President—Jeep®/Truck and Color and Trim Studios, and Specialty Vehicles, Chrysler Group Design. "We restyled the 2008 Dodge Dakota to reflect that DNA in a package that presents the Dakota as both a sporty lifestyle vehicle and a work truck."

For 2008, the Dodge Dakota will again be offered in two body styles—Extended Cab and Crew Cab—and six trim levels: ST, SXT, SLT, TRX4, Sport and Laramie.

Interior loaded with form and function

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota's interior includes a new instrument panel, center console and accent finishes, and several new interior storage choices.

"The interior is designed to provide an ergonomically friendly cockpit with improved comfort, utility and thoughtful storage amenities to complement a variety of lifestyles," said Gilles.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab's available Full Swing™ rear access doors open nearly 170 degrees—unique in the segment—to an interior with class-leading room and seating for five. With rear seats folded, up to 30 cubic feet of storage space is available. A total of six storage hooks are located on the Extended Cab's rear interior panel.

Separately, the 2008 Dodge Dakota Crew Cab offers best-in-class room—37.1 cubic feet—and seating for up to six. With rear seats folded, a new under-seat storage system, a first for Dodge Dakota, is easily accessible. This system includes a unique, collapsible and removable cargo management system that enables gear to be organized and taken anywhere.
Other storage options are provided throughout the interior. For example, an additional storage bin is located above the glove box, providing easy access for everyday items. An all-new center console incorporates cup holders with modular inserts and a pull-out bin specifically designed to hold electronics such as an MP3 player (which can be plugged into any of the 2007 Dodge Dakota's audio systems), cell phone or Personal Digital Assistant. An additional power outlet is also provided.

Seating is available with YES Essentials® Worry Free Fabric, which is stain-resistant, odor-resistant and anti-static. Heated bench seats are available in the 2008 Dodge Dakota for the first time.

Seating options include an available 40/20/40 split-bench front seat with a folding center armrest. The 2008 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab is available with 40/40 rear-folding seats, while Crew Cab models have a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat.

Electronic choices include AM-FM stereo radios with MP3 capability and available SIRIUS Satellite Radio that delivers more than 125 channels of music, sports, news, talk and weather. Also available as stand-alone options are a 508-watt SoundBox system (available on Extended Cab models) and a DVD navigation system with turn-by-turn directions. A power accessory delay, standard on all 2008 Dodge Dakotas, allows power functions, including radio, to operate after the vehicle is turned off.

Dodge Dakota = versatility

The foundation of the new 2008 Dodge Dakota is a ladder-type frame, with main rails formed to precision tolerances under liquid pressure and fully boxed for strength and rigidity. All 2008 Dodge Dakotas feature independent front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers. The result is identical ride height for two- and four-wheel-drive models, which contributes to smooth ride and handling characteristics.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota continues to offer the largest and longest standard cargo bed in its class: 6-foot-6-inches in the Extended Cab. Built-in utility rails make cargo box tie-downs infinitely adjustable. The 2008 Dodge Dakota's dual-position tailgate may be secured in a mid-position, which provides support for extra-wide or -long cargo laid on top of wheel wells and extending beyond the end of the bed.

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota also continues to wear the crown for highest tow ratings in the mid-size pickup market, with towing ability of up to 7,050 pounds.

As a complete package, the 2008 Dodge Dakota is as safe as it is capable and versatile. Up front, octagonal front frame rail tips collapse rearward in an impact in order to absorb energy and deter force from the cabin. An anti-lock brake system is standard on rear wheels, and available on all four wheels.

Advance multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags are standard, and supplemental side-curtain air bags are available. Rear head restraints on Crew Cab models, which are designed for the driver's rearward visibility, have a foam-padded structure for increased protection.

More Fuel-efficient, More Powerful Chrysler Group 4.7-liter V-8 Engine Debuts in New 2008 Dodge Dakota

- Significant improvement in fuel economy
- More than 25-percent horsepower increase
- More than 10-percent torque increase

Chrysler Group's new 4.7-liter V-8 is engineered to deliver significantly enhanced customer experience and value, increasing fuel economy while simultaneously improving performance by 60 horses to 290 horsepower. Peak torque is up over 10 percent, to 320 lb.-ft. These efficiency and performance gains are not at the expense of refinement, however, as noise, vibration and harshness have been minimized.

"The Chrysler Group continues to push the boundaries of engine technology, substantially increasing fuel-efficiency, performance and refinement," said Bob Lee, Vice President - Powertrain Product Engineering Team, Chrysler Group. "Chrysler Group knows that while pickup customers always want more torque and power, fuel economy is becoming more important as fuel prices trend upward. Like our industry-leading HEMI, this new engine represents a win-win for our customers."

The new 4.7-liter V-8 follows the HEMI lead in using two spark plugs per cylinder, and leverages increased compression ratio, improved cylinder head port flow and a new slant/squish combustion system design to substantially increase fuel economy, power and torque.

Refinement improvements result from careful system engineering, including significant revisions to the induction system, reduced reciprocating mass via a lightweight piston/rod assembly, and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. A new normally open valve lash adjuster system enables improvement in engine smoothness at idle. Additionally, electronic throttle control smoothes the driving experience.
The new 4.7-liter V-8 engine will be manufactured at the Mack Avenue Engine Complex in Detroit. Dodge Dakota will be manufactured at Warren Truck Assembly in Warren, Mich. Both will be available this summer.

New 4.7-liter MAGNUM®, SOHC, 16-Valve SMPI V-8

- Type and Description: V-type, liquid-cooled
- Displacement: 287 cu. in. (4701 cu. cm)
- Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.40 (93.0 x 86.5)
- Valve System: Chain driven, SOHC, 16 valves, hydraulic end-pivot roller rockers
- Fuel Injection: Sequential, multi-port, electronic, returnless
- Construction: Compacted Graphite Iron bedplate, cast-iron block, aluminum alloy heads
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
- Max Engine Speed: 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Requirement: E85 (Ethanol) or Unleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2
- Oil Capacity: 6 qt. (5.7L)
- Emission Controls: Dual three-way catalytic converters, heated oxygen sensors, and internal engine features (a)


(a) Meets federal Bin 8A emission standards and California ULEV standards

(Published Feb. 4, 2007)




01Motorsport
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
09:01:27

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Nice read, foxx. It does seem like the Dak and Silverado designers had lunch together. The Dak usually sees a makeover every 7 years; 3 years is kind of D-C admitting they blew it with the 2005-07. They cancel the Regular Cab and worry about declining sales and loss of young buyers? Duh...!



Blakdak
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
11:37:08

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Okay, seriously. What is so hard about designing a front end on a mid size truck? Yikes, this does not look much better. Go back to what works and tweak the GenIII look a little.

Some things sound great: coil-over suspension, MP3 compatability, air bags, dual position tailgate, etc.

The power on the new 4.7 would be enough for me. It says "significantly better fuel economy" but doesn't give any numbers. I think this will prove to be more important in the next 5 years. Also it said SOHC, not DOHC unless I'm missing something (2 versions of 4.7 perhaps?)

No diesel = no sale for me. Maybe in the next year or two they will introduce one.



Blakdak06
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
12:39:03

RE: 2008 Dokota
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foxx, do you work for allpar?
What you posted seems to be verbatium for their website. Maybe this is dodge's press release?



foxx
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
16:15:54

RE: 2008 Dokota
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@ Blakdak06

No, I am working with DaimlerChrysler Switzerland (at least currently). The text is the actual press release.

@ all re. the design

I will keep on driving my 1999 Dakota R/T - I don't like the current design and I don't like the 2008 Dakota. As soon as the bluetec diesel (and better diesel) will be available in the staates the dakota should get a diesel engine.

Regards,
Tim



4.7onN20
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
18:44:07

RE: 2008 Dokota
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I wonder if the 290hp/320ftlb is on gas or ethanol. If that was using gas then it should be well over 300hp with ethanol. Throw in some nitrous and it would be a 400hp/450ftlb dak. How sweet would that be :)



modain
GenIII
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2/05/2007
20:07:56

RE: 2008 Dokota
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I thought power output with ethanol was lower than gasoline... We're talking corn, right?

Oh yeah, the front end treatment is a little beter than before. It's very Nitro, but now it's starting to look "Toyota" to me.

What's your left foot doing?
=========================================
2002 Graphite QC SLT Plus, 4.7L, NV3500, Superchips 3715, 3.92 LSD, loads o'fun...
2001 Patriot Blue Durango SLT, 4.7L, 45RFE, Superchips 3715, 3.55 Open (for now)
1999 Forest Green Dakota RC Sport, 2.5L, NV1500, 3.55 Open


1hotkadota
Dodge Dakota
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2/05/2007
21:13:56

RE: 2008 Dokota
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Word!

It is starting to look a little foreign.

Although, I think Graph was right about it looking like a Honda. Which is way worse than a Toyota. I propose taking away DC's crack pipe. Only then will they make a decent looking Dakota.

Honestly though, why does the Ram look so good and the new Dak makes a cockroach look attractive.



4.7onN20
Dodge Dakota
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2/06/2007
01:37:33

RE: 2008 Dokota
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You are correct, Ethanol has fewer btu's than gasoline but it can use higher compression and a lot more timing. You just have to pump more ethanol in there than you would gasoline. Google it, there is alot of information about it. I even thought about converting my firebird over but it was just to much work for 20 horses.



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