Scott P
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
1/28/2003
13:03:00
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 Subject: Dakota ball joint / 4WD / engine problem
IP: Logged
Message:
I bought a 1998 Dodgde dakota 4WD with 318 (50,000 miles) in Oct 2002. I have loved the size, ride, looks, power, and interior looks/comfort. I have experienced many of the apparently typical problems with the dakotas though. I had to replace the lower ball joints soon after purchase yet can't seem to keep it from pulling to the left. Big O says it will get better as tire wear evens out. The 4WD High kept disengaging and slightly grinding if I put it in 4 high while driving. Linkage adjustment fixed it. I have fought with the evil engine knock / ping since I bought it and have tried all recommendations: 180 thermostat, cooler spark plugs, reroute plug wires, and had dealer do a chemical cleaning of the engines internal components. Somewhat better but still knocks. I had to ask the technitian after 2 days if he thought it was the plenum gasket. He looked in the throttle body and sure enough, I have a plenum gasket leek. For only 420.00 they will fix it for me. I think I will try it. I don't know if I should reinforce the stock intake maniforld or by an aftermarket M1. Is there a performace improvement worth the additional cost? Well, I only have to replace slightly leeking oil seal on the front differential where the transfer drive shaft enters, and the crankshaft oil seal behind the harmonic balancer and I should have this 98 dakota in as good a shape as the 1992 Yukon I just sold. My thinking for purchasing the 98 dakota was that the 92 Yukon would soon need some work and I could save some money in the long run by buying a newer truck.
Well, At least I still love the dakota and have at least found it no more then moderately difficult to work on it mechanically.
If there are any other mechanical problems I can look forward to please feel free to notify me.
Thanks
Scott
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