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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/18/2006 10:20:32
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Subject: 100k IP: Logged
Message: My 2000 QC 4x4 4.7 V8 is knocking on the doors to 100k miles. I want to have all the fluids (tranny, brakes, radiator, etc..) flushed and replaced, brakes checked (just put Powerslots and new pads on last fall) and probably new plugs/wires.
Can anybody think of anything else I need to do? I don't mind cost too much.. I'd rather pay for the piece of mind.
Also, I've had my truck aligned, and the bearings checked (yes the new ones after the recall) but it still pulls right. Aside from brakes, there's a steering bearing that I've heard can go bad. Any clues?
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zzark *GenII*
6/18/2006 10:55:38
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Are you going to do the work yourself?
If not, it'll cost you plenty.
You can use Seafoam's TransTune to clean/flush the trans and power steering. And regular Seafoam for the engine oil.
Get a Prestone flush kit for the radiator. Make sure you backflush the system. Should backflush the heater core separate from the rest.
Don't forget the rear axle.
And while you are at it, it would be good to install synthetic fluids.
zzark
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Kowalski GenIII
6/18/2006 13:42:04
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: New wires for a 4.7 ?
Why; it has coil on plug ignition - there's no wires in between...
Sounds like you got a bad alignment, unless you have a dragging brake. See if a wheel feels hotter than the one opposite it after driving for a while. If not, and it still pulls right on a flat surface (keep in mind most roads are crowned,so the right side slopes) then you probably got a lousy alignment.
Lead, follow, or get out of the way
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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/18/2006 14:58:20
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: ZZark, I recently moved to an area where I don't have any place to do any of the work myself, and I've worked out a deal for basic tune-up stuff with a local garage. Like I said, I don't mind the cost for the piece of mind that she's in good shape for another 100k. Good tip on the synthetics.
Kowalski, I'm not proud to say I don't even know if my Dak has plug wires or not. I am, however, proud to say I've never had to pop the hood for anything other than routine maintenance. She's been a cherry for me. Thanks for your info.
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zzark *GenII*
6/18/2006 21:18:15
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Not having a work area really sucks.
I don't know what I would do without my garage.
I couldn't afford the labor for all the work I've done on my 1994.
If you found a good shop, that's great.
Maybe they will charge less if they do several things at one time.
Maintenance is like the old Fram commercial --
You can pay me now, or you can pay me later...
zzark
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shatto Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/18/2006 21:43:08
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Remember, most of a tune-up is stuff you can do; plugs, points, rotor, cap (kidding). You don't need to pay someone to look at a belt or wiper blade.
Firestone, and others offer lifetime alignment plans. If you do a couple a year, you're ahead. If you bang about off road, or scale curbs, you'll need it.
It will run better and last longer using synthetic lubricants. Use a filter designed for synthetic oil. One source is Steve Roark's site here.
Use a good engine cleaner before installing the motor oil, to be sure it is completely cleaned out. And, use the recommended weight oil. 50 weight is not better than 30 weight in your engine.
Remember to clean the radiator. Use distilled water with a good coolant.
I take a 1/4 inch hose and syphon the oil out of the power steering pump, then replace it with Amsoil ATF, every 50,000 miles.
Flushing the brake fluid is a good thing. Synthetic handles the heat much better.
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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/19/2006 02:38:21
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Awesome info, Shatto... thanks... that's the stuff I was looking for.
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Dan M Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/19/2006 04:19:30
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Find a shop that offers engine flush service. Well worth the money to clean the sludge out of the oil.
What about checking your spare tire? Ever done that? not many do.
while you are replacing the radiator fluid, go ahead and install new hoses.
Don't forget your air filter.
Shop around for tires, many places offer free lifetime rotation. You can sometimes get free lifetime balancing too.
- Dan M
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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/19/2006 11:23:40
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Good tip on the radiator hoses Dan, thanks.
As far as tires go, I only roll, no matter what truck, on BFG AT's. I get 'em at Sear's normally.
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Lurkin Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/19/2006 15:16:46
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Don't forget the serpentine belt. The hoses were already mentioned.
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Mark Forum Moderator
6/19/2006 15:40:38
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Water pumps usually go at 100k.. be prepared if you see leaking coming out below
-Mark Hryckiewicz 1993 Sport RC SB 5.2L Auto
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shatto Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/20/2006 12:15:05
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Serpantine Belts only need replacing when chunks break off the ridges or there is obvious fraying and falling apart. GM told me that on my last truck. Seems accurate, my Dakota has 500,000 miles on two. Could have been one, but I put Belt Dressing on the first one, ruining it.
Speaking of belts; Tensioners wear out at the pivot, throwing the belt out of alignment, causing squeeking. (so you put belt dressing on the belt, ruining it)
As to steering. Don't worry about maybe. Women do that.
And, while we are telling you what to do, use distilled water in the windshield washer.
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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/20/2006 16:09:58
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: The main reason I ask about the steering is because I think in another life I was supposed to be a drummer for Guns'n'Roses, and my steering wheel often takes the punishment for my lack of musical aptitude. A friend had the same issue, and his bearing failed. That's why I was asking about the bearing.
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shatto Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/21/2006 10:06:32
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Steering Wheel Abuse only bends the wheel. Careful not to upset the airbag.
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Cheeup Dodge Dakota JOIN HERE
6/21/2006 16:20:22
| RE: 100k IP: Logged
Message: Good point... the airbag seems ok.. at least she sings along with me during the songs..
(I know.. bad joke)
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