brakes DODGE DAKOTA 2004 3.G Owners Manual

To shift into Reverse, come to a complete stop. Depress
the clutch and pause briefly to allow the gear train to spin
down. Move the shift lever from the Neutral position
straight across and back into Reverse.
Never drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal.
Do not attempt to hold the vehicle on a hill with the
clutch pedal partially engaged, as this will cause abnor-
mal wear on the clutch.
Recommended Shift Speeds
To use your manual transmission for fuel economy it
should be upshifted as listed below. Shift at the vehicle
speeds listed for acceleration and cruise conditions (rela-
tively steady speeds).
Recommended Manual Transmission Shift Speeds in
MPH (KM/H)
Engine Model 1 to 2 2 to 3 3 to 4 4 to 5
3.7L/
4.7LAll 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72)
Higher upshift speeds may be used to obtain a desired
acceleration rate.
Downshifting
Moving from a high gear down to the lower gears in
descending numerical order is recommended to preserve
brakes when driving down steep hills. In addition,
downshifting at the right time provides better accelera-
tion when you want to resume speed. For acceleration
initiated at speeds less than 20 mph (30 km/h), second
gear is recommended.
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION
NV 233 Transfer Case Operating
Information/Precautions
The NV233 is an electric shift transfer case and is
operated by the 4WD Control Switch (Transfer Case
Switch), which is located on the instrument panel.
The NV233 transfer case provides 4 mode positions: 2
(rear) wheel drive high range, 4 wheel drive high range,
4 wheel drive low range, and neutral.
The NV233 transfer case is designed to be driven in the 2
wheel drive position (2WD) for normal street and high-
way conditions (dry hard surfaced roads).
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5

WARNING!
²Always fully apply the parking brake when leav-
ing your vehicle, or vehicle may roll and cause
damage or injury. Also be certain to leave an
automatic transmission in Park, a manual trans-
mission in Reverse or first gear. Failure to do so
may cause the vehicle to roll and cause damage or
injury.
²Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged
before driving. Failure to do so can lead to brake
failure and an accident.
²Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is dan-
gerous for a number of reasons. A child or others
could be injured. Children should be warned not
to touch the parking brake or the gear selector
lever. Don't leave the key in the ignition. A child
could operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In the event power assist is lost for any reason (for
example, repeated brake applications with the engine
off), the brakes will still function. The effort required to
brake the vehicle will be significantly increased over that
required with the power system operating.
If either the front or rear hydraulic system loses normal
capability, the remaining system will still function with
some loss of braking effectiveness. This will be evident by
increased pedal travel during application, greater pedal
force required to slow or stop, and activation of the Brake
Warning light and the ABS light during brake use.
Rear Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System
This Anti-Lock Brake System provides increased vehicle
stability and brake performance under most braking
conditions. The system automatically controls the opera-
tion of the rear brakes to prevent rear wheel lockup.
The system remains operational in the four-wheel drive
mode. The level of performance is reduced when the
front brakes are locked up. This will cause the rear brakes
to lock-up through the drivetrain, which may reduce the
effectiveness of the anti-lock system.
164 STARTING AND OPERATING

During severe braking conditions, particularly with
changing road surfaces, such as ice to concrete, a slight
drop or minor pulsation may be felt in the brake pedal.
WARNING!
Both Anti-Lock Brake Systems contain sophisticated
electronic equipment. It may be susceptible to inter-
ference caused by improperly installed or high out-
put radio transmitting equipment. This interference
can cause possible loss of anti-lock braking capabil-
ity. Installation of such equipment should be done
by qualified professionals.
Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System Ð If
Equipped
This Anti-Lock Brake System is designed to aid the driver
in maintaining vehicle control under adverse braking
conditions. The system operates with a separate com-
puter to modulate hydraulic pressure to prevent wheel
lock-up and help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces.The system's pump motor runs during an ABS stop to
provide regulated hydraulic pressure. The pump motor
makes a low humming noise during operation, which is
normal.
The Anti-Lock Brake System includes an amber ABS
warning light. When the light is illuminated, the Anti-
Lock Brake System is not functioning. The system reverts
to standard non-anti-lock brakes. Turning the ignition
OFF and ON again may reset the Anti-Lock Brake System
if the fault detected was only momentary.
WARNING!
Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish
their effectiveness and may lead to an accident.
Pumping makes the stopping distance longer. Just
press firmly on your brake pedal when you need to
slow down or stop.
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5

WARNING!
²Anti-lock system (ABS) cannot prevent the natu-
ral laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase braking or steering efficiency be-
yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle
brakes and tires or the traction afforded.
²The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, or hydro-
planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver
can prevent accidents.
²The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user's safety
or the safety of others.
When you are in a severe braking condition involving
use of the Anti-lock Brake System, you will experience
some pedal drop as the vehicle comes to a stop. This is
the result of the system reverting to the base brake
system.
Engagement of the Anti-lock Brake System may be
accompanied by a pulsing sensation. You may also hear a
clicking noise. These occurrences are normal, and indi-
cate that the system is functioning properly.
POWER STEERING
Your power steering system will provide mechanical
steering capability if power assist is lost.
If for any reason the hydraulic pressure is interrupted, it
will still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these
conditions you will experience an increase in steering
effort and a noticeable amount of ªfree playº in the
steering wheel.
166 STARTING AND OPERATING

Heavier axles or suspension components sometimes
specified by purchasers for increased durability do not
necessarily increase the vehicle's GVWR.
Tire Size
This is the minimum allowable tire size for your vehicle.
Replacement tires must be equal to the load capacity of
this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size
listed.
Inflation Pressure (Cold)
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for
all loading conditions up to full GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight
of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full
capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo
loaded into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight
values are determined by weighing your vehicle on a
commercial scale before any occupants or cargo are
added.
Loading
The actual total weight and the weight of the front and
rear of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined
by weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a commer-
cial scale to insure that the GVWR has not been exceeded.
The weight on the front and rear of the vehicle should
then be determined separately to be sure that the load is
properly distributed over front and rear axle. Weighing
the vehicle may show that the GAWR of either the front
or rear axles has been exceeded but the total load is
within the specified GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted
from front to rear or rear to front as appropriate until the
specified weight limitations are met.
Store heavier items down low and be sure that the weight
is distributed equally. Stow all loose items securely before
driving.
Improper weight distribution can have an adverse effect
on the way your vehicle steers and handles and the way
the brakes operate.
192 STARTING AND OPERATING

Wheel9style trailer, this range of loading on the9King
Pin9should be between 15% and 25%.) Loads balanced
over the wheels or biased toward9heavier in the rear9
can cause the trailer to sway severely side to side
which will cause loss of control of vehicle and trailer.
Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the cause of
many trailer accidents.
²Donotinterconnect the hydraulic brake system of
your vehicle with that of the trailer. This could cause
inadequate braking and possible personal injury.
²Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000
lbs. (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000
lbs. (907 kg).
²Use an approved trailer harness and connector. If a
hitch is ordered, the proper wiring will be provided.
²When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not over-
load your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a
loss of control, poor performance or damage to brakes,
axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspension, chas-
sis structure or tires.
²Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and
will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo that
cannot be fully secured, dynamic load shifts can occur
that may be difficult for the driver to control.
²All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on
your vehicle.
²Safety chains must always be used between your
vehicle and trailer.
²Connect trailer lighting and brakes using factory har-
nesses only. Do not cut or splice any wiring to the
brake circuits.
Trailer and Tongue Weight
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) means the weight of the
trailer plus the weight of all cargo and equipment loaded
on the trailer when in actual underway towing condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your
fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight
of the trailer must be supported by the scale.
Tongue Weight is the weight placed on the vehicle's
trailer hitch by the trailer. Always load a trailer with 60%
STARTING AND OPERATING 197
5

of the trailer lights and assure their proper functioning, a
heavy duty turn signal flasher can be installed as a
separate equipment item by your dealer.
WARNING!
The direct connection of hydraulic brake lines from
vehicle brake system to trailer system is not accept-
able. The extra load may cause brake failure and you
may be injured.
Heavy trailer towing also may require breakaway electric
trailer brakes, anti-sway devices or equalizing hitches for
safe operation. Such devices are commonly required by
state law.
For all trailer tow or heavy-duty applications it is
strongly recommended that the factory fill rear axle
lubricant be replaced with an SAE 75W-140 synthetic
gear lubricant. MopartSynthetic Gear Lubricant is of
this type.
Trailer Tow Wiring
The Trailer Tow Package includes a wiring harness
located at the rear underbody of the vehicle.
NOTE:Connect trailer lighting and brakes using fac-
tory harnesses only. Do not cut or splice wiring to the
brake circuits.
The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle
but you must mate the harness to a trailer connector.
Refer to the following table for wire color and function.
Wire Color Function
Black Ground Wire
Blue Trailer Brake
Black/Orange Tail & Running Lamps
Red/Tan Battery
Dk. Green/Red Lt. Stop & Turn Signal
Brown/Red Rt. Stop & Turn Signal
Violet/Black Backup Lamps
200 STARTING AND OPERATING

Brake System
Power Disc Brakes (Front)
Disc brakes do not require adjustment; however, several
hard stops during the break-in period are recommended
to seat the linings and wear off any foreign material.
Self-Adjusting Rear Brakes
To maintain the correct adjustment, you need only drive
your vehicle in reverse and apply the brakes. If further
adjustment is needed, drive forward about 20 feet (6
meters) before you repeat the reverse application. To
avoid poor braking, brake pull, or damage to brake
drums, the brake linings should be inspected as specified
in the Maintenance Schedule.
Brake Master Cylinders
The fluid level in the master cylinders should be checked
whenever the vehicle is serviced, or immediately if the
brake system warning light is on. If necessary, add fluid
to bring level to the full mark on the side of the reservoir
of the brake master cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of
the master cylinder area before removing the cap. With
disc brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as the brakepads wear. Brake fluid level should be checked when
pads are replaced. If the brake fluid level is abnormally
low, check system for leaks.
Refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 243
7

WARNING!
Use of brake fluid that may have a lower initial
boiling point, or is unidentified as to specifications,
may result in sudden brake failure during hard
prolonged braking. You could have an accident.
WARNING!
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in
spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the
brake fluid catching fire.
Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container to avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture.
CAUTION!
Do not allow a petroleum-base fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Seal damage may result.
Brake Linings
Your vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting brakes. A
few brake applications while moving in reverse will
maintain your brakes at the specified adjustment. Adjust-
ment will continue until the brake linings are worn. To
avoid brake failure, brake pull or damage to drums,
inspect the brake linings as specified. If excessively worn,
the brake linings must be replaced.
Brake Hoses
Inspection should be performed whenever the brake
system is serviced or at intervals specified. Inspect hy-
draulic brake hoses for surface cracking, scuffing or worn
spots. If there is any evidence of cracking, scuffing, or
worn spots, the hose should be replaced immediately!
Eventual deterioration of the hose can take place with
possible burst failure.
244 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Brake Fluid........................... 260
Brake System.......................164,243
Anti-Lock........................164,165
Disc Brakes.......................... 243
Fluid Check......................... 243
Hoses.............................. 244
Master Cylinder...................... 243
Parking............................ 163
Self-Adjusting Rear.................... 243
Warning Light....................... 101
Brake/Transmission Interlock.............. 146
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle...... 52
Bulb Replacement...................... 255
Bulbs, Light........................... 254
Camper............................... 90
Capacities, Fluid....................... 258
Capacity, Cargo Weight.................. 191
Caps, Filler
Fuel............................... 186
Power Steering....................... 234
Car Washes........................... 250
Carbon Monoxide Warning.............91,189Cargo ............................... 191
Cargo Area Features..................... 194
Cargo Light.........................70,102
Cassette Tape and Player Maintenance....... 131
Cassette Tape Player...............106,119,121
Catalytic Converter..................189,231
CD Changer..................... 113,117,122
CD Player................. 110,114,116,124,126
Cellular Phone......................... 132
Center High Mounted Stop Light........... 257
Center Lap Belts........................ 30
Center Seat Storage Compartment........... 89
Certification Label...................... 191
Changing A Flat Tire.................... 209
Charging............................. 215
Chart, Tire Sizing....................... 169
Child Restraint.....................38,39,52
Child Restraint Tether Anchors...........42,46
Child Safety Locks....................... 16
Child Seat............................. 45
Climate Control........................ 133
Clock................................ 105
Club Cab............................24,64
INDEX 289
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