I am a new member to the list and wanted to get some answers from real
Dakota owners prior to my next truck purchase. I am looking at a 2001 Club
Cab Dakota with the 4.7, 5 speed, and limited slip - just the basics. This
truck / configuration is great because its larger than say a Ranger but
smaller than an F-150. I don't want to spend 28 to 30K on a full size 4X4
GM or Ford truck, but for a few thousand more than a small Ranger or S10 I
can purchase the mid-sized Dakota with a V8.
My question is quality and reliability. I have heard of several quality
issues with the Dakota such as rotor/break problems, electrical problems,
ball joint wear, and overall build quality issues. I realize that no
vehicle is perfect, but I don't want the truck in the shop more times than
its on the road. I am a long-term vehicle owner and want to keep whatever
truck I purchase at least 10 years or 200K miles. My basis for this is my
current car, 89 Firebird 5.0 V8 with 207K on it. All of the consumer
reports over the years never rated my Firebird very high either, but I'm
still driving it today.
Any input from current owners who want to share their experience is greatly
appreciated.
Aaron
afuehrer@acuta.org
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