I dunno about the v6 but there is a TSB december of 98 for the same problem
on the 4 cyl. 2.5 L
Pain in the a$$ isn't the word for it!
Tony.
----- Original Message -----
From: David Stark <DavidS@ci.hayward.ca.us>
To: <dakota-truck@dakota-truck.net>
Sent: Monday, June 17, 2002 1:45 PM
Subject: DML: Broken Exhaust Manifold Bolts
>
> Greetings.
>
> I'm new to this list but I've scanned the archives and see there has been
some discussion of this topic.
>
> Here's the deal. I have a 1997 Dakota with a 6 cyl engine. About two
months ago I discovered the middle exhaust manifold bolt on the left side of
the engine had sheared off flush with the block. An independent repair shop
extracted the bolt, retapped the hole and made a new stud. The bill came to
about $200 which I thought was a bargain for the pain in the a** for doing
this kind of job. (Note, I first took it to the dealer and they basically
shook their heads and made expensive noises.)
>
> Last weekend I discovered ANOTHER manifold stud (this one is on the right
side of the engine) is sheared off. So. . .this time I called Dodge to see
if there was any recall/TSB action regarding this issue. The Dodge reps I
spoke with were super cool. They claim that there's isn't any recall/TSB
info but that they started a "Consumer Advocate File" on this problem. The
Dodge rep told me if they issued a recall that I would be reimbursed for the
work that was done to fix the problem.
>
> Bottom line: If anyone else has had to deal with this issue, I suggest
you let Dodge know and, hopefully, they issue some official proclamation
that may help take the sting out of what (for me) will be almost $500 worth
of band-aids for their poor engineering. Let me know if you have any
questions or want more information.
>
> Finally, if there is another cause for these studs shearing off (i.e.,
poorly supported exhaust system) please let me know.
>
> Ciao.
>
> - Dave Stark, Pleasanton CA
>
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