Leroy,
I don't know what to tell ya about the other stuff, but the tranny clunking
into reverse (and back into drive) is normal. Mine does it every time. (and
just about everyone elses)
Marty
http://members.cox.net/got-speed
<Leroygrider@attbi.com> wrote in message
news:000501c24d81$8a918df0$6401a8c0@netleroyshouse...
>
> I am currently looking at a 1997 Dakota sport ext cab P/U w/5.2
> Liter@99,000 miles at a used car dealer. The truck is in good shape and
> I observed no leaks but the spare tire and the bottom rear of the truck
> have a thick layer of oily dust, like a pretty serious petroleum leak
> was happening for a while. I want to have my mechanic check the truck
> out but I was wondering if any of you guys could give me a clue as to
> what system is the most likely to leak. Transmission, or motor. Also
> there is quite a bit of play in the driveline with the drive to reverse
> transition giving a loud clunk. Is this typical? Or should I have a
> closer look at the U joints. Also the oil smelled of gasoline (from the
> dipstick) is this typical for a truck with high mileage Or should I be
> concerned about it.
>
> I had a Plymouth Satellite with a 318 that was awesome, I can't imagine
> what that same motor will do in the lighter Dakota, any idea why Dodge
> abandoned this powerplant?
>
> What automatic transmission do they use in the Dakota? Is it offered in
> any other Chrysler products? I have read a lot of horror stories about
> trannys in Dakotas, can they be beefed up??
>
> Thanks again for
> any input any of you can offer.
>
>
>
> Leroy Grider
>
>
>
> Fresno Ca
>
>
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