Cheap Wheels Truck: 1988 Dodge Dakota

The Dakota was a mid-size pickup offered by Dodge (later RAM) from 1987 to 2011. Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge all exited the intermediate pickup market at about the same time, though Ford and Chevy soon returned. This 1988 Dakota has been sitting in a dark garage/barn for about 15 years and is well-worn at 200,000 miles. With a little effort, you could get it to run as a set of cheap wheels in Malone, Wisconsin. The seller is only looking to get $650 (or less) out of it here on Facebook Marketplace. Another tip brought to us by “Lothar… of the Hill People.”

First-generation Dakotas were on the market through 1996. A variety of engines were offered at different times, including a 239 cubic inch V6, which is likely in the seller’s truck. No mention is made of the transmission selection here, but as a workhorse, a 5-speed manual would be possible. The Dakota was built using components from the existing Dodge parts bin and produced in the same plant as the bigger D/W Dodge trucks. The Dakota is noted for being the first 2WD pickup with rack-and-pinion steering.

We don’t know much about this barn find, but for $650 you probably shouldn’t expect an open library. It has tons of miles, has been sitting for ages, and has really faded paint. There is no mention of rust, but considering that part of the country, don’t rule it out. We don’t see much of the interior except parts that are dirty and (maybe) moldy.

The seller says that if you pour gas into the current carburetor, the truck will fire up. But a new carburetor is suggested. We’re not sure how that conclusion was reache,d as the truck has no battery, and you will have to trailer this pickup anywhere you want it to go, anyway. As a cheap wheels project, maybe this P/U has a possible second life in its future, or it will serve as a donor for another needy Dodge.