How long is the bed of a 1994 Dakota?
The 1994 Dodge Dakota was offered with two bed lengths: a 5-foot short bed and a 6-foot long bed.
Beyond the brief answer, this article explains the bed-length options for the 1994 Dakota, how they related to cab configurations, and how to verify which bed length a specific truck has when shopping or restoring.
Bed length options
For the 1994 Dodge Dakota, buyers could choose between two cargo-bed lengths. The final length depended on the bed option selected when the truck was built, and both lengths were available across different cab configurations.
- 5-foot short bed: 60 inches (152 cm) long
- 6-foot long bed: 72 inches (183 cm) long
Knowing which bed length your Dakota has is important for cargo planning, accessory fitment, and overall truck balance. If you’re unsure which option your particular vehicle uses, check the build sheet, VIN documentation, or measure the bed directly.
How to verify the bed length on your truck
To confirm your Dakota’s bed length, you can use several practical methods. The following steps help ensure you don’t order incompatible parts or accessories.
- Check the door jamb sticker, owner's manual, or original window sticker (Monroney) for bed-length specification.
- Measure the exterior bed length yourself: with the tailgate closed, measure from the front edge of the bed (behind the cab) to the tailgate along the top edge; a measurement near 60 inches indicates a short bed, while about 72 inches indicates a long bed.
- Look for a decal or stamped label on the bed side or inside the tailgate that notes "5' Bed" or "6' Bed."
- If you have the VIN, request the build sheet from the dealer or check databases that provide original factory specifications, which often include bed length.
These checks help you accurately identify the bed length for correct compatibility with cargo gear, tonneau covers, and aftermarket accessories.
Cab configuration notes
In 1994 the Dakota was offered in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations, with bed lengths available across these bodies. When shopping for parts or planning a restoration, verify both cab style and bed length to ensure proper fitment and payload expectations.
Summary
The 1994 Dodge Dakota offered two bed lengths: 5 feet (60 inches) and 6 feet (72 inches). The exact length depended on the factory option chosen for a given truck, and you can confirm it via the build sheet, VIN documentation, or direct measurement. Knowing the correct bed length helps with cargo planning and accessory compatibility.
What year to stay away from Dodge Dakota?
The Dodge Dakota years to avoid are primarily the 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 models due to widespread issues with engines, brakes, and paint. Other problematic years include 1999 and 2004, which experienced specific problems like suspension, engine, and transmission issues.
Specific years and common problems
- 2000: Suffers from engine problems, including oil pressure loss, fluctuating idle, and misfires.
- 2002: Frequently cited for brake issues, particularly brake cylinders locking up.
- 2004: Can experience transmission slipping and electrical sensor malfunctions, such as with the throttle position and crankshaft sensors.
- 2005: Known for brake problems and a high number of recalls (seven times).
- 2006: Has numerous recalls and is associated with engine, transmission, and brake problems.
- 1999: Can have suspension, engine, and brake issues.
Other considerations
- 2007-2011: These later model years are generally recommended for those seeking an automatic transmission, as the transmission quality improved significantly during this period.
- 2009-2011: Some models from this range have a recall for a potential rear axle pinion nut issue.
How long is a 1994 Dodge Dakota?
Dimensions
| Length | 214.2 in. |
|---|---|
| Overall width without mirrors | 69.3 in. |
| Height | 64.2 in. |
What trucks have a 4.5 ft bed?
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup designed for versatility and efficiency. It comes with a single bed size: 4.5-Foot Bed: This bed offers a length of 54.4 inches, a width of 42.6 inches between the wheel wells, and a height of 20.3 inches, providing a cargo volume of 33.3 cubic feet.
How long is a Dodge Dakota bed?
A Dodge Dakota bed length varies depending on the model year and cab configuration, but common lengths are approximately 6.5 feet (76-77 inches) for a standard bed and around 5.3 feet (64-65 inches) for a short bed on some models. For example, a 2005 Quad Cab has a short bed of 64.9 inches, while a 1997-2004 model year short bed is 77 inches.
Common bed lengths
- Standard Bed: Around 6.5 feet or 77 inches. This was common on regular and club cab models.
- Short Bed: Approximately 64-65 inches. This is often found on Quad Cab models.
- Specific years:
- 2005-2011 Dakota: The short bed is 63 ¾ inches.
- 1997-2004 Dakota: The short bed is 77 inches.
- 1986-1996 Dakota: The bed is 77 1/8 inches.
