What size is the rear end of a Dodge Dakota?
The rear end size on a Dodge Dakota isn’t fixed across all model years. It varies by year, trim level, and drivetrain. In practice, most Dakotas use one of a few rear-axle configurations, so identifying the exact size for your truck requires checking the specific build or axle markings.
Why the size varies by year and option
The Dakota was produced from 1987 to 2011 in multiple generations, with different engines, configurations, and heavy‑duty packages. Each combination could use a different rear differential housing and ring-gear size, and even within a single year there could be variations based on 2WD vs. 4WD and whether a truck carried a heavy‑duty option. This means there isn’t a universal “Dakota rear end size.”
Two of the most common rear-axle sizes you’re likely to encounter on a Dodge Dakota are the 8.25-inch class and the 9.25-inch class. The exact size depends on year, trim, and option group, so it’s essential to verify on your particular vehicle.
- 8.25-inch ring-gear rear axle — a widely used Mopar rear axle on many Dakotas and similar Dodge trucks, often appearing in mid‑late generation models.
- 9.25-inch ring-gear rear axle — less common than the 8.25" but found in certain heavy‑duty or option‑specific configurations.
Conclusion: Because the Dakota’s rear end size varied with era and equipment, you should confirm the exact size on your own truck using axle markings or official build data.
How to confirm your Dakota’s rear-end size
To determine the precise rear-end size on your specific Dodge Dakota, follow these steps:
- Inspect the differential housing or cover for a stamped tag or engraving that indicates the axle model or ring-gear size (for example, “8.25” or “9.25”).
- If no tag is visible, look for a tag on the axle tube or within the differential area that provides axle code information.
- If tags are missing or unreadable, measure the ring gear diameter by removing the differential cover and measuring across the ring gear while the axle is rotated to align the gear teeth.
- Check the factory build sheet, owner’s manual, or the VIN sticker (often on the door jamb or glove box) for axle type or gear ratio information; a dealership or Mopar VIN decoder can pull the exact specifications for your vehicle.
- When in doubt, contact a dealership or a qualified mechanic with your VIN to confirm the exact rear axle size for your model year and option package.
Conclusion: With the exact axle size identified, you can make informed decisions about parts, gears, and replacements tailored to your Dakota.
Additional context and tips
Knowing your rear-end size isn’t only about parts compatibility; it also helps with maintenance planning, gear-change decisions, and resale information. If you’re planning modifications or need to source replacement parts, starting from the wheelbase, payload rating, and axle code will streamline the process.
Summary
The Dodge Dakota does not have a single universal rear-end size. The most common rear-axle options you’ll encounter are the 8.25-inch and 9.25-inch ring-gear assemblies, with occasional variations depending on year and option package. To be certain, check the axle tag, VIN/build sheet, or consult a dealer to confirm your truck’s exact rear-end size before ordering parts or planning modifications.
