I think I have ABS not sure how to tell there is a ABS light in the dash. But do both tires have to lock before the ABS kicks in because there have been times where one tire locks up.

Mostly on wet surfaces. There are some wires on the rear diff pot so it looks like.

Not my first time with ABS just weird that one tire can lock up without the ABS not coming on.

I have tried looking to find what option my truck has I also think there is a limited slip rear but not sure, is this information in the VIN number?

 

get a build sheet, take your vin to the dealer and ask for one. does the light turn on when you turn the key to start it like all the other lights do

 

There are two versions of ABS on the Dakota. One is the four wheel and the other is rear wheel only.

When the tires lock, do you feel the pedal vibrate? You may only have rear wheel ABS.
Look by the master cylinder. If you have four wheel ABS you'll see the controller with I think 5 lines coming off of the assembly. Not near the truck now.

Check on the glove box door for the options.

 

i have the same thing happening. i have an 01 and i turn the key on the start and it shows abs, but i have locked them up and bit and it hasnt engaged, i jus slide a bit. not what i want.. . .

 

if it is rear only abs and you lock up both rear wheels i would assume that the truck wouldn't know that the truck has locked up the wheels because there are no other sensors to show the trucks speed. just thinking out loud here i have 4 wheel abs
but if you feel the pedal push up at you and it sounds like something is getting electricuted under the hood then the abs is working but in these older trucks you can fight it and push harder and lock the wheels. you won't notice it on new cars since it pumps the brakes at a much higher rate