But the Dakota 9.25” has 3.5” tubes. I know this, because my ‘02 Dakota has a 9.25” rear axle with 3.5” tubes. Look at the tube diameter at the perches, and look at the tube diameter at the backing plate.
View attachment 1716274073
So if you buy Dakota U-bolts, you’d better make sure you’re getting them for a Dakota with an 8.25” rear and not a 9.25” rear.
And I’m with
@RustyRatRod, if you don’t over torque the U-bolts you don’t need to worry about if the bolts are flat or round. The dimpled tubes come from guys over tightening the U-bolt nuts.