Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, known for its durability and capability.
Target Demographic:
Contractors, fleet owners, off-road enthusiasts, families needing towing and hauling capacity.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust chassis, powerful engine options, comfortable ride for a truck, towing capacity, extensive aftermarket support.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, reducing labor costs and ensuring longevity.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine diagnostics, testing, tuning.
Transmission Manual:
NV3500, NV4500 manual transmission repair, overhaul, clutch system.
Transmission Automatic:
42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE automatic transmission repair, overhaul, torque converter, valve body, cooling.
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, differential, drive shafts, U-joints, 4WD system (transfer case).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some models), ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads.
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear solid axle (leaf springs), steering gear, power steering pump, tie rods, ball joints.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers.
Body Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, component testing.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tire rotations, belt inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, part replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical schematics for all circuits.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, covering from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and component-level testing.
Wheelbase Std:
131.0 inches (3327 mm)
Wheelbase Long:
134.5 inches (3416 mm)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 219.5 inches for Club Cab, short bed).
Cab Configurations:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab)
Bed Lengths:
6.0 ft (Short Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs (1,995 - 2,722 kg), varies by configuration and engine.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, up to 8,800 lbs (3,992 kg) for heavy-duty models.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 8,600 lbs (3,900 kg) or more depending on configuration and trailer package.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, manual transmissions vary.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Spark Plugs:
50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium).
Engine Oil Type Gas:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
API CI-4 or CH-4 rated diesel engine oil (e.g., 15W-40).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (MS-9224) for most automatic transmissions. Some earlier models may use ATF+3.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90).
Coolant:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Lifter noise/tick from Magnum V8 engines (often due to wear or oil pressure issues).
Common Issue 2:
Transmission fluid leaks, especially around the cooler lines and seals.
Common Issue 3:
Water pump leaks or bearing failure.
Common Issue 4:
Radiator core support bushings deterioration (leading to hood alignment issues).
Common Issue 5:
CV joint wear in 4WD models.
Common Issue 6:
Cummins 5.9L: Injector pump (VP44) failures can occur, especially with poor fuel quality or low lift-pump pressure.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Gen Introduction:
The second generation Dodge Ram revolutionized pickup truck styling with its aggressive, 'big rig' inspired grille and design.
Key Design Elements:
Distinctive chrome grille, prominent Dodge Ram hood ornament, large cab design for improved comfort.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly plants included Warren, Michigan; Saltillo, Mexico.
Total Production Estimate:
Over 2 million units of the second generation Ram were produced globally.