🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500

Year:

1999

Platform Code:

DN (Second Generation Ram Truck)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-Size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance technicians

Key Competitors 1999:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500

Manual Advantage:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed step-by-step instructions, extensive use of exploded views for clarity, direct factory information.

Vehicle Design Philosophy:

Rugged, capable, workhorse truck focusing on utility and towing.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Chassis, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures

Secondary Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Specifications, Emissions Control, HVAC, Body Control Modules

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, Searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Engine Control Module (ECM)

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission (NV3500, NV4500), Automatic Transmission (46RE, 47RE), Transfer Case, Driveshafts, Differentials (Front/Rear)

Chassis Suspension:

Front Suspension (Independent), Rear Suspension (Solid Axle), Steering System, Brake System (ABS Optional), Wheels & Tires

Electrical Electronic:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Fuses & Relays, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Control Module

Body Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Glass

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Fluid Checks/Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Tire Rotation

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts based on symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, Component testing procedures

Repair Rebuild:

Engine disassembly/assembly, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Electrical component repair, Body panel repair/replacement

Special Procedures:

Exploded views, torque specifications, alignment procedures, diagnostic tool usage (OBD-II)

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical system diagnostics and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

High (Text-searchable for quick access to information)

Digital Resolution:

High resolution images and diagrams for clarity

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gas 3.9L:

3.9L Magnum V6 (e.g., Magnum 239)

Engine Code Gas 5.2L:

5.2L Magnum V8 (e.g., Magnum 318)

Engine Code Gas 5.9L:

5.9L Magnum V8 (e.g., Magnum 360)

Engine Code Diesel 5.9L:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (Optional on 2500/3500, but relevant for context)

Horsepower 3.9L V6:

~175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque 3.9L V6:

~230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 5.2L V8:

~230 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 5.2L V8:

~295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower 5.9L V8:

~245 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque 5.9L V8:

~345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Block Material V6 V8:

Cast Iron

Head Material V6 V8:

Aluminum

Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Coil Pack (depending on specific engine variant)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Manual Options:

NV3500 5-speed Manual

Transmission Automatic Options:

46RE 4-speed Automatic (2WD/4WD), 47RE 4-speed Heavy-Duty Automatic (often with 5.9L V8)

Overdrive Gears 46Re 47Re:

4 (1st, 2nd, 3rd, Overdrive 4th)

Gears Nv3500:

5 Forward, 1 Reverse

Fluid Type 46Re 47Re:

ATF+3 (Chrysler)

Fluid Type Nv3500:

Dexron III (GM Specification, commonly used)

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (2WD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Transfer Case Type:

New Process NP231 (part-time 2-speed) or NP241 (heavy duty)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Standard:

134.0 inches (3404 mm)

Wheelbase Long:

154.5 inches (3924 mm)

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., ~229.7 inches for standard cab/short bed)

Overall Width:

~79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Overall Height:

Varies by cab and configuration (e.g., ~75.0 inches for standard cab/short bed)

Bed Length Short:

6.25 feet (approx. 75 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (approx. 96 inches)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration (e.g., ~4,500 - 5,500 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 6,050 - 6,350 lbs for 1500 series)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Frontal Impact:

Not extensively rated by modern NHTSA standards, but generally considered robust.

IIHS Crash Test Performance:

Likely 'Good' in frontal impact, but specific data for 1999 is scarce.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - 4-wheel

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, lap belts in rear (if applicable)

Frame Construction:

Body-on-frame construction, known for durability and torsional rigidity.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Trailer Towing Features:

Factory trailer towing package often included heavy-duty cooling, trailer wiring harness, and hitch receiver preparation.

OBD Ii Port:

Standard OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port located under the dashboard for diagnostic scanning.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar MO-090, Fram PH8A, Purolator L30001 (check specific engine)

Oil Capacity 5.2L V8:

5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter

Oil Capacity 5.9L V8:

5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter

Oil Viscosity Recommendation:

10W-30 API Service SG or SH (check owner's manual for climate specific recommendations)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 12-13 US Quarts (11.4-12.3 Liters) for V8 engines

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Green or Orange)

Spark Plug Type 5.2L V8:

Champion RE14PLP5 or equivalent (e.g., Bosch Platinum IR Fusion)

Spark Plug Gap:

0.045 inches (1.14 mm)

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000-7,500 miles (10,000-12,000 km)

Common Issues Tcm Issues:

Transmission Control Module (TCM) failures or connection problems leading to shifting issues.

Common Issues Heater Core:

Heater core leaks, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement.

Common Issues Radiator:

Radiator leaks or failure, especially in higher mileage vehicles.

Common Issues Plugs Wires:

Worn spark plugs and ignition wires can lead to misfires and reduced performance.

Common Issues Fuel Pump:

Fuel pump failures are not uncommon with age.

Common Issues Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar) can cause clunks and handling issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early Dodge Power Wagon.

Second Generation Dn:

The 1999 Ram 1500 belongs to the second generation (1994-2001), characterized by its distinctive 'big rig' styling.

Key Design Features:

Bold grille, high beltline, prominent fenders, comfortable cabin compared to previous generations.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly (Michigan, USA) and St. Louis Assembly (Missouri, USA).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 1999 model year can be hard to pinpoint, the second-generation Ram series generally received positive reviews for its design and capability, contributing to Dodge's strong truck market presence.

Consumer Reports Historical Ratings:

Consumer Reports often rated the Dodge Ram series for its strong powertrain options and comfortable ride, though occasional reliability concerns in certain areas were noted.