🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck 1500

Year:

2002

Generation:

Third Generation (DR/DH/DHC)

Chassis Codes:

DR (2WD), DH (4WD), DHC (4WD Crew Cab)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, positioned as a robust and capable workhorse and family vehicle with a strong emphasis on towing and hauling capacity.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.

Vehicle Highlights:

Renowned for powerful engine options, comfortable interior for its class, robust chassis, and towing/hauling capabilities. This generation introduced updated styling and improved interior amenities.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all major mechanical and electrical systems of the 2002 Dodge Ram 1500.

Page Count:

Likely over 2000 pages (typical for a full workshop manual covering multiple engines and configurations for this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Print/Physical or Digital (PDF) - specified for sale as a product, implying a tangible or downloadable item.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8 OHV), transmission (4-speed automatic 44RE/45RFE/48RE, 5-speed manual NV3500/NV4500), transfer case, exhaust system, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Chassis:

Front suspension (independent torsion bar, solid axle option for 4WD), rear suspension (solid axle, leaf springs), steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc options), wheels and tires, frame.

Electrical:

Engine control systems (PCM), ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, climate control, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), anti-theft system, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system components (dash, ducting), body repair procedures.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics for electrical and mechanical systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid level checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnosis and repair with detailed wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing of specific sections. Quality of scans or digital creation is a factor.

Print Quality:

For printed versions, expect clear text and diagrams. Resolution of images and clarity of wiring schematics are key indicators of quality.

Binding Type:

For printed manuals, typically a durable comb binding or spiral binding for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment, or a stitched and glued paperback/hardcover.

Paper Type:

For printed manuals, usually a heavy-duty paper stock to withstand workshop conditions, often glossy for diagrams and photos.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC)

Optional Engine 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)

Optional Engine 2:

5.9L Magnum V8 OHV (Naturally Aspirated)

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 205 hp @ 4800 rpm

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235 hp @ 4800 rpm

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.9L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 245 hp @ 4000 rpm

5.9L V8 Torque:

Approx. 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Management:

Chrysler's proprietary engine management systems (e.g., NGC for 4.7L V8 later in the generation).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic (44RE for 3.7L, 45RFE for 4.7L V8), 5-speed manual (NV3500 for 3.7L, NV4500 for 5.9L V8).

Heavy Duty Automatic:

48RE 4-speed automatic transmission (often paired with the 5.9L V8).

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) is the specified fluid for 45RFE/48RE transmissions. Consult manual for 44RE specifications, likely ATF+3.

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 10-12 quarts (9.5-11.4 liters) for 45RFE/48RE. Varies by specific model and configuration.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Available in 124.5 inches (regular cab short bed), 134.5 inches (regular cab long bed, quad cab short bed), and 140.5 inches (quad cab long bed).

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration, ranging from approximately 199.7 inches to 229.7 inches.

Bed Length Options:

Standard 6'3" bed, Long 8' bed.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2041 - 2495 kg), depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Ranging from 6,000 lbs to 6,600 lbs (2722 kg to 2994 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:

The 2002 Ram 1500 typically received 4-star ratings for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, 4-wheel disc brakes available on higher trims/configurations.

Traction Control:

Optional or available traction control system on certain models.

Airbags:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags were not widely available or standard in 2002 for this class.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional Infinity premium audio system. Cassette player also available on some base models.

Navigation:

Aftermarket navigation systems were common. Factory navigation was not a widespread option in 2002 for this model.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Trailer Towing:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring provisions, heavy-duty cooling and suspension packages available for towing.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trim levels (e.g., SLT, Laramie).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (4,800 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual specifies exact intervals.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), particularly if towing or operating in severe conditions. ATF+4 fluid is critical for longevity.

Coolant Change:

Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-3 years. Use of Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant is advised.

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and temperature, check manual). For 3.7L V6, 5W-30 is common. For 4.7L V8, 5W-30 is common. For 5.9L V8, 10W-30 or 10W-40 might be specified, especially for heavy-duty use.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7L V6: Approx. 6 quarts (5.7 liters). 4.7L V8: Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters). 5.9L V8: Approx. 7 quarts (6.6 liters). Exact capacities in manual.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler approved OAT (Organic Additive Technology) engine coolant, typically orange or pink.

Common Problems:

Minor electrical gremlins, occasional issues with the NGC powertrain control module on later 4.7L engines, transmission solenoid issues, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), potential for rear main seal leaks on V8 engines, catalytic converter issues.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check and top off all fluids. Pay attention to suspension noises. Keep intake air filter clean. Inspect exhaust system for leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate evolving significantly over decades to meet consumer demands for performance and utility.

Third Generation:

The 2002 model year marks the beginning of the third generation (2002-2008), which brought a significant redesign featuring a more aerodynamic and aggressive exterior, a more refined interior, and updated powertrain options, including the introduction of the 4.7L Magnum V8 as a primary option.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo Truck Plant, Coahuila, Mexico and Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Dodge Ram has historically been a contender in truck awards, though the 2002 model specifically might not have won a major 'Truck of the Year' award, it received positive reviews for its design and capability.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for 2002 Ram trucks varied by powertrain and trim, with some praise for ride and comfort, but concerns sometimes raised regarding reliability compared to Japanese competitors.