🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Platform:

DN (Third Generation Ram Pickup)

Internal Project Code:

DN Platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, known for its robust construction and capability.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra.

Third Gen Ram:

Introduced radical styling changes, the 'Big Rig' look, improved aerodynamics, updated interior, and coil spring rear suspension on most models for enhanced ride quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service information for the 2001-2006 Dodge Ram Pickup trucks.

Pages:

Thousands (estimated, actual count varies by specific edition, but typical factory service manuals are extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Technical Service Manual (TSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

All engine types, including V6 and V8 configurations, internal components, valve train, piston assembly, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE, NV3500), transfer case, drive axles, differentials, propeller shafts, CV joints.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), front and rear brake components, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (independent front suspension for most 2002+ models), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuse box layouts, relay locations, wiring diagrams for all major systems.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, refrigerant handling, diagnostic procedures.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, frame, bumpers, structural components, exterior trim.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, diagnostic procedures for airbag system.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules, oil change intervals, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom analysis, test procedures, and fault code interpretation.

Repair Replacement:

Complete instructions for removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major components and systems.

Alignment Adjustment:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, steering system adjustments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component location and harness routing.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners, critical for proper assembly and preventing damage.

Depth:

Expert-level, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electronic diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printable:

Yes, designed for printing of individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3.7L Magnum V6 (2001)

Displacement:

3.7 Liters (226 cubic inches)

Configuration:

V6, SOHC

Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Code:

4.7L Magnum V8 (2002-2006)

Displacement:

4.7 Liters (285 cubic inches)

Configuration:

V8, SOHC, 16-valve

Horsepower:

235-260 hp @ 4500-5200 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Torque:

295-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Engine Code:

5.7L HEMI V8 (Optional 2004-2006)

Displacement:

5.7 Liters (345 cubic inches)

Configuration:

V8, OHV, 16-valve, HEMI (with Multiple Displacement System - MDS on later models)

Horsepower:

345-345 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm

Torque:

375-375 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

ECU:

DRB III diagnostic scan tool compatibility

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE)

Type:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for some V6 models)

Type:

NV244 (part-time, electronic shift-on-the-fly) or NV243 (part-time, manual shift) depending on configuration.

Fluid:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid type 9602)

Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase 2Wd:

134.4 inches (standard cab, long bed)

Wheelbase 4Wd:

134.4 inches (standard cab, long bed)

Overall Length Std Bed:

229.7 inches (standard cab, short bed)

Overall Length Long Bed:

247.7 inches (standard cab, long bed)

Overall Width:

79.4 inches

Overall Height:

75.1 inches (approximate, varies by configuration)

Bed Length Short Bed:

6.3 feet

Bed Length Long Bed:

8.0 feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (varies by configuration, engine, drivetrain)

Gvwr:

Varies by model (e.g., 6,000 lbs to 8,500 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Refer to specific model year NHTSA reports; generally considered average for its class. 4WD models typically have higher resistance.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags were not widely available in this generation.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters; three-point rear seat belts in extended cabs.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional Infinity premium sound system. Cassette players were still common in early models.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels in later years of this generation.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors available.

Trailer Tow Prep:

Available trailer tow packages with trailer brake controller pre-wiring and heavy-duty cooling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil quality (conventional vs. synthetic).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles for optimal performance.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Replace every 30,000 miles for 4.7L V8 and 3.7L V6 engines.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 3 years, using appropriate Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on towing and severe usage. Always use ATF+4.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (most common for 4.7L and 3.7L engines). Refer to manual for specific engine and temperature range recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7L V6: 5 quarts (with filter). 4.7L V8: 5.5 quarts (with filter).

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 14 quarts (varies by radiator and engine size).

Ignition Coils:

Premature failure of ignition coils, especially on the 4.7L V8 engine, leading to misfires.

Water Pump Leaks:

Common leaks from the water pump seal, particularly on the 4.7L V8.

Transmission Issues:

Overdrive clutch failure, torque converter issues, and valve body problems can occur in automatic transmissions if not maintained properly or due to high mileage.

Crankshaft Position Sensor:

Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can cause stalling or no-start conditions.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Exhaust manifold cracks, particularly on the 4.7L V8, leading to ticking noises and exhaust leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.

Third Gen Introduction:

The third generation (2002-2008, though 2001 models are transitional) marked a significant departure from the previous generation with bold styling and chassis improvements.

Dn Platform Notes:

The DN platform featured an independent front suspension (IFS) starting in 2002, improving handling and ride quality significantly compared to the previous solid front axle.

Manufacturing Locations:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Dodge Ram was awarded MotorTrend's Truck of the Year for 2003.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and powertrain, with some criticisms regarding reliability in certain areas of the third generation.

Emissions Standards:

Meets EPA emissions standards for the respective model years.