Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmission repair, service, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, universal joints, CV joints, differential service.
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, power steering, alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, disc and drum brake service, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control modules, wiring diagrams.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Body Systems:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, locks, seat mechanisms.
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM) operation, diagnostics, and programming.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for various systems, including OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major and minor components, from alternators to seat belts.
Calibration Procedures:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules after component replacement (e.g., throttle body, ABS sensors).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component locations.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and bolts across various systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using diagnostic scan tools, including accessing data streams and performing actuator tests.
Manual Scope:
Factory-authorized service and repair information, intended to be as comprehensive as dealer service manuals.
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P-code), 5.7L HEMI V8 (M-code), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (C-code)
4.7L Magnum V8 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
4.7L Magnum V8 Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5400 rpm (approx.)
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower:
250 hp @ 2900 rpm (approx.)
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque:
460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Bosch High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) for diesel.
Gasoline Engine Codes:
P = 4.7L Magnum V8, M = 5.7L HEMI V8
Diesel Engine Code:
C = 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel
Engine Code Lookup:
Guide provided to identify specific engine variants based on VIN or engine block markings.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended), Quad Cab (crew)
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 6,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gvw Range:
Approx. 6,300 - 10,000 lbs (depending on model and configuration)
Towing Capacity Range:
Up to 10,500 lbs (depending on engine, axle ratio, and configuration)
Payload Capacity Range:
Up to 2,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on engine, oil type, and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years, particularly under severe use (refer to manual).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually, depending on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
4.7L/5.7L: 100,000 miles (long-life plugs); 5.9L Diesel: spark plugs not applicable, glow plug checks as needed.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/SP or equivalent, SAE 5W-30 for gasoline engines (check manual for specific viscosity and diesel oil specs).
Engine Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Manual transmission fluid (specific type varies by transmission).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Rear Axle Fluid Specification:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 for towing applications, check manual).
Transfer Case Fluid Specification:
Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant (NV244/NV246) or ATF+4 (NV244).
Common Issues 47L Magnum:
Spark plug ejection (P/N P05249074AA, P05249074AB), cylinder head crack issues, exhaust manifold leaks, transmission issues (e.g., torque converter shudder).
Common Issues 57L Hemi:
Valve spring issues in early models, piston slap, oil consumption, tappet noise.
Common Issues 59L Cummins:
VP44 injection pump failures (with proper lift pump maintenance, this can be mitigated), clutch wear, injector line leaks.
Common Issues General:
Ball joint wear, steering linkage issues, rust on body panels (especially in certain climates), HVAC blower motor failures.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon.
Third Generation Launch:
The 2003 model year marked the introduction of the all-new third-generation Ram, featuring a significant redesign and the introduction of the HEMI engine.
Trim Levels 2003:
ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport (availability varied by cab style and engine).
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Saltillo, Mexico