Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet managers, Dodge Ram owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge.
Value Proposition:
Offers unparalleled depth and breadth of coverage for the 2000-2006 Dodge Ram platform, providing a reliable and authoritative resource often surpassing dealership-level information in accessibility.
Manual Features:
Step-by-step procedures, detailed diagrams, electrical schematics, troubleshooting charts, torque specifications, fluid recommendations.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain (rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive), transfer case
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear disc brakes, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical, power distribution, lighting, instrumentation, audio systems, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), HVAC controls, starter and charging system, trailer wiring
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, bumpers, seats, airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, overhaul procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations, technical service bulletins (TSBs)
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair.
Engine 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)
Engine 1 Hp:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (OHV)
Engine 2 Hp:
235 hp @ 2700 rpm (approx., depending on year/variant)
Engine 2 Torque:
460-555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (approx., depending on year/variant)
Engine 3:
5.7L HEMI V8 (OHV)
Engine 3 Hp:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4.7L & 5.7L), Diesel Fuel (for 5.9L Cummins)
Transmission 1 Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE/44RE/45RFE/48RE)
Transmission 2 Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500/NV4500)
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gear, electronic controls (for automatics), PTO provision (for NV4500 manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar Material Standard MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended), Quad Cab (crew cab)
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (e.g., 6,050 lbs for 1500, up to 11,500 lbs for 3500)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration (e.g., 4,500 - 7,000+ lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for compatible models/configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for compatible models/configurations)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for compatible models/configurations)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Traction Control:
Available on some models/trims
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags; side curtain airbags available on later models/trims
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, shoulder belt height adjusters
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, cassette tape player (on some models), optional Infinity sound system
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Trailer Brake Controller:
Optional factory-installed or aftermarket integration
Trailer Wiring:
7-pin trailer connector standard on most towing-equipped models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specific recommendation)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on transmission type and usage)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years (depending on coolant type)
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, consult manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7 quarts (4.7L V8), 12 quarts (5.9L Cummins)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color (refer to manual for specific P/N)
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.7L Magnum V8 engines
Common Issue 2:
Water pump failures
Common Issue 3:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially on 45RFE/48RE)
Common Issue 4:
Fuel pump failures
Common Issue 5:
Rust and corrosion on body panels, especially in certain climates
Brand Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line consistently positioned as a workhorse in the full-size pickup segment.
Generation Introduction:
The third generation Ram (2002-2008 model years, though this manual covers 2000-2006) saw a significant redesign with a more muscular exterior, refined interior, and the introduction of the HEMI V8 engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri
