🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, 2500, 3500

Model Series:

Third Generation (DR/DH/D2)

Generation Start Year:

2002

Generation End Year:

2008

Platform Code:

DR/DH/D2

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance.

Key Selling Point:

Comprehensive, factory-level repair and maintenance information for all models and configurations.

Vs Generic Manuals:

Significantly more detailed and specific than generic aftermarket repair guides, providing exact procedures and specifications directly from the manufacturer.

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific information ensuring accuracy and preventing costly mistakes.

Completeness:

Covers all systems and repair procedures from routine maintenance to major overhauls.

Clarity:

Clear, concise language with detailed illustrations and diagrams (where applicable in original format).

📋 Manual Details

Geographical Coverage:

North America (US, Canada, Mexico)

Model Year Coverage:

2001 onwards (explicitly stated for 2002-2008 generation)

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline and diesel engines offered for the specified model years and platforms.

Trim Level Coverage:

All trim levels, including ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport, TRX, etc.

Estimated Page Count:

3000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Purpose:

Diagnosis, repair, maintenance, and overhaul of vehicle systems.

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF (typically digital download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.7L Magnum, 5.7L HEMI, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel, 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel), Transmission (42RLE, NV3500, NV4500, 48RE, 68RFE), Drivetrain (2WD, 4WD systems, transfer cases, differentials).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (front and rear disc, ABS, traction control), Frame and body structure.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, audio systems, security systems, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Body Control Module (BCM) functions.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, seats, hood, tailgate, chassis to body mounting.

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system components and operation.

Diagnostic:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures using scan tools and diagnostic flowcharts.

Maintenance:

Fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation and balancing, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, transmission removal/installation/rebuild, brake system repair (calipers, rotors, pads, lines), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), steering component replacement, exhaust system repair, fuel system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, wiring harness troubleshooting, component testing, system diagnostics.

Technical Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic data, fluid capacities, component identification.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including specific troubleshooting trees for various fault conditions and system failures.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Navigation:

Hyperlinked table of contents and index for easy navigation.

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Digital Format Benefit:

No binding; accessible on multiple devices.

Digital Format Benefit:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Engine 1:

4.7L Magnum V8

Gasoline Engine 2:

5.7L HEMI V8

Diesel Engine 1:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (until 2007)

Diesel Engine 2:

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (from 2007.5)

4.7L Magnum V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235-245 hp

4.7L Magnum V8 Torque:

Approx. 300-310 lb-ft

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 345-350 hp

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

Approx. 375-380 lb-ft

5.9L Cummins Horsepower:

Approx. 250-325 hp (depending on year and calibration)

5.9L Cummins Torque:

Approx. 400-555 lb-ft (depending on year and calibration)

6.7L Cummins Horsepower:

Approx. 350-400 hp

6.7L Cummins Torque:

Approx. 610-650 lb-ft

Gasoline Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Diesel Fuel Delivery:

Common rail direct injection (CRDI)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) for 6.7L.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Option:

NV3500 (5-speed manual) for some 1500 models

Automatic Transmission 1:

42RLE (4-speed automatic) for 4.7L V8

Automatic Transmission 2:

48RE (4-speed automatic) for 5.7L HEMI and 5.9L Cummins

Automatic Transmission 3:

68RFE (6-speed automatic) for 6.7L Cummins (later models)

Heavy Duty Manual:

NV4500 (5-speed manual) for Heavy Duty models (2500/3500)

Transfer Case Options:

Part-time 2-speed (NV244, NV241) and Full-time 4WD options.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific ATF types (e.g., ATF+4, Dexron III, manual transmission fluid GL-4/GL-5).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab

Wheelbase Options:

Multiple wheelbases available depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 134.0" to 160.5")

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 - 7,000 lbs (varies greatly by configuration)

Gvw Range:

6,050 lbs (1500) to 12,000 lbs (3500 Heavy Duty)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Refer to specific year/model ratings; generally 3 or 4 star.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control (ATC)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags were optional/later additions.

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional Infinity audio systems, SiriusXM satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation systems on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets.

Trailer Tow Prep:

Factory trailer brake controller option and trailer tow wiring harnesses.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on engine, oil type, and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and fluid type (refer to manual).

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-100,000 miles thereafter (for HOAT coolant).

Engine Oil Recommendation Gasoline:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API SN or later)

Engine Oil Recommendation Diesel:

CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel engine oil (viscosity varies by temperature, e.g., 15W-40 or 5W-40)

Coolant Specification:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.

Common Issue 1:

Radiator end tank leaks (plastic tanks).

Common Issue 2:

5.7L HEMI 'lifter tick' or MDS (Multi-Displacement System) issues.

Common Issue 3:

Transmission cooler line leaks.

Common Issue 4:

Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods).

Common Issue 5:

5.9L/6.7L Cummins injector issues or fuel system problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks since the 1930s, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with heavy-duty capability.

Third Generation Introduction:

The third generation of the Dodge Ram (1500, 2500, 3500) was launched for the 2002 model year, marking a significant redesign from the previous generation. The 1500 model received further updates for 2006, and the 2500/3500 models saw major changes with the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins in 2007.5.

Manufacturing Locations:

Various Chrysler plants in North America, notably Warren, Michigan and Saltillo, Mexico.

Market Dominance:

These trucks were positioned as direct competitors to Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, often praised for their HEMI engine option and Cummins diesel.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific years might not have sweeping 'Truck of the Year' awards across all categories, the Ram trucks of this era were generally well-regarded for their capability and performance, especially the Cummins diesel variants.

Towing Hauling Capability:

Praised for robust towing and hauling capacities, especially in 2500 and 3500 configurations.

Manual Origin:

Represents manufacturer-issued service documentation, comparable to ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) standards for technical accuracy and completeness.