Segment:
Full-size heavy-duty pickup truck, positioned for commercial use, towing, and heavy hauling.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty (F-250, F-350), Chevrolet Silverado HD (2500HD, 3500HD), GMC Sierra HD (2500HD, 3500HD).
Vehicle Platform:
Part of the third generation Ram trucks (DR platform), known for its distinctive 'Big Rig' styling and robust construction.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level technical data crucial for accurate diagnosis, repair, and maintenance, enabling DIY mechanics and professional technicians to service the vehicle effectively.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel and emissions, cooling, lubrication, ignition, exhaust, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, driveline.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, body electrical (wiper/washer, horn, mirrors, seats, windows), comfort and convenience, powertrain control modules, chassis control modules, trailer tow wiring.
Body:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, locks, security system, airbags, frame and underbody.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, pinpoint tests, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, specifications for all major systems.
Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability and electrical issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, including component specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, and detailed diagnostic procedures.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and images. Text is generally searchable, aiding in quick information retrieval.
Printable:
Yes, designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Engine Option 1:
8.0L V10 Triton (VPG)
Engine Option 2:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (ISB)
Engine Option 3:
5.7L HEMI V8 (New for 2004)
8.0L V10 Horsepower:
305 hp @ 4000 rpm
8.0L V10 Torque:
450 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
5.9L Cummins Horsepower:
305 hp @ 2900 rpm (High Output)
5.9L Cummins Torque:
555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (High Output)
5.7L Hemi Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5400 rpm
5.7L Hemi Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
8.0L V10 Fuel:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
5.9L Cummins Fuel:
High-pressure common rail (HPCR) fuel injection
5.7L Hemi Fuel:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Transmission Option 1:
NV5600 6-Speed Manual (with Cummins Diesel)
Transmission Option 2:
48RE 4-Speed Automatic (with V10 and HEMI)
Transmission Option 3:
NV3500 5-Speed Manual (with HEMI on some models, less common for HD)
Transfer Case:
New Process Gear (NP) 271 Manual Shift or NP241DHD (for some configurations) Electronic Transfer Case (optional)
Transmission Fluid Diesel Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar specification)
Transmission Fluid Gas Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar specification)
Transmission Fluid Manual Nv5600:
GL-5 rated 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant
Wheelbase Std:
134.5 inches (standard cab/short bed)
Wheelbase Long:
140.5 inches (quad cab/short bed), 160.5 inches (crew cab/long bed)
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Gvwr Max:
Up to 10,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gcwr Max:
Up to 23,000 lbs (depending on engine and axle)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 6,000 - 7,500 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
N/A (Not typically rated for rollover resistance in this class, but designed for stability)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Towing Brakes:
Provisions for trailer brake controller installation.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, and premium Infinity sound system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on select trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Trailer Tow Package:
Often includes integrated trailer wiring harness, hitch receiver, and sometimes integrated trailer brake controller wiring.
Auxiliary Input:
Limited connectivity by modern standards; typically no USB or Bluetooth from the factory.
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (severe duty may require more frequent changes).
Oil Change Gas:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty).
Coolant Flush Diesel:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years.
Coolant Flush Gas:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Diesel Auto:
Check at 30,000 miles, replace at 60,000 miles (severe duty) or 100,000 miles (normal duty).
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CJ-4 or CI-4 rated SAE 15W-40 synthetic diesel engine oil. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature. (e.g., Mopar 5W-40 for extreme cold).
Engine Oil Gas V10:
API SN/SM or higher rated SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic engine oil. (e.g., Mopar 10W-30).
Engine Oil Gas Hemi:
API SN/SM or higher rated SAE 5W-20 synthetic engine oil. (e.g., Mopar 5W-20).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Cummins Injector Lines:
Early common rail systems could experience issues with injector lines, though generally robust.
Transmission 48Re:
Can sometimes overheat under heavy towing, requiring transmission cooler upgrades. Torque converter shudder can occur.
U-Joints:
Heavy-duty use can lead to premature wear of universal joints.
Heater Core:
Can be prone to leaks over time, requiring dashboard disassembly for replacement.
Rear Main Seal:
Occasionally prone to leaks on both gas and diesel engines, particularly on higher mileage units.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, establishing the Ram brand as a serious contender with iconic designs and powerful engines.
Third Gen Ram:
The 2004 model represents the third generation of the Ram pickup (introduced in 2002), featuring a significant redesign from its predecessor, including a more muscular exterior and enhanced interior comfort.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan.
