Segment:
Heavy-duty pickup truck
Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Capabilities:
Renowned for robust construction, towing capacity, payload capability, and powerful engine options, catering to work and commercial applications as well as heavy-duty consumer use.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control system (ECM), manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Frame and body, suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), chassis control modules, infotainment system, power accessories, wiring diagrams.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation, inspections.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, seals), cylinder head repair, crankshaft and camshaft service, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, springs, ball joints, tie rods), steering gear box repair, power steering pump replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, circuit testing, pressure testing, leak detection, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers general automobile practices, basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics, diagnostic procedures, and specifications for torque, clearances, and alignments.
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (16-valve SOHC), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (24-valve ISB).
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 235-245 hp
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approximately 295-305 lb-ft
5.9L Cummins Hp:
Approximately 235-250 hp (depending on year/tune)
5.9L Cummins Torque:
Approximately 460-475 lb-ft (depending on year/tune)
4.7L V8 Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
5.9L Cummins Fuel System:
High-pressure common rail (HPCR) injection system
Wheelbase Options:
130.5 inches (standard cab), 145.5 inches (long bed), 160.5 inches (Mega Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 feet (standard bed), 8.0 feet (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 5,700 - 7,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Up to 10,000 - 11,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Audio Systems:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette tape player (on some models), optional premium audio systems.
Navigation:
Rarely offered or aftermarket installations for this era.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional on most trims.
Towing Features:
Factory trailer wiring harness, integrated trailer brake controller wiring (may require aftermarket installation).
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely equipped standard; often required aftermarket AUX adapter or Bluetooth modules.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for gasoline, 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for diesel, depending on severe/normal usage and oil type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; generally around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, potentially longer for manual, depending on load and usage.
Engine Oil 4.7L:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or 5W-20 based on specific model year recommendation).
Engine Oil 5.9L Cummins:
API CI-4 or CJ-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) OAT coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix).
Transmission Fluid 48Re:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602).
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe/545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602).
Transfer Case Fluid:
NV241/NV271/NV273: Refer to manual, typically ATF+4 or a specific transfer case lubricant.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, steering gear box, U-joints, brake components, exhaust system rust, radiator and heater core failures (especially with older coolant).
Cummins Specific Concerns:
VP44 injection pump failures (pre-common rail models), injector issues, potential for turbocharger wear, lift pump failures.
Gasoline Engine Concerns:
Spark plug replacement, occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter housing leaks (4.7L).
Transmission Concerns:
Overheating of automatic transmissions under heavy load, potential for torque converter shudder, clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Brand Identity:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate signifying their commitment to the pickup market.
Second Gen Updates:
The 2002-2004 models represent a significant facelift and update to the second-generation Ram (introduced in 1994), featuring redesigned exterior styling, updated interior, and improved powertrain options, including the introduction of the 5.9L Cummins with its High Pressure Common Rail system in 2003.
Production Period:
The second generation Ram ran from 1994 to 2001. The facelifted versions for 2002-2004 bridge this period with significant updates before the all-new third generation in 2003 for specific models/cab configurations and full introduction for 2003-2004.
Diesel Engine Awards:
The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine consistently received accolades for its durability, torque, and reliability, making it a benchmark in the heavy-duty segment.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year and component; known for robust powertrain but can have issues with electronics and specific wear items common to heavy-duty trucks.
Emission Standards:
Meets EPA emission standards for the respective model years.
