Market Positioning:
The 2000 Dodge Ram was a dominant player in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its robust design, towing capability, and distinctive styling.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Key Features:
Powerful engine options, comfortable interior (for its class), available 4x4, Ram Box bed storage (later models, not 2000), substantial towing and payload capacity.
Value For Buyers:
Essential for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2000 Dodge Ram effectively, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Exterior Trim
Maintenance:
Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Major Overhauls, Adjustments
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Pressure Readings
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.
Digital Format Notes:
This is a printed manual. Digital versions (PDF) may be available from third-party sellers but are not the primary product.
Print Quality:
High-quality paper with clear, legible text and diagrams.
Binding Type:
Staple-bound or perfect-bound, designed for workshop use.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock resistant to workshop conditions.
Engine 3.9L V6 Magnum:
3.9L (239 ci) OHV V6, 175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 5.2L V8 Magnum:
5.2L (318 ci) OHV V8, 230 hp @ 4400 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 5.9L V8 Magnum:
5.9L (360 ci) OHV V8, 245 hp @ 4000 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 5.9L Turbodiesel I6 Cummins:
5.9L (359 ci) OHV I6 Turbo Diesel, 215 hp @ 2800 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (approximate for this era)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (V6/V8), Diesel Fuel (Cummins)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) for some V8s, or distributor-based systems.
Standard Transmission Options
Manual Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6/smaller V8, NV4500 for larger V8/Cummins)
Optional Transmission Options
Automatic Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE for V6/smaller V8, 47RE for larger V8/Cummins)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD (NV231HD, NV241DHD) or Full-time 4WD (Quadra-Trac) options.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-7176E)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II/III or equivalent (check specific manual for NV series)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (check specific manual for transfer case model)
Wheelbase:
Various: 115.1" (standard cab short bed), 134.7" (standard cab long bed, quad cab short bed), 148.7" (standard cab long bed, quad cab long bed) - approximate
Overall Length:
Varies by configuration (e.g., ~199.4" to ~231.4" - approximate)
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long)
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approx. 4,500 lbs to 6,000+ lbs depending on configuration and engine.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Ranges from approx. 6,300 lbs (1500) to 8,800 lbs (3500) - approximate
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 10,000+ lbs (for properly equipped 3500 models with Cummins diesel)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not readily available for this specific model year, but generally performed well for trucks of its era. Check specific NHTSA reports if available.
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some lower trims.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners. Rear seat belts depending on cab configuration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions; refer to manual).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on use; severe use requires more frequent changes).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific engine, climate, and load recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 or equivalent (check manual)
Common Issues Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (V8s), spark plug blow-out (V8s), oil filter housing leaks.
Common Issues Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, worn internal clutch packs (especially with heavy use).
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, steering gear play, front suspension squeaks/clunks.
Common Issues Electrical:
Alternator failure, power window motor failure, instrument cluster issues, fuel pump relay failure.
Common Issues Body:
Rust in common areas (fenders, rocker panels, cab corners), tailgate issues, interior trim wear.
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A, Mopar MO-090
Air Filter Example:
Wix 42827, Fram CA3850, Mopar PA4716
Cabin Air Filter Availability:
Not standard on all models of this year; check if equipped.
Dodge Truck Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, evolving from early commercial vehicles to the iconic Ram line.
Second Generation Ram:
The 2000 model belongs to the second generation (1994-2001) of the Dodge Ram, which introduced a distinctive, aggressive 'big rig' styling that revitalized the brand's truck lineup.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan, USA.
Second Gen Production Years:
1994-2001
