🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

W350

Year:

1990

Vehicle Type:

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Chassis Code:

Ram Series (often referred to as third generation Ram pickup)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Commercial users, fleet operators, towing enthusiasts, serious DIY mechanics

Key Competitors:

Ford F-250/F-350, Chevrolet C30/K30 Silverado

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust chassis, strong towing and payload capacity, reliable powertrains, durable construction

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Diagnostic Procedures:

Comprehensive diagnostics for all major systems

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components

Maintenance Schedules:

Factory-recommended maintenance intervals and procedures

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts for common and uncommon issues

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system wiring diagrams

Estimated Pages:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for OEM service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely searchable PDF or proprietary format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, torque specifications, internal components, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshafts, camshafts

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission Manual:

CL500, NV4500 (if applicable, though less common for 1990 W350) clutch, gearbox, shift mechanisms, removal, installation, overhaul

Transmission Automatic:

A518 (3-speed with overdrive) torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, service and overhaul

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, differentials, driveshafts, U-joints, transfer case (for 4x4 models)

Suspension:

Front suspension (leaf springs, shocks, steering linkage), rear suspension (leaf springs, shocks), alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, linkage, column, components

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, power windows/locks (if equipped), trailer wiring

Body And Frame:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass, seals, body repair procedures

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, operation, and service

General Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston ring installation, bearing replacement, valve seat grinding

Transmission Repair:

Internal transmission component replacement, seal replacement, clutch adjustment, transmission fluid flush and fill

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake line bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Component testing, circuit tracing, diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams

Suspension Alignment:

Front-end alignment procedures and specifications

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for replacing fenders, doors, hood, etc.

Diagnosing Common Failures:

Specific guidance on identifying and rectifying typical problems

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers

Diagnostic Tools:

References to required special tools and diagnostic equipment

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all fasteners

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specifications for critical component clearances and wear limits

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Type:

Digital Service Manual Software

Searchability:

Likely features full-text search functionality

Compatibility:

Requires compatible operating system (e.g., Windows XP, Vista, 7, or newer depending on software)

Media Format:

Typically delivered on CD-ROM or via download link

Printability:

Digital format allows for selective printing of sections

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.2L V8 Magnum (318 ci), 5.9L V8 Magnum (360 ci), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Engine Code V8 318:

318-3 V8

Engine Code V8 360:

360-3 V8

Engine Code Cummins:

4BTAA / 6BTAA (depending on specific configuration, 5.9L is typically 6BT)

Horsepower 318:

Approx. 230 hp @ 4000 RPM

Torque 318:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM

Horsepower 360:

Approx. 240 hp @ 4000 RPM

Torque 360:

Approx. 320 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM

Horsepower Cummins:

Approx. 160-180 hp @ 2500 RPM (depending on turbo/intercooler setup)

Torque Cummins:

Approx. 400-420 lb-ft @ 1700 RPM

Fuel Delivery V8:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (V8), Diesel Fuel (Cummins)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent meeting Chrysler spec MS-7170)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Gas:

A518 3-Speed Automatic with Overdrive (for 5.2L and 5.9L V8)

Transmission Type Diesel:

NV4500 5-Speed Manual Transmission (standard for Cummins diesel, optional automatic)

Transmission Type Optional Diesel:

A518 3-Speed Automatic with Overdrive (for Cummins diesel)

Transmission Type Optional Gas:

New Process NP435 4-Speed Manual (less common on higher trims, but possible)

Transmission Fluid A518:

Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent Mopar ATF+4 (though ATF+4 was introduced later, compatibility should be checked)

Transmission Fluid Nv4500:

API GL-4 5W-30 or 5W-40 gear oil (specific type critical to prevent synchro damage)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

131.0 inches (3327 mm) for standard cab, long bed

Wheelbase:

131.0 inches (3327 mm) for standard cab, long bed

Overall Length:

Approx. 230 inches (5842 mm) for standard cab, long bed

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.3 inches (2014 mm) (excluding mirrors)

Overall Height:

Approx. 73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Bed Options:

8 ft (2438 mm) or 10 ft (3048 mm) depending on configuration

Curb Weight Srw:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2041 - 2495 kg) depending on engine/cab

Curb Weight Drw:

Approx. 5,000 - 6,000 lbs (2268 - 2722 kg) depending on engine/cab

Gvwr Srw:

Approx. 6,700 - 8,000 lbs (3039 - 3629 kg)

Gvwr Drw:

Approx. 9,000 - 10,000 lbs (4082 - 4536 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 12,000 lbs (5443 kg) or more, depending on configuration and axle ratio

Payload Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) or more, depending on configuration and axle ratio

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Data from 1990 is limited, but heavy-duty trucks generally focus on structural integrity and occupant protection under specific test conditions. No star ratings like modern vehicles.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on rear wheels, standard on some later models/configurations

Traction Control:

Traction control not generally available on 1990 models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag optional, passenger airbags not available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear (if applicable)

Reinforced Cabin:

Integrated roll bar structure in roof and A-pillars for improved structural rigidity.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player or CD player. Basic speaker systems.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls (heater, fan, vent selection). Optional air conditioning.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Trailer Brakes:

Integrated trailer brake controller not standard; aftermarket options available.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports. Trailer lighting connectors are standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months for gasoline engines; 5,000 - 10,000 miles or 6-12 months for Cummins diesel, depending on driving conditions and oil type.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles for gasoline; 10,000 - 20,000 miles for Cummins diesel.

Transmission Service Interval:

Automatic: 30,000 - 60,000 miles; Manual: Check per specific manual chapter, typically less frequent. Fluid and filter replacement recommended.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most ambient temperatures. Consult manual for extreme conditions.

Engine Oil Diesel:

API Service CD, CE, or CF-4, SAE 15W-40 recommended for Cummins. Use high-quality diesel-specific oil.

Coolant Specification:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent meeting Chrysler spec MS-7170.

Common Wear Items:

Leaf springs, U-joints, ball joints, tie rod ends, brake components (rotors, pads, drums, shoes), exhaust systems, radiator, water pump, power steering pumps.

Cummins Specific:

Injection pump seals, AFC (Air Fuel Control) issues, turbocharger wear, potential for injector line leaks, fuel filter head cracking.

Gasoline Engine Specific:

Lifter tick on 318/360 engines, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor issues, alternator failures.

Transmission Specific:

A518 torque converter lock-up solenoid issues, potential for planetary gear failure under extreme stress; NV4500 main shaft nut loosening (requires preventative maintenance).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The 'W' series denoted 4x2 or 4x4 trucks, with '350' indicating a heavy-duty 1-ton rating.

Ram Generation:

The 1990 W350 belongs to the third generation of Dodge Ram trucks (1981-1993), which saw significant styling updates and the introduction of more powerful engines, including the Cummins diesel.

Introduction Of Cummins:

The 1989 model year marked the highly anticipated introduction of the 5.9L Cummins 6BT turbodiesel engine, a game-changer in the segment for its reliability and torque.

Manufacturing Plant:

Saltillo, Mexico and Warren, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

Third generation Ram trucks produced from 1981 to 1993. W350 variants were consistently offered throughout this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While this specific generation may not have won major 'Truck of the Year' awards for 1990, the Cummins-equipped Ram trucks of this era were highly regarded for their diesel powertrain, often lauded in enthusiast circles and trade publications for their durability and towing prowess.

Emissions Compliance:

Meets all applicable EPA and California emissions standards for the 1990 model year.