🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck

Model Generation:

Second Generation (1994-2001)

Model Code:

BR/BE Series

Model Years Covered:

1994, 1995

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Work trucks, commercial use, towing, hauling, off-road enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Series (Silverado/Sierra), GMC Sierra.

Unique Selling Points:

Renowned for powerful Magnum engines, robust chassis, and Cummins turbodiesel option offering exceptional torque and durability.

Design Philosophy:

Bold, aggressive styling with a focus on capability and durability. The second generation Ram introduced a distinctive forward-thrusting grille and a more integrated look.

Powertrain Options:

Diverse engine lineup catering to various needs, from efficient V6 to powerful V8 and legendary Cummins diesel.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants:

3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8, 8.0L Magnum V10, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Chassis Types:

1500, 2500, 3500

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Chassis Cab

Drivetrain:

2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder heads, valvetrain, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system, engine diagnostics.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500) removal, installation, overhaul, clutch system.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (46RH, 47RH) removal, installation, overhaul, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic systems.

Transfer Case:

NV231, NV241, NV271, NV273 transfer case service, operation, and repair.

Drivetrain Axles:

Front and rear axle assemblies, differential service, axle shafts, universal joints, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, ball joints, control arms, bushings, steering knuckles, alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, linkage, steering wheel, power steering pump and reservoir.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc), brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, ignition system, power distribution, fuses, relays.

Instrument Panel Gauges:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, diagnostic indicators.

Body Interior:

Interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, door panels, carpeting, HVAC controls.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, exterior trim, paint and finish.

HVAC System:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection, battery service.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems, wiring diagrams.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all mechanical and electrical components, torque specifications, special tool requirements.

Overhaul Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and axle assembly disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing common wear items such as brake pads, rotors, spark plugs, belts, hoses, and sensors.

Diagnostics:

Information on using diagnostic tools (e.g., OBD-I, OBD-II scan tools), interpreting sensor data, and performing system tests.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine control, and accessories.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including live data interpretation and component testing.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for certain repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Accessibility:

Instant download, no expiry dates

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

3.9L Magnum V6:

Displacement: 3.9L (239 cu in); Configuration: OHV V6; Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.57 in; Compression Ratio: 8.9:1; Horsepower: 175 hp @ 4800 rpm; Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm; Fuel System: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

5.2L Magnum V8:

Displacement: 5.2L (318 cu in); Configuration: OHV V8; Bore x Stroke: 3.91 x 3.31 in; Compression Ratio: 8.9:1; Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4800 rpm; Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm; Fuel System: MPI.

5.9L Magnum V8:

Displacement: 5.9L (360 cu in); Configuration: OHV V8; Bore x Stroke: 4.00 x 3.58 in; Compression Ratio: 8.9:1; Horsepower: 245 hp @ 4400 rpm; Torque: 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm; Fuel System: MPI.

8.0L Magnum V10:

Displacement: 8.0L (488 cu in); Configuration: OHV V10; Bore x Stroke: 4.00 x 3.88 in; Compression Ratio: 8.4:1; Horsepower: 300 hp @ 4000 rpm; Torque: 450 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm; Fuel System: MPI.

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

Displacement: 5.9L (359 cu in); Configuration: OHV Inline-6 Turbocharged Diesel; Bore x Stroke: 4.02 x 4.72 in; Compression Ratio: 17.5:1; Horsepower: 160-180 hp @ 2500 rpm (depending on variant); Torque: 400-440 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on variant); Fuel System: Indirect Injection (IDI) with Bosch VE rotary injection pump, turbocharged.

Engine Type Differences:

Magnum V6/V8/V10 offer good gasoline performance, while the Cummins diesel excels in low-end torque, towing, and fuel economy.

Gasoline Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with an electric fuel pump and fuel filter.

Diesel Fuel System:

Bosch VE rotary injection pump, direct injection into pre-combustion chambers (indirect injection), turbocharger, intercooler (on some models).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6/light V8, NV4500 for heavy-duty V8/diesel), 4-Speed Automatic (46RH, 47RH).

Transmission Details:

The NV4500 is a very robust manual transmission known for its durability, especially in diesel applications. The 46RH/47RH automatics are strong, electronically controlled units with overdrive.

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

112" (Regular Cab), 131" (Club Cab), 134.7" (Regular Cab Long Bed), 148.9" (Club Cab Long Bed), 134.7" (Chassis Cab 4x2), 135.7" (Chassis Cab 4x4)

Overall Length:

Varies by wheelbase and bed length, typically 199" to 230".

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.6"

Overall Height:

Approx. 73.3" to 74.8"

Bed Lengths:

6.5 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,000 - 6,000 lbs (varies significantly by configuration and engine).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

6,050 lbs (1500) to 11,500 lbs (3500 Diesel DRW).

Towing Capacity:

Up to ~13,000 lbs for properly equipped 3500 models with Cummins diesel.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA ratings varied for this era; specific ratings for 1994-1995 models are less standardized than modern vehicles. Generally considered robust for its class.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) standard on most models or available.

Passive Safety:

Lap and shoulder belts for all occupants, reinforced safety cage construction, dual front airbags (standard).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, and optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary electronic driver assistance feature. No advanced electronic stability control or traction control systems available.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to optional power windows/locks, cruise control, and basic power mirrors. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 30,000-100,000 miles (varies greatly, heavy use requires more frequent changes); Manual: Consult manual, typically 50,000-100,000 miles.

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial fill at factory, then typically every 30,000-50,000 miles for conventional coolant, or longer for extended-life coolants.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Gasoline engines: 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - copper, platinum, iridium).

Diesel Maintenance:

Includes fuel filter replacement (every 15,000-30,000 miles), air filter replacement, oil changes, and coolant service.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or higher, consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CG-4 or CH-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 is common (consult manual for specific Cummins recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (later spec, often backward compatible) or equivalent Mopar specification.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv3500:

GM Synchromesh or equivalent manual transmission fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv4500:

Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) is recommended for later models, check compatibility for these years.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or III, or Mopar power steering fluid.

Common Issues Gasoline:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter adapter housing leaks, ignition coil failures, fuel pump failures, EGR valve clogging, occasional transmission solenoid issues.

Common Issues Diesel:

Lift pump failures, injector pump issues (VE pump), injector line leaks, grid heater failures (cold weather starting), exhaust manifold cracking (less common on early models), front seal leaks.

Common Issues Chassis:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, brake component wear, radiator leaks, AC system issues, rear main seal leaks (especially on manual transmissions).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The Ram nameplate was introduced in 1981 and quickly became a strong contender in the pickup market.

Second Gen Ram Introduction:

The second generation Ram, introduced for the 1994 model year, represented a significant redesign over its predecessor. It featured a more aerodynamic and aggressive styling, a completely new interior, and a significant powertrain update with the introduction of the 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine as a factory option in 1994, revolutionizing the heavy-duty truck market.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (primarily Warren, Michigan; also Saltillo, Mexico).

Production Years:

1994-2001 (Second Generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Engine Awards:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine was widely recognized for its durability, reliability, and class-leading torque, often earning accolades in the heavy-duty truck segment.