Market Segment:
Full-size pickup truck.
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, in-depth repair and maintenance information, essential for accurate diagnosis and repair, saving time and money.
Digital Advantage:
Instant download eliminates shipping delays and costs, readily accessible on digital devices.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic & manual), transfer case (4WD models).
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear, independent/solid axle configurations), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control modules, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, bumpers, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Specifications:
Detailed specifications, tolerances, torque values, fluid capacities, and diagnostic data for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Options Available:
5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8, 3.9L Magnum V6
5.2L Magnum V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4800 rpm
5.2L Magnum V8 Torque:
Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L Magnum V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4000-4600 rpm
5.9L Magnum V8 Torque:
Approx. 335-345 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
3.9L Magnum V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175-180 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L Magnum V6 Torque:
Approx. 230-235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for most engines)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RE, 46RE, 47RE)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual (NV3500 for V6/smaller V8, NV4500 for V8)
4Wd Transfer Case:
Electronic (NV235, NV241DHD) or Manual (part-time)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to specific model year)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on transmission model, e.g., 75W-90)
Wheelbase Options:
131 inches (standard cab), 144.5 inches (club cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.5 ft (short bed), 8 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 8,000+ lbs (depending on engine, axle ratio, and configuration).
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Generally 3 out of 5 stars for this era of trucks.
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models, standard on higher trims/later years in this range.
Airbags Availability:
Driver-side airbag standard; passenger airbag optional or standard depending on year/trim.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months for severe service, or 7,500 miles/6 months for normal service (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage and fluid type (ATF+3/4).
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.2L V8: 5 quarts (4.7L), 5.9L V8: 7 quarts (6.6L), 3.9L V6: 4.5 quarts (4.3L) with filter. (Refer to manual for exact capacity).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check specific reservoir/manual).
Common Issues Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor issues (age-related wear), occasional PCM failures.
Common Issues Transmission:
Torque converter issues (slipping, shudder), solenoid failures in automatic transmissions, manual transmission synchro wear.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering gearbox looseness, worn sway bar links.
Common Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster failure (dead pixels/gauges), blower motor resistor failure, power window regulator issues.
Common Issues Body:
Rust formation in common areas (cab corners, rear wheel wells, frame rails), tailgate hinge issues.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Second Generation Ram Introduction:
Introduced for the 1994 model year, featuring a distinctive, bold design with a prominent grille and integrated headlights.
Facelift Details:
The 1998-2001 models represent the second facelift of the second generation, featuring updated interior and exterior styling elements.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
