🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Series:

DR/DH/D2 Truck

Vehicle Generation:

Third Generation (2002-2008, with significant overlap from 2001 and 2006 updates)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Target Audience:

Consumers, fleet operators, and professional technicians seeking in-depth information for maintenance and repair of Dodge Ram trucks.

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-authorized procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting guidance essential for accurate and efficient service.

Vehicle Strengths Covered:

Known for robust powertrains, towing capability, and a durable chassis.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (comprehensive for all years and systems)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel - for applicable models within the year range), Transmission (4-speed Automatic 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE, 48RE; 5-speed Manual NV3500, NV4500, G360), Drivetrain (2WD, 4WD systems, transfer case, differentials, axles)

Chassis:

Suspension (front: independent torsion bar, rear: solid axle leaf spring), Steering (power recirculating ball), Brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs, ABS, hydraulic systems)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, battery, charging system, ignition, starting, body control modules, instrument cluster, comfort controls, trailer wiring

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), fuel system, exhaust system

Maintenance:

Routine service (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, belt and hose inspection, brake system maintenance, suspension and steering component checks

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhaul, transmission removal/installation and rebuild, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, starter/alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement, exhaust system repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-to-cause diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, electrical system troubleshooting, drivability issues

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive factory-level detail covering all aspects of repair, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams, printable pages, hyperlinked table of contents for easy navigation.

Print Considerations:

Designed for high-quality printing, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text for workshop use.

Physical Manual Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Physical Manual Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-code), 5.7L HEMI V8 (M-code - introduced later in the generation, relevant for 2003-2006 updates), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (B-code - primarily for Heavy Duty models but relevant for some light-duty applications).

4.7L Magnum V8:

Approx. 235-245 hp @ 4500-4800 rpm, 295-325 lb-ft torque @ 3200-3600 rpm (specifications varied by year).

5.7L Hemi V8:

Approx. 345-360 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm, 375-390 lb-ft torque @ 3200-4000 rpm (specifications varied by year).

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:

Approx. 235-305 hp @ 2900-3000 rpm, 450-555 lb-ft torque @ 1400-1600 rpm (specifications varied significantly by year and trim).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; Direct fuel injection (common rail) for Cummins diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for V8s); Diesel Fuel (ULSD for Cummins).

Engine Identification:

Engine codes are critical for identifying specific engine variants and their associated parts/procedures (e.g., P for 4.7L, M for 5.7L HEMI, B for 5.9L Cummins).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RE, 44RE, 45RFE) for gasoline engines; 5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500) sometimes optional depending on trim and configuration.

Optional Transmission:

5-speed automatic (48RE) for some V8 and diesel applications; 6-speed manual (G360) for some diesel applications.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up.

Manual Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear, dual-mass flywheel (NV series).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler specification) for 45RFE/48RE; Dexron III/Mercon for 42RE/44RE. Consult manual for precise fill levels and types.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear lubricant, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90 depending on application. Cummins transmission fluid specifications may vary.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 134.5 inches for standard cab, 140.5 inches for Quad Cab, 160.5 inches for long bed).

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 229.7 inches to 247.7 inches).

Exterior Width:

Approx. 79.7 inches.

Exterior Height:

Approx. 74.5 inches.

Bed Lengths:

Available in 6.3-foot and 8.0-foot bed lengths.

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration (e.g., 4,500 lbs to over 6,500 lbs for diesel/4x4).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Typically ranges from 6,000 lbs to 10,000+ lbs (for HD models).

Dimensional Variation:

Exact dimensions and weights vary significantly based on cab type (Regular, Quad), bed length, drivetrain (2WD/4WD), and engine configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Ratings varied by year and specific test. Generally performed well for its class but advanced safety features were less common than modern vehicles. Refer to NHTSA archives for specific model year data.

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard on most models, especially with 4-wheel disc brakes (optional on some earlier models/trims).

Traction Control:

Available on some models, particularly with higher trim levels or specific engine options.

Airbags:

Front airbags standard. Side curtain airbags and side-impact airbags became available/standard on later models within this range.

Seat Belts:

Three-point active seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system available on rear seats of Quad Cab models.

Advanced Safety Systems:

Driver assistance systems like electronic stability control (ESC) were not widely available or standard on these models. The manual will detail the systems that are present.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM/CD players, optional Infinity premium sound systems, SiriusXM satellite radio availability on later models.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation systems available on higher trim levels for select years.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Park Assist:

Rear parking sensors became available/optional on later models.

Trailer Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring provisions, trailer tow mirrors, trailer wiring harnesses (4-pin and 7-pin).

Interior Technology:

Interior technology advanced during this generation, with features like power-adjustable pedals, multi-function steering wheels, and more sophisticated climate control systems becoming available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Manual will specify by engine and year.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Check fluid level regularly. Replacement intervals vary, often around 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Diesel transmissions may have different schedules.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000 to 100,000 miles or 2 to 5 years, depending on coolant type (e.g., HOAT). Manual will detail specific coolant and interval.

Spark Plugs:

Varies by engine: 4.7L Magnum typically around 100,000 miles with platinum or iridium plugs. 5.7L HEMI uses two spark plugs per cylinder, typically around 96,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

For 4.7L and 5.7L gasoline engines: SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specification based on year/engine). For 5.9L Cummins: SAE 15W-40 engine oil (API CI-4 or newer).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler's recommended HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) type coolant, typically orange or yellow, meeting specific Chrysler MS specifications. Check manual for exact part numbers and mixture ratios.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system requirements. Manual will specify.

Common Problems 4.7L Magnum:

Spark plug ejection (helixes stripping), cracked cylinder heads (less common than earlier engines but possible), water pump leaks, PCV valve issues.

Common Problems 5.7L Hemi:

Oil pressure sensor issues, lifter noise (related to MDS system on later models), coil-on-plug failures, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on early versions).

Common Problems 5.9L Cummins:

Injector line leaks, VP44 injection pump failures (on earlier CR models), clutch wear (manual transmission), Turbocharger issues (rare but possible).

Chassis And Body Issues:

Rust on fenders, rockers, and cab corners; ball joint and tie rod end wear; sway bar link noise; HVAC blend door actuator failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, evolving from the early Dodge Power Wagon to modern Ram trucks, emphasizing toughness and utility.

Third Generation Ram:

This generation, launched in 2002 (for the 2002 model year), represented a significant redesign from the previous generation (1994-2001). Key updates included improved aerodynamics, interior comfort, and the introduction of the HEMI V8. The 2003 model year saw the introduction of the 5.7L HEMI. Updates for 2006 included refreshed styling, improved interiors, and powertrain enhancements, bridging the gap to the next generation.

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily assembled at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico and the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, USA.

Key Model Years Covered:

2001 (overlap from previous generation's late models/early third gen components), 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for these exact model years can be niche, the Dodge Ram generally received strong reviews for its towing, hauling, and powertrain options, often being a contender in "Truck of the Year" discussions.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports ratings for these model years can be mixed, often citing above-average reliability for powertrains but average or below-average for some electrical and body components. The manual provides the definitive repair information regardless of public perception.

Emissions Certifications:

Manual contains detailed specifications for emissions control systems, diagnostic procedures, and component identification necessary for compliance with EPA and CARB regulations for the respective model years.