Positioning:
The Dodge Ram of this generation was a significant player in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its bold styling, strong towing capabilities, and a wide range of powertrain options. It competed directly with offerings from Ford (F-Series) and Chevrolet (Silverado).
Strengths:
Renowned for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride quality for a truck, and powerful HEMI V8 engine option. Offered various configurations to suit diverse customer needs.
Manual Value:
This manual is an invaluable resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram. Its step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, and comprehensive system coverage ensure accurate and efficient service.
Vehicle Appeal:
The third-generation Ram appealed to buyers seeking a rugged and stylish truck with a focus on powertrain performance and towing/hauling utility.
Primary Coverage:
All repairs and servicing for the specified Dodge Ram models.
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, component replacement, and system overhauls.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific engine and drivetrain, but typical factory service manuals of this era exceed 2,000 pages.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, and emissions systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires, and frame.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power distribution, body electrical (windows, locks, seats), chassis electronics, powertrain control modules (PCM).
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, seats, safety restraints.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), pinpoint tests, circuit testing.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8.
3.7L Magnum V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 215 hp
3.7L Magnum V6 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft
4.7L Magnum V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 235-260 hp (depending on year and specific variant)
4.7L Magnum V8 Torque:
Approx. 300-330 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant)
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 345-350 hp
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 375-377 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (minimum)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil-near-plug.
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), 5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500).
Optional Transmission:
The 5.7L HEMI primarily came with the 5-speed automatic (545RFE).
Drivetrain:
Available in 4x2 (RWD) and 4x4 (4WD) configurations, with available electronic shift transfer case.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler specification MS-9602).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil requirements based on transmission model.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Quad Cab (Crew Cab).
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Ranges from 6,000 lbs to 8,500 lbs (depending on payload package and configuration).
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Generally good for its class, but specific year ratings should be verified.
Braking System:
Front disc and rear drum brakes (standard on most models), with optional 4-wheel disc brakes on some higher trims. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags became available on later models/trims.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment Systems:
Base AM/FM radio with CD player, optional premium audio systems, optional navigation units on higher trims and later models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) were not common on this generation of trucks.
Connectivity Features:
Power outlets, available steering wheel audio controls. SiriusXM Satellite Radio became available.
Engine Control Unit:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) managing engine and transmission functions. Diagnostic port (OBD-II) for fault code retrieval.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as per severe duty schedule. Manuals provide specific intervals.
Engine Coolant Change:
Typically every 50,000-100,000 miles, or per manufacturer's long-life coolant specification (e.g., HOAT).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check specific engine recommendation in manual), API certified.
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler/Dodge approved HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for precise type).
4.7L V8 Common Problems:
Cylinder head deck warpage, spark plug thread issues, camshaft phaser failures, oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected.
5.7L Hemi Common Problems:
Potential for valve spring issues in early HEMI engines (recall may exist), piston cooling jet failures, fuel injector issues.
Transmission Common Problems:
Failure of the torque converter clutch solenoid, valve body issues in automatic transmissions, potential for transfer case pump failures in 4WD models.
Electrical Common Problems:
TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures, interior power accessory malfunctions, headlight switch issues.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram nameplate has been synonymous with power and utility since its introduction in 1981.
Third Generation Ram:
The DR/DH/D1/DC platform, introduced for the 2002 model year, represented a significant redesign with a bolder, more aggressive styling, a larger cab, and improved interior amenities. It marked the debut of the HEMI engine for the Ram line.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly plants included Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.
Production Years:
2002-2008 (for this generation).
