Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Ram truck owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust build, powerful engine options (including the legendary Cummins diesel), towing capability, comfortable ride for a truck.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-accurate information to maintain and repair the 2004 Dodge Ram, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership service.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (3.7L, 4.7L, 5.7L, 5.9L Diesel), fuel systems, ignition systems, cooling systems, exhaust systems, lubrication systems.
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions (42RLE, 45RFE, 48RE), manual transmissions (NV3500, NV5600).
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, transfer cases (NV244, NV246), driveshafts, CV joints.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent coil spring), rear suspension (solid axle leaf spring), steering gear, power steering system.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays, body control module (BCM).
Body Interior:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) - Airbags.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul and rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul and repair, brake system bleeding and component replacement, suspension and steering component replacement, electrical component repair.
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems, including engine, transmission, axles, brakes, suspension, steering, and electrical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to advanced diagnostics and complete driveline rebuilds.
3.7L Magnum V6:
Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.72 in x 3.35 in (94.5mm x 85.0mm), Compression Ratio: 9.7:1, Horsepower: 205 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Valvetrain: SOHC, 12 valves.
4.7L Magnum V8:
Displacement: 4.7L (285 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.70 in x 3.35 in (93.9mm x 85.0mm), Compression Ratio: 9.0:1, Horsepower: 235 hp @ 4800 rpm, Torque: 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm, Valvetrain: SOHC, 16 valves.
5.7L Hemi V8:
Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.92 in x 3.58 in (99.5mm x 90.9mm), Compression Ratio: 9.6:1, Horsepower: 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Valvetrain: OHV, 16 valves (HEMI design), Multi-Displacement System (MDS) typically featured.
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6:
Displacement: 5.9L (359 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 4.02 in x 4.72 in (102.0mm x 120.0mm), Compression Ratio: 17.3:1, Horsepower: 250-325 hp (depending on application/tuning), Torque: 450-555 lb-ft (depending on application/tuning), Valvetrain: OHV, 24 valves, Turbocharged, Intercooled.
Tow Haul Mode:
Available on most models, optimizes transmission shift points for towing.
Gasoline Engines:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI).
Diesel Engine:
High-pressure common rail (HPCR) fuel injection system.
Automatic Options:
42RLE (for 3.7L), 45RFE (for 4.7L, 5.7L), 48RE (for 5.9L Cummins Diesel).
Manual Options:
NV3500 (5-speed manual, typically for V6 and smaller V8s), NV5600 (6-speed manual, typically for 5.9L Cummins Diesel).
Transmission Fluid Diesel:
Mopar ATF+4 or equivalent approved for 48RE. For 5.9L Cummins manual (NV5600), typically uses a specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Gasoline:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent approved for 42RLE and 45RFE.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Quad Cab (extended cab), Mega Cab (larger extended cab, introduced later in the generation).
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically ranging from 6,350 lbs to 8,800 lbs or more for heavy-duty models.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly based on engine, cab configuration, and drivetrain. Expect 4,500 lbs to 6,500+ lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (Top Safety Pick ratings often varied by year and specific test criteria, but generally performed well for its class).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control system.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, available side curtain airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD audio systems, with optional premium sound and in-dash CD changers.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors available.
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for charging accessories.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available remote keyless entry system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on engine type, oil used, and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific guidance).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plugs Gasoline:
Replace approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on the specific plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Fuel Filter Diesel:
Replace as per manufacturer recommendation, typically around 15,000-30,000 miles, especially important for diesel fuel quality.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine/temperature requirements). API certified oil.
Engine Oil Diesel:
Typically SAE 15W-40 for the 5.9L Cummins, meeting Cummins CES 20078 or similar specifications. Consult manual for exact spec.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/150,000 Mile Formula, or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 or ASTM D3306.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Problems:
Some automatic transmissions (especially earlier versions of 45RFE/48RE) could experience solenoid issues or wear, particularly with heavy use or lack of fluid maintenance.
Diesel Engine Issues:
The 5.9L Cummins is generally robust, but common issues can include injector wear, turbocharger problems, and fuel supply issues if maintenance is neglected. Crankshaft position sensors can also be a point of failure.
Suspension Components:
Ball joints and tie rod ends can wear over time, especially on trucks used for towing or hauling heavy loads.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, intermittent electrical issues, particularly with window regulators, power locks, and dashboard lights, can occur due to age and connector corrosion.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with strength and utility.
Third Generation:
The 2004 model year falls within the third generation of the Dodge Ram (introduced for the 2002 model year), which featured a significant redesign with a more aggressive exterior styling, updated interior, and new powertrain options like the 5.7L HEMI and revised 4.7L Magnum.
Engine Introduction:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 was a major addition to the Ram lineup, offering a significant power boost. The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel continued its reputation for reliability and torque in heavy-duty applications.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America, with major assembly plants in Mexico and the United States (e.g., Warren, Michigan; Saltillo, Mexico).
Truck Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 2004 model year vary, the Dodge Ram consistently received positive reviews and accolades from automotive publications for its performance, towing capability, and distinctive styling during its generation.
Towing Capacity:
Excellent towing capacity, particularly for models equipped with the 5.7L HEMI or 5.9L Cummins Diesel, often exceeding 10,000 lbs depending on configuration and axle ratio.
Diesel Emissions:
The 5.9L Cummins Diesel for 2004 meets EPA emissions standards for its year. Service procedures for emissions control systems are detailed within the manual.
