🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 2500

Year:

2005

Generation Code:

Third Generation (DR/DH/D2)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Ram 2500 (2005) is a heavy-duty pickup truck positioned as a capable workhorse and hauler in the full-size truck segment. It competes with vehicles like the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD.

Competitive Analysis:

At its core, the 2005 Ram 2500 offers robust capability, particularly with the optional Cummins turbodiesel engine, which was a significant draw for commercial users and serious towing applications. The manual provides essential information for maintaining and repairing these powerful, often high-mileage vehicles.

Key Features:

Renowned for its powerful Hemi 5.7L V8 and the legendary Cummins 5.9L I6 turbodiesel engine options, robust chassis, and towing/hauling prowess. The 2005 model year is part of the third-generation Ram, featuring a redesigned exterior and improved interior comfort compared to previous generations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (including Hemi 5.7L V8 and Cummins 5.9L I6), Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Automatic Transmission (45RFE, 48RE), Manual Transmission (NV5600), Transfer Case, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Driveshafts, Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Solid Axle), Steering System, Power Steering, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Disc), ABS System, Parking Brake, Wheels and Tires, Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Instruments, Wiring Diagrams), Body Control Modules, Climate Control (HVAC), Safety Restraint System (Airbags), Body and Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Door and Window Systems, Glass, Bumpers, Seats

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Engine Tune-up, Engine Rebuild and Overhaul, Fuel System Diagnosis and Repair, Ignition System Diagnosis and Repair, Cooling System Maintenance and Repair, Exhaust System Repair, Transmission Removal/Installation, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Service, Transfer Case Service, Driveline Maintenance, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Component Replacement, Brake System Service and Repair, ABS System Diagnosis, Electrical System Troubleshooting, Wiring Harness Repair, HVAC System Diagnosis and Repair, Airbag System Safety and Service, Body Panel Repair, Interior Component Replacement, Glass Replacement, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical troubleshooting with detailed wiring diagrams, and body repair procedures. Assumes a technician with general automotive knowledge and appropriate tools.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

5.7L Hemi V8 (EWG), 5.9L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel (ETH)

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5400 rpm

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

5.9L Cummins I6 Horsepower:

305 hp @ 2800 rpm

5.9L Cummins I6 Torque:

555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

5.7L Hemi V8 Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

5.9L Cummins I6 Fuel System:

High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) Direct Injection

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (NV5600) for some diesel models

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (45RFE for gasoline, 48RE for diesel)

Transmission Features:

Robust designs suitable for heavy-duty applications. Diesel models typically paired with the stronger 48RE automatic or NV5600 manual for enhanced towing and durability.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

134.1 inches (Regular Cab), 144.5 inches (Club Cab 6.3' Box), 160.5 inches (Club Cab 8' Box), 166.5 inches (Mega Cab 6.3' Box)

Overall Length Approx:

230.4 inches (Regular Cab 8' Box) to 258.4 inches (Mega Cab 8' Box)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 feet (75.9 cu ft), 8.0 feet (87.1 cu ft)

Curb Weight Approx:

5,500 - 7,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Up to 9,900 lbs (depending on configuration)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 13,000+ lbs (with proper configuration and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating:

Good (for applicable models)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating:

Good (for applicable models)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional Trailer Brake Controller

Passive Features:

Front Airbags, Optional Side-Curtain Airbags (Mega Cab), Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Crumple Zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models feature a basic AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims may include an upgraded audio system, optional CD changer, and satellite radio readiness.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited for this era. Primarily features like ABS. No advanced electronic driver aids common in modern trucks.

Connectivity Features:

Basic connectivity via auxiliary inputs on premium audio systems. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity typically offered on this model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval 5.7L Hemi:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type).

Oil Change Interval 5.9L Cummins:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (severe service may require more frequent changes).

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 50,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20, API SN/SP or newer (check owner's manual for exact spec and capacity - typically around 7 quarts)

Engine Oil 5.9L Cummins:

SAE 15W-40 (CJ-4/CK-4 rated diesel engine oil), typically 10-12 quarts capacity

Transmission Fluid Automatic 48Re:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Automatic 45Rfe:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transfer Case Fluid:

Mopar NV271/273 Transfer Case Fluid (specific Mopar part number required, or equivalent)

Coolant:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler/Mopar OAT is not compatible)

Known Issues Common:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump), power steering system leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (Hemi V8), lift pump failure (Cummins), injector issues (Cummins), ball joint wear, brake component wear, interior electronics intermittency.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, and later Ram Trucks as a separate brand, has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram line dating back to 1981. The 'Ram' nameplate has become synonymous with heavy-duty capability.

Model Evolution:

The 2005 model year represents the third generation (2002-2008) of the Dodge Ram pickup. This generation saw significant updates, including a bolder exterior design, a more refined interior, and the introduction of the highly popular 5.7L Hemi V8 and the continuation of the highly respected 5.9L Cummins turbodiesel.

Production Years:

2002-2008 (Third Generation Ram)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 5.9L Cummins turbodiesel engine was widely acclaimed for its durability and torque, making the Ram 2500 a popular choice for heavy towing and commercial use. Often lauded by diesel enthusiasts and truck publications for its raw capability.