🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 3500 HD Truck

Year:

2012, 2013

Model Platform:

DS/DJ Ram Truck Platform

Vehicle Type:

Heavy Duty Pickup Truck

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Heavy Duty (Class 2b/3) Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Commercial Users, Fleet Operators, Heavy Towing/Hauling Enthusiasts

Key Competitors:

Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD

Manual Value Proposition:

Comprehensive DIY and Professional repair guidance, cost savings on maintenance and repairs, extended vehicle lifespan

Vehicle Key Selling Points:

Exceptional towing and payload capacity, robust powertrains, heavy-duty chassis and suspension

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Regions Covered:

Global (North America Focus)

Estimated Page Count:

3000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case, Driveline, Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Brakes, Frame

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules, HVAC Controls

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Seats, Bumpers

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotations, Brake Inspections

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnostics, DTC Code Interpretation and Resolution

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement

Special Tools:

Identification and Usage of Manufacturer-Specific Tools

Specifications:

Torque Values, Clearances, Electrical Schematics, Fluid Capacities and Types

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls)

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced (including wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures)

Repair Complexity:

Suitable for Professional Technicians and Experienced DIY Mechanics

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable (for efficient information retrieval)

Printable:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution (clear diagrams, illustrations, and text)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Engine Displacement:

6.7 Liters (409 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-Cylinder

Aspiration:

Turbocharged, Intercooled

Fuel Type:

Diesel

Horsepower Rating:

Approx. 350-400 hp (depending on model year and configuration)

Torque Rating:

Approx. 650-800 lb-ft (depending on model year and configuration)

Fuel Injection:

High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) direct injection

Emission Controls:

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) injection for 2013 models (and potentially late 2012)

Engine Code:

G9T (Cummins 6.7L ISB/QSB)

Cooling System:

High-capacity radiator, fan clutch, coolant recovery system

Lubrication System:

Wet sump, oil cooler, high-capacity oil filter

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

6-Speed Manual (G56)

Transmission Type Opt:

6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch, tow/haul mode

Manual Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty clutch, dual-mass flywheel

Transfer Case Type:

NV273 HD (Manual Shift) or electronically controlled 4WD system

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Various configurations available (e.g., 140.5" for Regular Cab SWB, 160.5" for Mega Cab SWB, 171.5" for Crew Cab LWB)

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 229" to 261")

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1" to 80.6" (excluding mirrors)

Overall Height:

Approx. 77.1" to 78.9"

Bed Length Options:

6'4" (short box), 8'0" (long box)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 6,500 - 7,500 lbs (varies by configuration and options)

Gvwr:

10,000 - 11,500 lbs

Gcvwr:

Up to 23,000 - 29,000 lbs (depending on configuration)

Payload Capacity:

Up to approx. 4,000 - 5,000 lbs (varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 15,000 - 18,000 lbs (bumper pull) / 20,000 - 23,000 lbs (5th wheel/gooseneck), depending on configuration and specific options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Generally good for its class, specific ratings vary by year and configuration

Braking System:

Heavy-duty disc brakes (front and rear), ABS, Brake Assist

Traction Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)

Trailer Sway Control:

Available

Airbags:

Front airbags, available side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners

Structural Integrity:

High-strength steel frame, reinforced cab structure

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Uconnect system with various screen sizes, AM/FM/Satellite Radio, CD/DVD player, USB, Auxiliary input

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking sensors, available rearview camera

Cruise Control:

Standard

Bluetooth:

Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming

Navigation:

Available as an option on higher trim levels

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 6-12 months for diesel engines, depending on usage and oil type (consult manual for specifics)

Air Filter Replacement:

As needed, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles or based on air filter restriction sensor

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Diesel: Check manual, often around 15,000-30,000 miles

Coolant Flush:

Diesel: Typically every 50,000 - 100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type

Engine Oil Spec:

Cummins CES 20081 or API CJ-4 rated 15W-40 synthetic or synthetic blend diesel engine oil (check manual for specific viscosity and certifications)

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid (specific viscosity depends on temperature and application)

Transfer Case Fluid:

Mopar NV273 fluid or equivalent specification

Rear Axle Fluid:

API GL-5 rated synthetic 75W-90 or 75W-140 gear oil (depending on differential type)

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Diesel Particulate Filter Clogging:

Common in vehicles primarily used for short trips, can lead to DPF regeneration issues and warning lights

Egr System Issues:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can become clogged with soot, affecting performance and emissions

Transmission Governor Pressure Actuator Failure:

Can cause shifting issues in the 68RFE automatic transmission

Udec Actuator Failures:

Urea Dosing Control (UDC) actuator failures can lead to SCR system faults

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Long history of producing durable and capable trucks for work and recreation

Ram Independence:

For the 2011 model year, Dodge spun off its truck line into the separate Ram Trucks brand. This manual covers models produced under the Ram Trucks brand.

4Th Generation Ram:

These model years fall within the 4th generation of the Ram pickup truck (2009-2018), which received significant updates and redesigns.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico and Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 2012-2013 models might vary, the Ram Heavy Duty line has consistently received positive reviews and industry accolades for its capability and performance.

Consumer Ratings:

Generally high for capability and powertrain reliability, though occasional electronic and emissions system issues are noted in owner feedback.

Manual Certification:

Produced to industry standards for automotive repair documentation, providing accurate and reliable technical information.