Segment:
Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Owners, Technicians, Fleet Managers, DIY Enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD/3500HD, GMC Sierra 2500HD/3500HD
Utility:
Built for heavy towing, hauling, and demanding work applications.
Durability:
Renowned for robust construction and heavy-duty components.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (Gasoline & Diesel), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Drivetrain, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & Air), Exhaust
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Comfort & Convenience Systems, Safety Systems
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Doors, Glass, HVAC System, Body Electrical Features
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Component Testing, Circuit Diagrams, Wiring Schematics
Repair:
Engine Mechanical Repair, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
System-Specific Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic checks and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, and wiring diagrams.
Engine Option 1:
6.4L HEMI V8 Gasoline
Horsepower 1:
410 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
459 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Option 2:
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
Horsepower 2:
350 hp @ 3000 rpm (2012-2014), 370 hp @ 3000 rpm (2015)
Torque 2:
660 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (2012-2014), 800 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (2015)
Emission Control:
Includes Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) for diesel models.
Gasoline Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Fuel Delivery:
High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) with Bosch fuel injection system
Transmission Type Gasoline:
6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)
Transmission Type Diesel:
6-Speed Manual (G56) or 6-Speed Automatic (68RFE or Aisin AS69RC HD for specific trims/years)
Tow Haul Mode:
Integrated Tow/Haul mode for optimized shifting under load.
Transfer Case:
Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) 2-speed transfer case (NV273) standard on 4x4 models.
Wheelbase Options:
140.5" (Regular Cab 8ft Bed), 160.5" (Crew Cab 8ft Bed), 172.4" (Mega Cab 6.3ft Bed)
Overall Length Typical:
Approx. 237" - 269" depending on configuration
Bed Length Options:
6'4" (76.3 cu ft) and 8'0" (98.3 cu ft)
Curb Weight Typical:
6,500 - 8,000 lbs (depending on configuration and powertrain)
Gvwr:
Up to 12,000 lbs (3500 models)
Max Fifth Wheel Towing Capacity:
Up to 25,700 lbs
Max Conventional Towing Capacity:
Up to 17,600 lbs
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to 5,700 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Likely 4-star (specific year/configuration dependent, typical for HD trucks)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with trailer sway control integration.
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control.
Brakes:
Heavy-duty disc brakes front and rear, with integrated trailer brake controller available.
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags (depending on cab configuration).
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Uconnect System:
Available Uconnect multimedia systems with touchscreens, Bluetooth, navigation, and media connectivity.
Audio Options:
SiriusXM Satellite Radio, AM/FM/CD/MP3 players, optional Alpine premium audio systems.
Parking Assist:
Available ParkView Rear Back Up Camera and ParkSense Front/Rear Park Assist System.
Towing Tech:
Integrated trailer brake controller, trailer tow mirrors, and optional trailer reverse guidance (on select models).
Usb Ports:
Available USB and auxiliary input jacks for media devices.
Oil Change Gasoline:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on usage, consult manual for exact guidance).
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 7,500 - 15,000 miles or 6-12 months (depending on usage, consult manual for exact guidance, especially with DEF fluid system).
Fuel Filter Diesel:
Recommended every 15,000 - 22,500 miles (crucial for longevity of diesel system).
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30 API SN, Chrysler MS-6395 compliant (consult manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Diesel:
SAE 15W-40, API CK-4 or CJ-4, Cummins CES 20081 compliant (critical for modern emissions systems).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 68RFE; Aisin AFW+ for AS69RC HD (verify specific transmission type).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (likely GL-3 or GL-4).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-90032) or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact specification).
Diesel Exhaust Fluid:
Potential issues with DEF injector clogging or sensor failures on diesel models due to SCR system.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Some reported instances of hard shifting or delayed engagement in the 68RFE automatic transmission, often related to solenoid issues or fluid quality.
Dpf Regeneration:
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration cycles can be affected by short-trip driving, potentially leading to more frequent manual regenerations or warning lights.
U Joints:
Heavy-duty use can lead to wear on U-joints, requiring periodic inspection and lubrication or replacement.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line being a cornerstone since its introduction.
Fourth Gen Debut:
The fourth generation (DS/DJ) of the Ram Heavy Duty was introduced for the 2010 model year, with significant updates for 2012, including powertrain enhancements and styling revisions.
Ram Brand Split:
Following the 2009 model year, Dodge separated its truck division into the Ram Trucks brand.
Assembly Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
Segment Awards:
The Ram 3500 HD has consistently been recognized in its class for towing and hauling capabilities, often earning accolades from automotive publications specializing in trucks and work vehicles.
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally well-regarded for its robust powertrain and towing prowess, though consumer satisfaction can vary based on specific powertrain and trim levels.
Emissions Standards:
Meets U.S. EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years.
