Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Dodge Ram owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.
Diagram Detail:
Contains step-by-step diagrams for complex procedures, aiding comprehension and execution.
Electrical Coverage:
Includes detailed electrical diagrams crucial for diagnosing and repairing wiring and electronic system faults.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, and Maintenance
Specific Models Covered:
Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 Pickup Trucks
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific manual, typically extensive (e.g., 2000+ pages)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Instant Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (including rebuilds), cooling, exhaust, fuel, lubrication, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, gauges, instruments, body control modules, powertrain control modules, entertainment systems, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul/rebuild, transmission repair/rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Installation:
Component installation, accessory installation (potentially), re-wiring procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (for 2500/3500)
4.7L V8:
Approx. 235-245 hp, 290-300 lb-ft torque (variable by year and calibration)
5.7L Hemi V8:
Approx. 345-360 hp, 375-390 lb-ft torque (introduced in 2003/2004)
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:
Approx. 250-325 hp, 460-555 lb-ft torque (variable by year and calibration)
Type:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Fuel Type:
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD)
4.7L V8:
EFA, EFE, NFA, NFE
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel:
CPL (Control Parts List) number will vary, typically found on engine data plate
1500:
4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE), 5-speed manual (NV3500)
2500/3500:
4-speed automatic (48RE for gas, 47RE for early diesel, 48RE for later diesel), 5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500HD)
Diesel Transmission:
6-speed manual (G56) for 5.9L Cummins (later years)
Transmission Fluid Spec Gas Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Spec Diesel Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
NV3500/NV4500: Manual Transmission Lubricant (API GL-3 or GL-4), G56: SAE 75W-85 Synthetic
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 139.1", 159.1", 179.1" for 1500; longer for 2500/3500)
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6'4"), Long Bed (approx. 8') (varies by model and configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,500 - 6,500+ lbs depending on configuration
Gvw Range:
Approx. 6,000 - 12,000+ lbs (GVWR) depending on model (1500, 2500, 3500)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Generally 3-star for 2WD and 4WD configurations
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Base AM/FM/CD stereo, optional premium audio systems, satellite radio availability.
Navigation:
Optional navigation systems were available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking sensors on some models.
Trailer Brake Controller:
Integrated trailer brake controller available on heavy-duty models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (often every 30,000 miles or sooner in dusty conditions).
Spark Plugs:
Approx. 30,000 miles for standard spark plugs, 100,000 miles for iridium (HEMI engines may have longer intervals).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation.
Engine Oil Spec:
4.7L V8: SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher), 5.7L HEMI V8: SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher), 5.9L Cummins: SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (API CJ-4 or newer diesel spec)
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) type, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (AF/C) or equivalent.
Death Wobble:
A common issue with early third-generation Rams, often linked to worn steering and suspension components (e.g., track bar, ball joints, steering stabilizer).
Hemi Lifter Tick:
Some 5.7L HEMI engines can develop a ticking noise from the valve train, often related to lifters or camshaft wear.
Transmission Slipping 48Re:
The 48RE automatic transmission, particularly in heavy-duty applications, can experience wear leading to slipping.
Cummin Injector Issues:
Older 5.9L Cummins injectors can require servicing or replacement due to wear or fuel contamination.
Rust On Body:
As with many trucks of this era, susceptibility to rust on fenders, rocker panels, and wheel wells can be an issue, especially in areas with road salt.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2003-2006 models represent the third generation of the Dodge Ram, introduced for the 2002 model year, featuring a significant redesign with a bolder, more aggressive styling and improved aerodynamics.
Powertrain Updates:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 was a significant addition to the lineup, offering a substantial power increase. The 5.9L Cummins diesel received updates to meet emissions standards and increase power output.
Manufacturing Plants:
Primary assembly often occurred at Chrysler's St. Louis Assembly Plant (Missouri) and Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan).
Truck Of The Year Nominations:
The Dodge Ram line often received positive reviews and nominations in automotive publications for its design and capability.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings for these model years would vary, with some praise for powertrain options but potential concerns regarding reliability in certain areas.
