Segment:
Full-Size Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Strengths Of Vehicle:
Robust construction, towing and payload capacity, HEMI V8 engine option, versatile platform for work and recreation.
Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs efficiently and accurately, saving time and money compared to dealership service.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Hydraulic), Driveline, Differential, Tires & Wheels
Electrical:
Ignition Control, Audio/Video, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Navigation/Telecommunication, Electronic Control Modules (ECM/PCM), Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Frame & Bumpers, Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Reassembly, Adjustments, System Overhauls
Technical Information:
Specifications, Torque Values, Component Identification, System Operation Descriptions
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly and disassembly, piston and rod installation, crankshaft and bearing service, cylinder head removal/installation, valve train service, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable).
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions, including valve body service, clutch pack replacement, and gear set inspection.
Brake System Repair:
Brake fluid replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder service, brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, ABS component diagnostics and replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, diagnostic connector access, component testing using multimeters and scan tools, fuse and relay identification and testing.
Body Panel Repair:
Body panel alignment, door and tailgate adjustment, glass replacement procedures, bumper repair/replacement.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling and recovery, evaporator and condenser service, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, control system diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds), includes detailed step-by-step procedures, diagrams, and illustrations.
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed 'Causes and Effects' troubleshooting charts to systematically identify problems.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Abundant exploded views, assembly diagrams, wiring schematics, and system illustrations.
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (PZEV), 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.7L Magnum V6 (less common in 2500/3500), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (2500/3500)
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 345-360 hp (varies slightly by model year/application)
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 375-395 lb-ft (varies slightly by model year/application)
Induction:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Block Material:
Cast Iron (Magnum V6/V8), Cast Iron (HEMI V8), Cast Iron (Cummins Diesel)
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum (Magnum V6/V8, HEMI V8), Cast Iron (Cummins Diesel)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Quad Cab (extended cab with rear doors), Crew Cab (four full doors, introduced later in the generation)
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model (1500, 2500, 3500) and configuration, typically from 7,000 lbs to over 11,000 lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for 2004 models, though variations exist)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 2004 models, though variations exist)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for comparable models/years)
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Disc (most models), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on 4-wheel disc brakes.
Restraint System:
Front Airbags (driver & passenger), Seatbelt pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for exact specifications).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Approximately every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Diesel transmissions and manuals have different schedules.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30. API Certified. Capacity ~7 US quarts (with filter).
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe/48Re:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent. Capacity varies by model and configuration.
Coolant Type:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Hemi 3.7 V8 Issues:
Valve spring failures (especially early models), occasional oil consumption.
Transmission Issues:
48RE automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit shifting issues or wear.
Suspension Chassis Issues:
Ball joint wear, steering component wear, potential for rust on frame and body panels in certain climates.
Interior Wear:
Wear on driver's seat bolsters, dashboard materials can become brittle.
