🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500

Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001

Chassis Code:

Second Generation (BR/BE)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck market.

Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.

Strengths:

Renowned for robust construction, powerful engine options, strong towing and hauling capabilities, and a wide range of configurations to suit various needs.

Manual Advantage:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing these durable trucks, crucial for optimizing performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, and workshop procedures for all specified models and years.

Estimated Pages:

Over 2500 pages (estimated for a complete factory service manual covering multiple configurations)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, piston and connecting rod, crankshaft and main bearings, timing system, oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, lubrication system, cooling system, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, engine diagnostics, troubleshooting, engine removal/installation, engine overhaul.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery system (MPI), fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, throttle body, idle control, emissions control systems (EGR, PCV, evaporative emission control), ignition system, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500) removal/installation, disassembly, inspection, assembly, clutch system, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, slave cylinder, master cylinder, brake system integration.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (46RE, 47RE, 48RE) removal/installation, disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid, filter, cooling lines, transmission diagnostics, troubleshooting, shift linkage.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case (2WD/4WD) removal/installation, disassembly, inspection, assembly, front axle, rear axle, differentials, drive shafts, universal joints, CV joints, wheel bearings, hub assembly.

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent short-long arm, coil spring) and rear suspension (solid axle, leaf spring) components, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bars, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications, troubleshooting.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering pump, power steering fluid, steering column, steering linkage, alignment procedures, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc front, disc/drum rear), brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, brake shoes, brake drums, master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, bleeding procedures, parking brake system, troubleshooting.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights.

Body And Frame:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seat removal/installation, glass replacement, door locks, hinges, structural components, frame specifications, corrosion protection, rust repair guidelines, body repair techniques.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, blower motor, heater core, climate controls, diagnosis and repair.

Restraints:

Airbag system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, control module, impact sensors, seat belts, child seat anchorages (LATCH system), diagnosis and repair.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, belt and hose inspections, tune-ups, battery maintenance, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, electrical circuit testing, mechanical system checks.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and adjustment of all vehicle systems. Includes detailed procedures for engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension and brake repairs, electrical diagnostics, bodywork, and HVAC system servicing.

Installation:

Instructions for installing accessories and replacement parts, including torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Depth:

Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel repair. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all devices capable of opening PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).

Resolution:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation for clear text and diagrams.

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P/N 53020564AA)

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.7 Liters / 287 Cubic Inches

Engine 1 Cylinders:

8

Engine 1 Configuration:

V8 (90-degree)

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 235-245 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 300-330 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Engine 2:

5.2L Magnum V8 (P/N 53020563AA)

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.2 Liters / 318 Cubic Inches

Engine 2 Cylinders:

8

Engine 2 Configuration:

V8 (90-degree)

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 230 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3:

5.9L Magnum V8 (P/N 53020562AA)

Engine 3 Displacement:

5.9 Liters / 360 Cubic Inches

Engine 3 Cylinders:

8

Engine 3 Configuration:

V8 (90-degree)

Engine 3 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 330-335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 4:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (P/N 3945604)

Engine 4 Displacement:

5.9 Liters / 359 Cubic Inches

Engine 4 Cylinders:

6

Engine 4 Configuration:

Inline 6-Cylinder (I6)

Engine 4 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 4 Horsepower:

Approx. 215-235 hp @ 2700-2800 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Engine 4 Torque:

Approx. 420-460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Fuel Injection:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; Direct Injection with Bosch VP44 injection pump for Cummins Turbo Diesel.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE, 46RE, 47RE, 48RE depending on model/GVWR)

Transmission 2:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500, NV4500 for heavier duty applications)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Transfer Case:

Electronic shift 4WD system available (part-time, 2-speed transfer case) on most models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab configuration (e.g., 131.0 inches for Regular Cab, 145.0 inches for Club Cab/Quad Cab short bed, 163.0 inches for long bed).

Length:

Varies significantly based on cab and bed configuration (e.g., approx. 230-245 inches).

Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches (excluding mirrors).

Height:

Approx. 74.7 - 77.0 inches (depending on configuration).

Bed Lengths:

6.25 ft (standard bed), 8.0 ft (long bed).

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approx. 4,500 lbs to over 6,500 lbs depending on configuration and powertrain.

Gvw:

Ranges from 6,300 lbs (1500) to 10,500 lbs (3500) depending on model and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Frontal:

Good (for 1999-2001 models, generally reported as good for frontal impact in simulation and testing).

NHTSA Passenger Side Frontal:

Good (for 1999-2001 models, generally reported as good for frontal impact in simulation and testing).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels, often on rear wheels as well, depending on year and configuration.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants (depending on seating configuration).

💡 Technology Features

Audio Options:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD player options available. Basic speaker systems, with premium Infinity audio systems offered on higher trims.

Navigation:

Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were the primary options for this era; factory navigation was not common.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Towing Features:

Factory trailer brake controller not available; provision for aftermarket installation. Integrated trailer towing mirrors often optional.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity from the factory. Aftermarket solutions are common.

OBD Standard:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, introduced in 1996, allowing for digital scanning of engine and emission control systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gasoline:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil recommended, check owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (diesel-specific oil).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on driving conditions).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 1 year (if equipped).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Check every 7,500 miles, replace fluid and filter every 30,000-50,000 miles (heavy duty use may require more frequent service).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Check level, replace fluid every 60,000-100,000 miles.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years for conventional coolant, or as per manufacturer's recommendation for OAT/HOAT coolants.

Engine Oil Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred), SAE 10W-30 (also acceptable, refer to manual for operating temperature ranges). API Service Category SL or later.

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CI-4 or CH-4 rated heavy-duty diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 (preferred for most operating conditions). Refer to manual for specific Cummins recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4) - P/N 05013457AA (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv3500:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 (refer to manual).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (P/N 05010885AA for pink HOAT, or equivalent).

Nv4500 2Nd Gear தர:

Some NV4500 transmissions can experience wear on the 2nd gear synchronizer collar and slider.

Heater Control Valve:

The heater control valve can fail, leading to improper temperature regulation.

Manifold Cracks:

Cracks in the exhaust manifolds (particularly the 4.7L V8) are a relatively common issue, causing exhaust leaks and ticking sounds.

Camshaft Wear:

Early 4.7L Magnum engines could experience camshaft lobe wear due to inadequate lubrication on certain lobes.

Radiator Leaks:

Radiators can develop leaks over time, especially around the plastic end tanks.

Power Steering Pump Noise:

Power steering pumps can sometimes become noisy or leak.

Fuel Pump Failure:

Fuel pump failures can occur, often indicated by starting issues or a lack of fuel delivery.

Dashboard Cracks:

The dashboard material is prone to cracking due to sun exposure over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building tough and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with strength and utility since its introduction in 1981.

Second Generation:

The 1999-2001 models represent the second generation of the Dodge Ram (BR/BE chassis), which saw a significant redesign from its predecessor. It introduced a bold, aggressive styling characterized by the prominent grille and integrated headlights, setting a new design trend for pickup trucks. This generation also saw the introduction of the Quad Cab (four full doors) and the robust 4.7L Magnum V8 engine.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Sales Figures Context:

The Ram trucks were consistent top sellers in the highly competitive full-size pickup segment during this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Ram platform historically performed well in industry awards, often competing for titles like MotorTrend's Truck of the Year, though specific wins for these exact model years might vary.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports reliability ratings varied by model year and powertrain, with some engines and transmissions receiving average to below-average ratings, making a comprehensive service manual essential for addressing potential issues.