🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500

Model Generation:

Second Generation (Second Facelift)

Chassis Codes:

DR/DH/D2 Platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians

Key Competitors:

Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra (introduced later).

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust construction, powerful engine options, comfortable ride for its class, strong towing and hauling capability, distinct styling.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, factory-level repair and maintenance information to empower owners and technicians, saving time and money on repairs compared to dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (estimated, based on typical workshop manuals for this era and scope)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine fuel, engine cooling, engine lubrication, engine electrical, exhaust systems, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, driveline components (driveshafts, U-joints, differentials).

Chassis:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments and gauges, power distribution, starting and charging, infotainment systems, safety systems (ABS, airbags).

Body:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, body seals, bumpers.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnostics and repair, body panel replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-II), component testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, component dimensions.

Engine Mechanical Repair:

Cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, camshaft inspection/replacement, timing component service (chain/gears).

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of automatic and manual transmissions, including clutch pack replacement, valve body service, and gear inspection.

Brake System Repair:

Disc brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul/replacement, drum brake shoe/hardware replacement, wheel cylinder service, brake line inspection/replacement, ABS component testing.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including lighting, starting, charging, ignition, fuel injection, body controls, and accessory circuits.

HVAC System Service:

Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling (where applicable for DIY or professional focus), blower motor replacement, blend door actuator service, and heater core replacement.

Body And Trim Repair:

Procedures for interior panel removal/installation, exterior trim replacement, door and window mechanisms, seat adjustment and repair, and basic body panel alignment.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics. Assumes general automotive knowledge and tool proficiency.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital PDF

Quality:

Likely scanned from original factory service manuals, quality can vary. Generally includes clear diagrams and text.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code Name:

Magnum 3.9L V6

Engine 1 Configuration:

3.9L (239 cu in) OHV V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 175-180 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 230-235 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm

Engine 2 Code Name:

Magnum 5.2L V8

Engine 2 Configuration:

5.2L (318 cu in) OHV V8

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 230-245 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 295-315 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm

Engine 3 Code Name:

Magnum 5.9L V8

Engine 3 Configuration:

5.9L (360 cu in) OHV V8

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 245-250 hp @ 4600-5000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 330-345 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm

Induction Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Emissions Control:

OBD-II compliant, catalytic converters.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type V6:

4-speed automatic (42RE)

Transmission Type V8:

4-speed automatic (46RE, 47RE depending on engine/drivetrain)

Transmission Type Manual:

5-speed manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for some V8 applications, typically heavier duty models or specific packages)

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Part-time, with transfer case).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std:

134.0 inches (3404 mm)

Wheelbase Long:

139.0 inches (3531 mm) (for longer bed configurations)

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration, e.g., approx. 229.7 inches (5834 mm) for Quad Cab 8-ft bed.

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 74.6 inches (1895 mm)

Bed Lengths:

6.5 ft (standard bed), 8 ft (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2041 - 2495 kg), depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Range of 6,050 to 6,500 lbs (2744 to 2948 kg) or higher for heavier duty configurations.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Typically 4 out of 5 stars for 2WD, 3 out of 5 stars for 4WD (typical for trucks of this era).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, with driver and front passenger pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker base, 6-speaker premium).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, often column-mounted.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

OBD Ii Port:

Standard OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port for emissions and engine diagnostics, located typically under the dashboard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type. Platinum plugs typically last longer (e.g., 100,000 miles), while conventional plugs may need replacement every 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Manual transmissions may have longer intervals or be considered 'lifetime' fill but still benefit from inspection and potential replacement.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended for most engines, consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature. API Certified oil required.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Varies by engine: 3.9L V6 approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L); 5.2L V8 approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L); 5.9L V8 approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter. (Verify with manual).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar HOAT coolant or equivalent). Mixture typically 50/50 with distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Atf:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (later models may specify ATF+4). Capacity approx. 4-5 quarts (3.8-4.7 L) for a drain and fill, significantly more for a complete overhaul.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems Engine:

Oil leaks (valve covers, oil pan), plenum gasket failure (in some V8s, leading to vacuum leaks), spark plug blowouts (especially with original plugs), exhaust manifold cracks.

Common Problems Transmission:

Torque converter shudder, automatic transmission solenoid issues, manual transmission clutch wear.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, worn sway bar links, steering gear play.

Common Problems Electrical:

Instrument cluster failure (especially speedometer), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, power window motor issues, headlight switch failure.

Common Problems Body:

Rust issues on frame rails, rocker panels, and wheel wells, especially in northern climates. Door lock actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram line became a distinct brand in 1993, emphasizing power and toughness.

Second Generation:

The second generation Dodge Ram (DN platform) debuted in 1994 with a revolutionary, muscular design. The 1998-2001 models represent the second facelift of this generation, featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain improvements. Key features included the distinctive crosshair grille and improved aerodynamics.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Period:

Second generation: 1994-2001. Specific facelift: 1998-2001.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards for the 1998-2001 facelift might be harder to pinpoint, the second-generation Ram series itself garnered significant attention and positive reviews for its bold styling and capabilities, often placing highly in comparisons against competitors.

Consumer Reviews:

Generally favorable for powertrain durability and towing capacity, though some issues with interior materials and electrical components were noted in consumer feedback.