Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, heavy-duty segment.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Diesel Engine Strength:
Renowned for its robust Cummins turbodiesel engine, offering significant torque for towing and hauling.
Durability:
Known for its heavy-duty construction and reliability, especially the powertrain.
Towing Capacity:
Class-leading towing and payload capacities within its class for the era.
Coverage Summary:
Maintenance and repair procedures for the 2004 Dodge Ram Diesel.
Estimated Pages:
Likely between 500-800 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Owner's Manual (based on product description referencing 'Owners Manual' and 'maintenance and repair procedure'). If it also includes detailed repair procedures, it may be a combined Owner/Service Manual.
Format:
Printed Book (implied by 'Owners Manual' context, though digital PDFs are also common sales items for manuals)
Engine Management:
Fuel system (injection, filters), lubrication, cooling, emissions control, starting and charging systems.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual/automatic options), transfer case (4WD), driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), steering system, suspension (front/rear), wheels and tires.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, gauges, power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams (likely).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, climate control (HVAC), interior trim, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, air filter replacement, battery inspection.
Basic Repairs:
Component replacement (e.g., belts, hoses, spark plugs - though less relevant for diesel, glow plugs, sensors), minor electrical troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Symptoms and potential causes for common issues, basic diagnostic steps, interpretation of warning lights.
Inspection And Adjustment:
Brake pad inspection, suspension component checks, steering linkage checks, belt tension adjustment.
Capacities And Specifications:
Fluid capacities, torque specifications, tire pressure recommendations, belt routing diagrams.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Owner's Manual coverage, with specific mention of maintenance and repair procedures suggesting it goes beyond basic operation. Likely includes detailed diagnostic trees and repair instructions for common issues, but might not reach the level of a dedicated factory service manual for every single component rebuild.
Digital Format:
PDF (if sold digitally, searchable, printable)
Print Quality:
High-quality printing, clear diagrams and text (typical for official manuals)
Binding:
Perfect bound or saddle-stitched (typical for owner's manuals)
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, often glossy for images/diagrams
Engine Code:
B (for 5.9L Cummins ISB)
Engine Displacement:
5.9 Liters (359 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Fuel Delivery:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for 2003-2004 models
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 305-325 hp (depending on specific model/tuning)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 555-610 lb-ft (depending on specific model/tuning)
Fuel Filter Part Number Example:
Fleetguard FS1001 (Fuel/Water Separator), Mopar 5135526AA (Spin-on Fuel Filter) - Specific part numbers can vary, consult manual.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (NV5600) was common on higher trims, especially with diesel.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (48RE) was also widely available.
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case (NV271 or NV273 depending on transmission).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
NV5600: SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. NV4500 (if applicable): Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Wheelbase Options:
134.7 inches (Regular Cab), 154.7 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab), 174.7 inches (Mega Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Approx:
6,000 - 7,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gvwr Approx:
8,800 lbs - 10,000 lbs (depending on model/trim - 2500 vs 3500)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for driver and passenger, specific results may vary by test)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
May be available on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side curtain airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear seat belts.
Radio Options:
AM/FM radio with CD player, optional cassette player, premium Infinity audio system.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors (heated/folding optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, using a high-quality synthetic diesel oil (e.g., 15W-40 or 5W-40 meeting Cummins CES 20078 spec). Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Fuel Filter Interval:
Recommended replacement every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as per manual/condition.
Air Filter Interval:
Inspect every oil change, replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Typically around 100,000 miles for the initial service, then every 50,000-100,000 miles thereafter, using appropriate coolant.
Engine Oil Spec:
API CJ-4 or CK-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic. Cummins CES 20078 specification is crucial.
Engine Oil Capacity:
11 quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Acid Technology) ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.
Injection Pump Longevity:
Some early common rail systems could experience injection pump wear if fuel quality was poor or filters weren't changed diligently.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
The rear main seal on the Cummins engine is a known potential leak point that may require transmission removal to replace.
Overdrive Band Wear Auto:
The 48RE automatic transmission's overdrive band can wear over time, especially under heavy towing, leading to shifting issues.
Heater Grid Failure:
The heater grid system, crucial for cold starts, can fail over time, leading to difficult starting in cold weather.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable trucks, with the Ram line established in 1981.
Third Generation Ram:
This 2004 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with a larger, more powerful chassis and improved interior.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.
Engine Reputation:
The 5.9L Cummins turbodiesel engine is highly regarded for its durability, power, and longevity, often considered one of the best diesel engines of its era.
Tow Vehicle Awards:
Ram trucks, particularly diesel models, frequently receive accolades and positive reviews from automotive publications for their towing and hauling capabilities.
