Segment:
Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians performing maintenance and repairs on 2002 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 trucks
Competition:
Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD
Vehicle Appeal:
Robust construction, powerful engine options (especially the Cummins diesel), towing and hauling capability
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical data required for DIY repairs and professional service, saving time and money.
Engine Systems:
All gasoline and diesel engines (5.9L Magnum V8, 8.0L V10, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel)
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions (NV4500, NV5600, 47RE, 48RE)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear disc, ABS), driveline, axles, exhaust
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module, comfort & convenience systems
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repairs:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension component replacement
Adjustments:
Alignment specifications, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving issues
Electrical Schematics:
Complete wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Tolerances:
Engine component tolerances for rebuilds and critical measurements
Engine 1 Name:
5.9L Magnum V8 (360 ci)
Engine 1 Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V-Configuration
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.58 in (101.6 mm x 90.9 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.7:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Name:
8.0L V10 Magnum (488 ci)
Engine 2 Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V-Configuration
Engine 2 Horsepower:
305 hp @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Name:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (359 ci)
Engine 3 Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Turbocharged, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 2400 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
460 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (approx.)
Gasoline Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Fuel System:
Direct Injection, Bosch VP44 Injection Pump
Wheelbase Std:
134.1 inches (3406 mm)
Wheelbase Long:
154.1 inches (3914 mm)
Gvwr 2500:
8,800 - 9,500 lbs (3992 - 4309 kg) depending on configuration
Gvwr 3500:
9,700 - 11,500 lbs (4399 - 5216 kg) depending on configuration
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle year predates standardized NHTSA side impact ratings)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models with side airbags, if equipped)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side curtain airbags on some trims.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio, and cassette player.
Navigation:
Not available from the factory.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Trailer Brake Controller:
Optional integrated trailer brake controller available on some models.
Phone Integration:
Not available.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or consult manual for severe conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:
Every 15,000 miles
Engine Oil Gas Spec:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific engine)
Engine Oil Diesel Spec:
API CI-4 or ACEA E3/E4, SAE 15W-40 (e.g., Cummins CES 20076/7)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MS-9224, SAE 75W-90 synthetic (NV4500, NV5600)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MS-9224, ATF+4 (47RE, 48RE)
Coolant Spec:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Diesel Injector Pump:
VP44 injection pump failures can occur due to fuel quality or lift pump issues.
Automatic Transmission:
47RE/48RE transmissions can experience torque converter issues or solenoid problems with high mileage or heavy use.
Front Suspension:
Ball joint and track bar wear are common due to the heavy nature of the truck and towing.
Dodge Truck History:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving into a distinct brand.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2002 model is part of the third generation of Ram trucks (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, a more refined interior, and enhanced safety features.
Production Years:
2002-2008 (Third Generation)
Truck Of The Year:
While not specific to the 2002 model, Dodge Ram trucks have historically received various 'Truck of the Year' awards from automotive publications.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally well-regarded for their capability and durability, particularly the Cummins diesel models, although some interior and electrical component complaints exist.
