Trim Levels Covered:
All gasoline engine trims (e.g., ST, SLT, Laramie)
Chassis Code:
DR (Fourth Generation Ram Truck)
Body Styles Covered:
Pickup Truck (2-door, 4-door)
Drive Types Covered:
RWD, 4WD
Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Owners of 2005 Dodge Ram gasoline models
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Appeal:
Robust build, powerful engine options, substantial towing and hauling capability
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential knowledge for safe and efficient operation and maintenance
Primary Coverage:
Features, Controls, Maintenance, Service Schedules, DIY Activities, Towing, Safety
Estimated Page Count:
~300-400 pages (typical for this model year and coverage)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (automatic), transfer case operation (4WD models), axle operation
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, power outlets, audio system controls, basic electrical component identification
Interior:
Climate control, seating adjustments, interior lighting, convenience features
Exterior:
Door locks, windows, mirrors, exterior lighting, tailgate operation
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement
Diy Activities:
Jacking and lifting points, spare tire and jack operation, jump starting, basic cleaning and detailing advice
Towing Considerations:
Trailer towing guidelines, trailer wiring hookup, weight limits, brake controller recommendations
Safety Considerations:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint systems (LATCH), emergency procedures, driving in adverse conditions
Depth:
Covers operation, basic maintenance, and safety; not a comprehensive service or repair manual
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Gear Ratios 42Rle:
2.45:1 (1st), 1.45:1 (2nd), 1.00:1 (3rd), 0.69:1 (4th), 2.00:1 (Reverse)
Type 2:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500)
Gear Ratios Nv3500:
4.01:1 (1st), 2.32:1 (2nd), 1.32:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 0.76:1 (5th), 3.54:1 (Reverse)
Transfer Case 4Wd:
Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) (NV244 or similar)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Part Number 05010058AA or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Chrysler Manual Transmission Lubricant)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Likely rated 'Good' (though specific 2005 data may vary by testing protocol)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Likely rated 'Good'
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point active belts for front occupants, three-point belts for outboard rear occupants
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette, optional premium audio system with amplifier.
Navigation:
Rarely equipped, but dealer-installed or aftermarket options may exist.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions typically required for aux audio input.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, refer to manual for severe conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on air quality
Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium tipped plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L Hemi:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium tipped plugs)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified (Chrysler Part Number 68001334AA or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:
7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust system components (due to truck usage), potential for oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan on higher mileage units.
Powertrain Concerns:
Early 4.7L models could experience camshaft wear issues if oil changes were neglected. HEMI engines are generally robust but require proper oil maintenance.
Marque History:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust trucks, with the Ram nameplate dating back to 1981, known for its distinctive styling and capability.
Generation:
Fourth Generation (2002-2008 Dodge Ram)
Design Updates 2005:
Minor styling refresh for the 2003 model year included updated grille, headlights, and interior enhancements. The 2005 model carried these forward with potential minor feature adjustments.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico
