Segment:
Full-size pickup truck.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra.
Strengths:
Robust powertrains, towing capacity, versatile configurations (2WD/4WD, various cab and bed lengths), strong presence in work and heavy-duty segments.
Manual Value:
Essential for owners and technicians seeking accurate, factory-level repair and maintenance information for these vehicles.
Manual Coverage Advantage:
Provides deep-dive technical data specific to the 2002-2004 Ram models, crucial for maintaining these robust trucks.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, emissions control, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveline, axles.
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), steering, suspension (front and rear), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, mirrors, horns, wipers, infotainment system, navigation, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), airbags.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, alignments, component replacement, body repair, electrical component repair.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic strategies for complex electrical and mechanical issues.
Quality:
High-resolution scans or native digital files ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images.
Searchability:
Typically includes searchable text for quick access to information, especially in factory-issued digital formats.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Clear, detailed line drawings and schematics for component identification and assembly/disassembly procedures.
Photographs:
May include photographic references for key repair steps or component identification where helpful.
Digital:
N/A (PDF download)
Digital:
N/A (PDF download)
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P/N 5013440AA, 5013440AB, 5013440AC), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (P/N 5080530AA, 5080530AB, 5080530AC), 5.9L Magnum V8 (P/N 5013440AD, 5013440AE - likely for Heavy Duty models, and 5.7L HEMI V8 introduced later in 2003 for Ram 1500).
4.7L V8:
Approx. 235-245 hp, 300-335 lb-ft torque (figures vary slightly by year/tuning).
5.9L Cummins Diesel:
Approx. 235 hp, 460-540 lb-ft torque (depending on injection pump and turbo).
5.7L Hemi V8 (2003.5+ Ram 1500):
Approx. 345 hp, 375 lb-ft torque.
Gasoline Engines:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Diesel Engine:
High-pressure mechanical injection pump (Bosch VP44) on early models, later evolving towards common rail.
4.7L Magnum:
EAG, EVB (specific designations may vary slightly)
5.9L Cummins:
ISB (specific variants apply)
5.7L Hemi:
EZY (typical V8 code for this era)
Manual Transmission Options:
NV3500 (5-speed manual on some light-duty models), NV4500 (5-speed manual on heavy-duty models).
Automatic Transmission Options:
45RFE (4-speed automatic on 4.7L V8), 47RE (4-speed automatic with overdrive on V8 and Diesel), 48RE (4-speed automatic with overdrive, successor to 47RE, typically on Diesel).
Electronic Control:
Later models and heavier-duty transmissions featured electronic shift control and powertrain control modules (PCM) for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to specific manual for gear oil type (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent).
Configurations:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), Quad Cab (four-door crew cab). Various bed lengths: 6.3 ft, 8.0 ft.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR varies significantly by model (e.g., ~6,000 lbs for 1500, up to ~10,000-11,500 lbs for 2500/3500).
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Generally rated as good or acceptable for its era, though specific ratings can vary by year and test.
Antilock Braking System:
Standard on most models, particularly those with 4WD. Available on 2WD.
Traction Control:
Available on select models, particularly those equipped with electronic stability control (ESC) in later years of this range.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags may be optional on some trims/years.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, cassette player options. Infinity premium sound system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Tow Haul Mode:
Available on automatic transmissions to optimize shift points for towing.
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for accessory charging.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 15,000-30,000 miles, change as needed or per severe service schedule. ATF+4 is designed for longer intervals but inspection is key.
Coolant Service:
Initial change at 50,000-100,000 miles (depending on coolant type, HOAT recommended), then every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on temperature and engine, consult manual for specific viscosity grade). API Certified.
Engine Oil Diesel:
SAE 15W-40 (API CH-4 or CI-4 rated) for Cummins 5.9L.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
4.7L V8:
Spark plug issues (broken plugs during removal), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil sludge build-up if maintenance is neglected.
5.9L Cummins:
VP44 injection pump failures (often due to low lift pump pressure or fuel contamination), injector issues, head gasket failures under heavy load if not properly maintained.
General:
Ball joint wear (especially with heavier use), U-joint wear, transmission solenoid issues, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V8s).
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate signifying strength and utility.
Third Generation:
Introduced for the 2002 model year, this generation marked a significant redesign from the previous Ram trucks, featuring a more muscular and distinctive styling. It also saw the introduction of the HEMI engine option later in its run.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America (e.g., Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico).
