🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2002

Platform Code:

DN (Third Generation Ram)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 Dodge Ram represented a significant evolution in the full-size pickup truck segment, known for its robust construction and powerful engine options. It competed directly with rivals like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado.

Competitive Analysis:

The third-generation Ram (DN platform) offered a distinctive styling, improved interior comfort, and a range of powerful V8 engines that appealed to buyers prioritizing towing and hauling capabilities. Its competitive advantage often lay in its bold design and powertrain performance.

Key Features:

Bold 'big rig' styling, powerful Magnum V8 engine options, comfortable interior, available 4x4 drivetrain, robust suspension for towing and hauling.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical System, Body & Chassis, Emissions Control, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (Typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (Original Factory)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics, timing, component specifications

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid services; Manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid services; Transfer case operation and servicing

Driveline Systems:

Front and rear axle servicing, differential overhaul, driveshaft maintenance, CV joints, U-joints

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle), steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear disc/drum brakes, ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake

HVAC Systems:

Air conditioning system operation, diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, body controls, power distribution, grounds, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay information

Body Chassis:

Body construction, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, bumpers, glass, frame repair (if applicable), collision repair data

Emissions Control:

Emission control systems, OBD-II diagnostics, catalyst operation, EVAP system

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump), transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement (ball joints, tie rods), steering rack replacement, door panel removal, headlight replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution, electrical circuit testing, fuel system pressure testing, ignition system testing

Special Instructions:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, special tool requirements, safety precautions, sealant application, proper assembly techniques

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed Product)

Print Quality:

Original Factory Quality (High-resolution text and diagrams)

Binding Type:

Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound (Typical for factory service manuals)

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code)

Engine 2:

5.9L Magnum V8 (Z-Code)

Engine 3:

8.0L Magnum V10 (W-Code)

Displacement:

4.7 Liters (287 cu in)

Configuration:

Overhead Cam (OHC), 16-valve, V8

Horsepower:

Approximately 235 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Displacement:

5.9 Liters (360 cu in)

Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 16-valve, V8

Horsepower:

Approximately 245 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Displacement:

8.0 Liters (488 cu in)

Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 20-valve, V10

Horsepower:

Approximately 305 hp @ 4200 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4.7L and 5.9L, 89 octane recommended for 8.0L V10)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

45RFE 4-Speed Automatic (Commonly paired with 4.7L V8)

Transmission Optional 1:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic (Commonly paired with 5.9L V8)

Transmission Optional 2:

48RE 4-Speed Automatic (Heavy-duty, often with V10 and heavy-duty applications)

Transmission Optional 3:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual (Rarely equipped)

Transmission Optional 4:

NV4500 5-Speed Manual (Heavy-duty applications)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD (NV241DHD or NV244J) and Full-time 4WD options available

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 133.2" for standard cab, 140.5" for Quad Cab)

Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 221.7" for standard cab short bed)

Width:

Approximately 79.1"

Height:

Approximately 74.9"

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (Short Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration

Gvw:

Approx. 6,000 - 8,800 lbs depending on GVWR package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

4-star (2002 Dodge Ram 1500)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

4-star (2002 Dodge Ram 1500)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, and cassette player integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, available integrated trailer brake controller on higher trims.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by 2002 standards; no Bluetooth or advanced infotainment connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions and transmission type)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on coolant type and vehicle usage)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium)

Engine Oil Spec 4.7L:

SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher, Chrysler MS-6395

Engine Oil Spec 5.9L:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API SJ or higher, Chrysler MS-6395

Engine Oil Spec 8.0L:

SAE 10W-30, API SJ or higher, Chrysler MS-6395

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Refer to manual (typically GL-3 or GL-4 rated gear oil)

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, P/N 05010855AA (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Known Issues 1:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially 4.7L V8), leading to ticking noise and exhaust leaks.

Known Issues 2:

Premature wear on ball joints and tie rod ends due to vehicle weight and usage.

Known Issues 3:

Transmission issues, particularly in earlier 45RFE models, sometimes related to solenoid packs or torque converter clutch.

Known Issues 4:

Water pump leaks on the 4.7L V8, often due to plastic housing failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving from the D-Series trucks into a dominant force in the pickup market.

Model Evolution:

The 2002 model year marked the introduction of the third generation (DN platform) Dodge Ram, which featured a completely redesigned exterior and interior, a more powerful engine lineup, and improved chassis dynamics compared to its predecessor.

Production Location:

Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Coahuila, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

Third Generation (DN): 2002-2008

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognized As:

The third-generation Ram was often praised for its bold styling and powerful V8 engines, solidifying its reputation as a capable and desirable full-size truck.