🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck Series

Year:

2003

Platform Code:

Third Generation Ram (DR/DH/D1)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Key Competitors 2003:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan (introduced later).

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust construction, strong towing and payload capacities, choice of powerful V8 and diesel engines, comfortable interior for its class, diverse configurations (2WD/4WD, cab styles, bed lengths).

📋 Manual Details

Engines Covered:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000+ (typical for a complete workshop manual of this era and scope)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system (all variants), ignition system (all variants), exhaust system (all variants), transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components (rear axle, 4WD systems).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS, VDC).

Electrical:

Charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories, HVAC electrical controls, diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, glass, paint repair, chassis lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical schematics interpretation.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tire rotation, tune-ups.

Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, diagnostic specifications, performance specifications, alignment specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Features:

Searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, printable pages, bookmark functionality.

Diagram Clarity:

High-quality, detailed schematics and illustrations for clear understanding of procedures and component locations.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Paper Emulation:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

3.7L Magnum V6:

Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in), Configuration: V6, Fuel System: Sequential MPI, Horsepower: ~215 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: ~235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Features: SOHC, Iron block, Aluminum heads.

4.7L Magnum V8:

Displacement: 4.7L (287 cu in), Configuration: V8, Fuel System: Sequential MPI, Horsepower: ~245-260 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: ~300-325 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm. Features: SOHC, Iron block, Aluminum heads. Note: Improved version of the older 5.2L/5.9L Magnum.

5.7L Hemi V8:

Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in), Configuration: V8, Fuel System: Sequential MPI, Horsepower: ~345-360 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm, Torque: ~375-390 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm. Features: OHV, Multi-displacement System (MDS) introduced later in the generation, Iron block, Aluminum heads.

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6:

Displacement: 5.9L (359 cu in), Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder, Fuel System: High-pressure common rail (HPCR) for 2003, Turbocharged, Intercooled, Horsepower: ~250-305 hp @ 2900 rpm, Torque: ~555-600 lb-ft @ 1400-1600 rpm. Features: OHV, Cast iron block and head, Known for durability and towing.

Fuel Type Gas:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.7L & 4.7L, 89 octane for 5.7L HEMI generally).

Fuel Type Diesel:

Diesel fuel (ULSD - Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel required for 2003 and later).

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. High-pressure common rail (HPCR) for 5.9L Cummins.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE for V8s, 42RLE for V6). 48RE is a heavy-duty version of the 47RH/RE.

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8/Diesel).

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (RWD), 4WD with part-time transfer case (manual or electronic shift depending on trim).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Varied by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 130.2" for regular cab, short bed; 148.7" for crew cab, short bed; 160.7" for regular cab, long bed).

Overall Length Options:

Varied by configuration, generally from 209.7" to 243.7".

Bed Length Options:

Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 4,600 lbs to 6,000+ lbs, depending on configuration and engine.

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to ~10,000 lbs (properly equipped, typically with 5.9L Cummins or 5.7L HEMI and appropriate axle ratio/package).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not directly applicable to this era's reporting format in a standardized way, but the generation generally performed adequately for its class.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Not directly applicable to this era's reporting format in a standardized way.

ABS:

Standard on all models.

Traction Control:

Available on certain trims/options, particularly with 4WD.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional Infinity premium audio systems. Cassette players still available on some base models. Auxiliary input ports not standard, may require aftermarket solution.

Navigation:

Rare factory navigation systems available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking sensors were an option on some higher trim levels.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory in 2003. Aftermarket solutions required.

Usb Port:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to specific engine recommendation.

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500-15,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil quality and driving conditions (heavy towing may require more frequent changes). Cummins 5.9L often uses longer intervals with high-quality synthetic diesel oil.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Diesel manual transmissions may have longer intervals. Refer to manual for specific fluid type and procedure.

Engine Oil 3.7L/4.7L:

SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific API service classification). Capacity: ~5-6 quarts.

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20 (check manual for specific API service classification). Capacity: ~7 quarts.

Engine Oil 5.9L Cummins:

API CJ-4 or CI-4 rated synthetic diesel oil (e.g., 15W-40 or 5W-40 for colder climates). Capacity: ~11-12 quarts. Use only dedicated diesel engine oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (Chrysler's proprietary fluid). Capacity varies by transmission model.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv3500:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90). Capacity: ~2.3 quarts.

Transmission Fluid Manual Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 75W-85). Capacity: ~3.5 quarts.

Coolant:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent. Pre-mixed 50/50 is common. Capacity: ~14-18 quarts depending on engine and radiator size.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Common Diesel Issues 5.9L:

Lift pump failures (VP44 injection pump can be sensitive to fuel pressure), occasional injector issues, crank position sensor failures, exhaust manifold cracks (less common on early 3rd gen vs 2nd gen).

Common Gasoline Issues:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump), intermittent misfires (spark plugs, coil packs), exhaust manifold cracks (especially on earlier V8s), throttle body issues, ABS sensor failures.

Common Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission solenoid issues, torque converter problems, eventual wear on clutches in high-mileage units. Manual transmissions are generally robust.

Common Chassis Issues:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, U-joint wear (especially on driveshafts), front suspension component wear, potential for rust in certain climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the 'Ram' nameplate signifying ruggedness and utility since its introduction in 1981.

Third Generation Introduction:

The 2002 model year marked the introduction of the third generation Ram (DB/DC/DM platform), featuring a significantly redesigned exterior and interior, improved chassis, and new powertrain options. The 2003 model year continued this generation with refinements and the introduction of the HEMI engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan.

Production Years For Generation:

2002-2008

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Dodge Ram was a strong contender in its segment but did not win MotorTrend's Truck of the Year award for the 2003 model year (that went to the Ford F-150).

J.D. Power Dependability:

J.D. Power and Associates ratings for this generation of Ram varied, with some areas showing strengths and others indicating average or below-average reliability compared to competitors. The 5.9L Cummins was consistently rated highly for durability.

Kbb Resale Value:

The Ram Truck series, especially diesel models, typically held good to excellent resale value due to their durability and towing capabilities.