Market Position:
The 1995 Dodge Ram marked a significant redesign, establishing it as a strong contender in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its robust styling and capability.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, offering a distinctive design and powerful engine options.
Key Features:
Bold 'corporate grille' styling, powerful Magnum V8 engines, available heavy-duty configurations (2500/3500), comfortable interior for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual is an essential tool for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1995 Dodge Ram, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel delivery, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control, engine diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (A500, A518, A618), clutch, torque converter, drivetrain
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instruments and gauges, horn, wipers, power accessories, fuse and relay box diagrams, wiring diagrams
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (twin I-beam or independent), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications
Chassis Body:
Frame, body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass, seals
Heating Ac:
HVAC system, heater core, air conditioning system components, refrigerant, diagnostics
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic information.
Engine 1 Variant:
3.9L Magnum V6 (5.9L Magnum V8)
Engine 2 Variant:
5.2L Magnum V8
Engine 3 Variant:
5.9L Magnum V8 (2500/3500)
Engine 4 Variant:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (2500/3500)
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L V6 Torque:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.2L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 220 hp @ 4400 rpm
5.2L V8 Torque:
Approx. 280 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4000 rpm
5.9L V8 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 160 hp @ 2500 rpm
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Torque:
Approx. 400 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; Bosch inline injection pump for diesel.
Engine Codes:
3.9L V6 (1B), 5.2L V8 (Y), 5.9L V8 (Z), 5.9L Cummins (6BT)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag 360 for gas/diesel V8, NV4500 for Cummins)
Optional Transmission Gas:
4-speed automatic (A500/A518)
Optional Transmission Diesel:
4-speed automatic (A618)
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gear in automatics, heavy-duty clutch in manuals, selectable 2WD/4WD transfer case operation.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Getrag) or SAE 75W-90 (NV4500)
Wheelbase Options:
124.5 inches (standard cab), 134.5 inches (club cab), 154.5 inches (long bed)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab
Bed Length Options:
6.5 ft (standard), 8 ft (long bed)
Gvwr Range:
6,050 lbs (1500) to 10,500 lbs (3500)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,200 lbs to 5,800 lbs depending on configuration.
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Not rated (as per typical 1990s standard)
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Good in frontal offset tests for its era, but side impact protection was limited.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (4W-ABS) available on some models, particularly 2500/3500.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags (driver and passenger), three-point seat belts, side impact beams in doors.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Manual tuning and volume knobs.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models. No electronic stability control or traction control.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports. Auxiliary input may be available on aftermarket stereos.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical recommendation for the era).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months.
Transmission Service Interval:
Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, service as needed.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Spec Gasoline:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature variations).
Engine Oil Spec Diesel:
API CG-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (preferred for diesel).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Mopar OAT/HOAT coolant.
Known Issues Gasoline:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) coil packs, plenum gasket leaks on 5.2L/5.9L Magnum V8s, fuel pump failures, rear main seal leaks.
Known Issues Diesel:
VP44 injection pump failures (more common in later models but can occur), occasional turbocharger issues, clutch wear on manual transmissions.
Known Issues Chassis Body:
Rust on cab corners, rocker panels, and frame; heater core leaks; power window regulator failures.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge has a long history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate becoming synonymous with robust and capable pickup trucks.
Model Evolution:
The 1994 redesign (entering its second year in 1995) was a major step forward, moving away from the previous rounded design to a more aggressive, angular look inspired by the 'Big Rig' semi-trucks.
Production Location:
St. Louis Assembly, Missouri; Saltillo Truck Assembly, Mexico
Production Years For Second Gen:
1994-2001
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While not a specific 'Truck of the Year' winner for 1995, the redesigned Ram was widely praised for its styling and market impact.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation were mixed, with specific issues noted for certain components, making a good service manual crucial.
