🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

RAM 1500/2500/3500

Year:

1998-2001

Platform:

Second Generation (DN)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Heavy-duty work trucks, towing and hauling, commercial use, off-road enthusiasts

Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Powertrain Options:

Renowned for robust engine choices, including the legendary Cummins turbodiesel and potent V10.

Durability:

Known for its strong chassis and drivetrain, built for demanding tasks.

Towing And Hauling:

Class-leading towing and payload capacities in its segment.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

Dodge RAM 1500, 2500, 3500 (all configurations including 2WD and 4WD, various cab and bed configurations)

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All gasoline and diesel engines including 3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8, 8.0L V10 Viper, and 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Transmission:

All manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., NV3500, NV4500, 47RH, 47RE, 48RE)

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axles, differentials, transfer cases (NV235, NV241, NV243, NV244, NV271, NV273), driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, steering components, shock absorbers, springs (leaf and coil), control arms, ball joints, tie rods

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS components, parking brake, hydraulic systems

Electrical:

Charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, power accessories

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, blower motor, controls, refrigerant circuits

Body And Frame:

Body panels, doors, fenders, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, frame inspection and repair

Restraints:

Airbag system (SRS) components, seat belts

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and explanations

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components

Disassembly And Assembly:

Detailed procedures for component removal and installation

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams

Adjustments:

Calibration and adjustment procedures for various systems

Depth:

Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment

Rebuilds:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.9L Magnum V6 (175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)

Engine 2:

5.2L Magnum V8 (230 hp @ 4400 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)

Engine 3:

5.9L Magnum V8 (245 hp @ 4000 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)

Engine 4:

8.0L V10 Viper (300 hp @ 4000 rpm, 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)

Engine 5:

5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (215 hp @ 2600 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm - for 1998-2000) / (235 hp @ 2600 rpm, 460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm - for 2001)

Compression Ratio 5.9L Cummins:

14.2:1

Bore X Stroke 5.9L Cummins:

4.02 in x 4.72 in

Fuel Delivery Gasoline:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Delivery Diesel:

Inline Injection Pump (P7100 initially, later electronic VE Pump with VE pump governor upgrades)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, Diesel Fuel (ULSD for modern use on Cummins)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Light Duty:

5-speed manual (e.g., NV3500)

Optional Transmission Heavy Duty:

4-speed automatic (e.g., 46RH, 47RE, 48RE) or 5-speed manual (NV4500)

Overdrive Gears:

Most automatics and manual transmissions feature overdrive for fuel economy.

Transfer Case Options:

Manual and electronic shift transfer cases available (e.g., NV241D, NV271D).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Standard Cab:

Approximately 131 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

Approximately 148.9 inches

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 206.7 inches for standard cab, short bed)

Curb Weight 1500:

Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs

Gvwr 2500:

Up to 8,800 lbs

Gvwr 3500:

Up to 10,500 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 13,000+ lbs (depending on configuration, engine, and axle ratio)

Payload Capacity:

Up to 5,000+ lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not rated or inconsistently rated across all configurations. Generally considered fair to good for its era.

IIHS Frontal Impact:

Not specifically rated by IIHS for this generation across all models.

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some earlier configurations.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear passengers.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Options:

AM/FM radio with cassette and/or CD player. Optional premium sound systems.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls with optional automatic temperature control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Towing Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring (factory prep) and heavy-duty towing packages available.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily power windows/locks on higher trims, no integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gasoline:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific intervals based on oil type).

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 7,500 - 15,000 miles or 6-12 months (Cummins Diesel, refer to manual for specific intervals).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on transmission type and usage).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Gasoline V8:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Certified, refer to manual for exact spec)

Engine Oil Diesel Cummins:

API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 (Cummins CES 20071/20076/20078 rated oil recommended for longevity)

Transmission Fluid Atf:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for automatics), Manual transmission fluid meeting spec (e.g., Mopar manual transmission fluid or equivalent)

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Heater Core:

Prone to leaks, especially in the earlier models of this generation.

Transmission Cooler Lines:

Corrosion and leaks in transmission cooler lines can lead to fluid loss.

Rust:

Body panels, particularly lower fenders, cab corners, and rocker panels, can be susceptible to rust in certain climates.

Lift Pump Failures Diesel:

In some cases, the in-tank lift pump on the 5.9L Cummins can fail, affecting fuel delivery.

Injector Pump Issues Diesel:

Early VP44 injection pumps on later models (post-1998) can be sensitive to fuel quality and can fail, often heralded by intermittent power loss.

Steering Components:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering box can lead to looseness and premature tire wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing capable and durable trucks, establishing a strong reputation.

Second Generation Dn:

This generation (1994-2001) saw significant redesign from the previous generation, featuring a more aerodynamic and refined exterior and interior. The 1998-2001 models represent the latter half of this generation with minor updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Diesel Engine Recognition:

The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine from this era is widely celebrated for its durability, power potential, and mechanical simplicity, making it a favorite for tuners and heavy haulers.

Truck Of The Year:

While not always winning major 'Truck of the Year' awards outright against competitors, the Dodge Ram consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction for its capabilities and value in the heavy-duty segment.