🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2003, 2006

Generation Designation:

Third Generation (2002-2008)

Platform Code:

DR (for 2001), DR/DH/D1 (for 2003 & 2006)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Ram (Third Generation) occupied a significant segment of the full-size pickup truck market, competing directly with stalwarts like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra. Known for its bold styling, robust build, and powerful engine options.

Competitive Analysis:

The third-generation Ram continued the brand's emphasis on a bold, distinctive design, often considered more aggressive than its competitors. It offered a range of engine choices catering to both work and performance needs, with a focus on interior comfort and updated features compared to previous generations.

Key Features:

Distinctive crosshair grille, powerful Magnum V8 engines, available HEMI V8, robust chassis, comfortable interior, improved aerodynamics over previous generations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical and electrical systems, body and chassis, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair for Dodge Ram trucks.

Page Count:

Est. 2500-3500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals covering multiple model years and configurations).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - likely searchable and printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (gasoline and potential diesel variants), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD), Drive Shafts, Axles, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), ABS, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Instruments), HVAC System, Body Control Modules, Security Systems, Restraints (Airbags), Body Panels, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Diagnosis and reset procedures for TPMS.

Emission Controls:

Information on catalytic converters, EGR systems, and evaporative emission controls.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Component Removal and Installation, Disassembly and Assembly, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Electrical System Troubleshooting (including wiring diagrams), Repair Procedures for all major systems, Specifications and Tolerances, Special Tools and Equipment.

Chassis Repair:

Includes procedures for frame straightening, suspension component replacement, steering gear diagnosis and repair, and wheel alignment specifications.

Body Repair:

Detailed sections on body panel removal and installation, door adjustments, glass replacement, and interior trim service.

Ac Recharge Procedure:

Detailed steps for safe and proper refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and recharging of the A/C system.

Brake Bleeding Procedure:

Step-by-step instructions for bleeding the brake system, including ABS-equipped vehicles.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to in-depth engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Provides definitions and diagnostic strategies for a comprehensive list of DTCs across all major vehicle systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extensive, high-quality wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, color-coded for clarity and ease of tracing.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Schematics:

Includes vacuum diagrams, electrical schematics, and hydraulic schematics where applicable.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans/digital creation, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Searchable Text:

Yes (if properly OCR'd digital file)

Printable:

Yes

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2001:

5.9L Magnum V8 (245 hp @ 4000 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (215 hp @ 2800 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm).

Engine Options 2003:

3.7L Magnum V6 (215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm), 4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 325 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm), 5.7L HEMI V8 (345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (250 hp @ 2700 rpm, 460 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm).

Engine Options 2006:

3.7L Magnum V6 (215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm), 4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 325 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm), 5.7L HEMI V8 (345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (325 hp @ 2800 rpm, 555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm).

Engine Code 37L:

EER

Engine Code 47L:

ENH

Engine Code 57L Hemi:

EHE

Engine Code 59L Cummins:

ISB

Compression Ratio 47L:

8.9:1

Compression Ratio 57L Hemi:

9.6:1

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. Rotary injection pump for Cummins diesel.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/V8), Diesel fuel for Cummins.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 2001:

4-speed automatic (42RE/46RE) for V8s, 5-speed manual (NV3500) for V6 and some V8s.

Transmission Standard 2003 2006:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for 4.7L V8 and 3.7L V6, 5-speed automatic (545RFE) for 5.7L HEMI, 4-speed automatic (48RE) for Diesel.

Transmission Optional:

5-speed manual (NV3500/NV4500) availability varied by year and engine.

Transmission Features:

Electronic controls, overdrive, Tow/Haul mode (on automatics), integrated power flow management.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

130.5 inches (3315 mm)

Wheelbase Quad Cab:

140.5 inches (3569 mm)

Length Overall:

Approx. 229.7 inches (5835 mm) for 8-foot bed configurations.

Width Body:

Approx. 79.3 inches (2014 mm)

Height Overall:

Approx. 74.2 inches (1885 mm)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 66.4 inches (1687 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

4,800 - 6,000 lbs (2177 - 2722 kg) depending on configuration.

Gvwr Est:

6,000 - 8,800 lbs (2722 - 3992 kg)

Payload Capacity Est:

1,000 - 3,500 lbs (454 - 1588 kg)

Towing Capacity Est:

Up to 8,700 lbs (3946 kg) for properly equipped models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4/5 Stars (for models tested)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4/5 Stars (for models tested)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all wheels, available Brake Assist.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags (later models), front seatbelt pretensioners, collapsible steering column, reinforced safety cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, optional Infinity premium audio system, available navigation system (later models), rear-seat entertainment systems in some configurations.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkView Rear Backup Camera (optional on later models), Trailer Brake Controller (optional).

Connectivity Features:

Available Uconnect hands-free communication system (optional on later models).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe service) or 6,000 miles or 6 months (normal service), or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System.

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (severe service) or 15,000 miles or 12 months (normal service) with approved synthetic oil.

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (conventional coolant) or 100,000 miles or 5 years (HOAT coolant).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Spec Gasoline:

API SN/SP, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on temperature (refer to manual). For 5.7L HEMI, specific oil recommended.

Engine Oil Spec Diesel:

API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic (refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid Auto Gas:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Auto Diesel:

ATF+4 or equivalent heavy-duty automatic transmission fluid.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) - typically Pentafrost® 50/50.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (MS-5911)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

NV244/NV271/NV273: ATF+4 (MS-9602), NV244HD: Mopar Dexterity Fluid (MS-10159)

Rear Axle Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 for heavy duty/towing)

Known Issues Common:

Heater core failures, ABS sensor issues, camshaft and lifter wear (on certain 4.7L engines), exhaust manifold cracks (HEMI), torque converter shudder (automatics), rust on body panels and frame (especially in certain climates).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, with the Ram nameplate evolving from the Dodge D-Series. The Ram became a distinct line in 1981, emphasizing bold styling and powerful engines.

Model Evolution Third Gen:

The third generation (2002-2008) introduced a completely redesigned platform, a more aerodynamic and muscular body style, and the highly anticipated 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. It also saw the introduction of the Quad Cab configuration with four full doors.

Production Locations:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Peterson Publishing:

Named 'Truck of the Year' by Peterson's 4-Wheel & Off-Road magazine for certain configurations.

Award Motor Trend:

Frequently cited by automotive journalists for its power and styling.