🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Generation:

Third Generation (2002-2008) - Manual covers initial years.

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Platform Code:

DR/DH/D2 (Third Generation Ram Pickup)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck, known for robust construction and capability.

Target Audience:

Owners and professional mechanics working on Dodge Ram trucks of the specified years.

Competitors:

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

Vehicle Strengths:

Strong towing and hauling capacity, wide range of engine options, comfortable ride for a truck.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides authorized factory repair information, crucial for accurate diagnostics and repairs, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Diagnostic Procedures:

Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for mechanical, electrical, and body components.

Maintenance Schedules:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks, and replacement recommendations.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for various configurations.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical data.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).

Type:

Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Automatic transmissions (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), Manual transmissions (NV3500, NV4500, G360), clutch system, transfer case.

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, universal joints, wheel bearings, differentials.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear solid axle with leaf springs, shocks, struts, steering linkage, steering gear.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, drag link.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, interior/exterior lights.

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body control module (BCM).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant system.

Safety:

Airbag system, seat belts, passive restraint systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM) diagnostic procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for no-start conditions, poor performance, electrical issues, etc.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.

Transmission Overhaul:

Step-by-step guides for rebuilding automatic and manual transmissions.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams and test procedures.

Suspension Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension alignment.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad replacement, rotor machining/replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, door adjustment, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation.

Depth:

Comprehensive - covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on use in the workshop.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8 (introduced in 2003), 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (available in some configurations until 2004, then replaced by 6.7L in later models, but earlier Cummins are relevant for this manual).

3.7L V6 Hp:

Approx. 215 hp

4.7L V8 Hp:

Approx. 235-260 hp (depending on year and specific tune)

5.7L Hemi V8 Hp:

Approx. 345-370 hp (depending on year and specific tune)

5.9L Cummins Hp:

Approx. 250-325 hp (depending on year and specific tune)

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines; Direct injection for Cummins diesel.

Fuel Type:

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

🔧 Transmission

Transmissions Available:

42RE 4-speed automatic (common on smaller engines), NV3500 5-speed manual (common on V6), 45RFE/48RE 4-speed automatic (common on V8s and diesel).

Transmissions Available:

NV4500 5-speed manual, G360 5-speed manual, 48RE 4-speed automatic (heavy-duty).

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive gear for fuel economy and reduced engine strain.

Transfer Case:

Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. 4WD systems include part-time and full-time options with varying transfer case models (e.g., NV241DHD, NV244).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab.

Bed Lengths:

6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 lbs - 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration and drivetrain).

Gvw Range:

Approx. 6,000 lbs - 8,800 lbs (depending on payload package).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Generally received good ratings for its time, with some variations across configurations. Consult specific NHTSA reports for precise scores.

IIHS Ratings:

Mixed ratings; side impact protection could be a concern in earlier models.

ABS:

Standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) on most models, often with rear-wheel or 4-wheel variants.

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system available on some trims and configurations.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags. Side curtain airbags were generally not available in this generation.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, cassette players (early models), optional Infinity premium sound systems.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation systems available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors available on some models.

Auxiliary Input:

Some models featured auxiliary input jacks for portable music players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions). Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (towing/hauling requires more frequent changes).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SN or SP, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on engine and climate). Check manual for specific engine requirements.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically orange or red.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE. Manual transmission fluid specifications vary; refer to manual.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust system components (mufflers, catalytic converters), fuel pumps, power steering pumps.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Some 4.7L V8s can experience head gasket issues or valve seat recession if not maintained properly. 5.7L HEMI can have lifter tick or MDS issues if not maintained.

Transmission Concerns:

Early 42RE transmissions can be prone to wear; 45RFE/48RE are generally robust but require diligent fluid maintenance.

Electrical Gremlins:

Body Control Module (BCM) issues, power window regulators, and dashboard instrument cluster problems can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate representing a significant portion of that heritage.

Generation Introduction:

The third-generation Ram (2002-2008) represented a significant redesign over the previous generation, with a bolder exterior styling and improved interior appointments.

Engine Updates:

The introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 in 2003 was a major upgrade, providing significantly more power and torque. Diesel engines continued to be popular for heavy-duty applications.

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily produced at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan and the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

The Ram was a contender and often praised for its design and capabilities, though specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for these exact years would need verification.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and powertrain. Manual is essential for addressing potential issues.

Certification:

Manufactured to meet all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS).