🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 1500 Series

Model Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004

Platform Code:

DR

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Dodge Ram 1500 Series Owners (2002-2004), DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians

Value Proposition:

Saves $50-$60 per hour on shop labor costs by enabling self-servicing.

Accessibility:

Instant download, no shipping or waiting, view and print as needed.

Searchability:

Search function for quick information retrieval.

Instructional Quality:

Detailed substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers.

Visual Aids:

Detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, enlarged insets.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Styles Covered:

All Styles

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but described as complete)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Included

Transmission Service:

Included

Brake System:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Wiring Diagrams:

Included

Suspension System:

Included

Steering System:

Included

Cooling System:

Included

Fuel System:

Included

Emission Control System:

Included

HVAC System:

Included

Engine Control System:

Included

Chassis And Body:

Included

Restraint System:

Included

Interior Components:

Included

Drivetrain Differential:

Included

Drivetrain Axle:

Included

General Maintenance:

Included

Troubleshooting:

Included

Periodic Lubrication:

Included

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed, Advanced Troubleshooting Guide

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step, Detailed

Maintenance Procedures:

Included

Rebuild Procedures:

Included

Restoration Procedures:

Included

Depth:

Factory Trained Technician Level, Complete

Content Source:

Actual Genuine Factory Manuals (Not 3rd Party)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All PC-based Windows OS and Mac

Printability:

Fully Printable (Any page, chapter, or entire manual)

Resolution:

High Resolution

Binding:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Printable PDF)

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely 3.7L V6 Magnum, 4.7L V8 Magnum, 5.7L HEMI V8 (Specific engines covered depend on the particular manual's scope, but these were the common options for the DR platform).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 215-345 hp (Varies by engine)

Torque Range:

Approx. 235-375 lb-ft (Varies by engine)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Likely 4-speed automatic (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE) and possibly a 5-speed manual (NV3500) for certain configurations.

Transmission Options:

Refer to engine specs for potential variations.

Overdrive Gears:

Common on automatic transmissions of this era.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 120.5 inches (standard cab), 135.0 inches (club cab/quad cab)

Length:

Approx. 205.7 inches (standard bed), 227.7 inches (long bed)

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,500 - 5,500 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically 6,000 - 7,000+ lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Varies by year and configuration, generally rated well for its class.

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard

Traction Control:

Available on some models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Front Airbags (standard), Side Curtain Airbags (optional on some configurations)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems. Cassette player may be present on base models.

Navigation:

Rarely offered from factory on these models, typically aftermarket.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Phone Integration:

Limited to aftermarket Bluetooth kits or basic speakerphone setups on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific engine recommendations in manual).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API certified) depending on engine and climate. Consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Typically HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, often Mopar OAT or equivalent. Check manual for specific type and color.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Likely ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions) or specific manual transmission fluid. Consult manual for exact specification and capacity.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake components (pads, rotors), exhaust system components, radiator and cooling system hoses.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can occur in older vehicles; manual's diagnostic section is crucial.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Specific to engine option (e.g., 4.7L V8 may have concerns related to valve seats or oil consumption if not maintained).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate being synonymous with toughness and utility.

Third Generation Ram:

These model years fall into the third generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008), which introduced significant styling and engineering updates, including the introduction of the HEMI engine for 2003.

Manufacturing Location:

Likely Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Popularity:

The Dodge Ram 1500 has consistently been a strong competitor in the full-size pickup truck market, known for its styling and available HEMI engine.

Jdpowers Ratings:

Ratings vary by year and specific model. Typically competitive within its segment.

Emissions Certification:

Compliant with EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.