Segment:
Heavy-duty pickup truck, designed for towing, hauling, and commercial applications.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD.
Model Strengths:
Robust chassis, powerful engine options, high towing and payload capacities, legendary durability.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive service and repair for all mechanical and electrical systems of the 2003 Dodge Ram 3500.
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual Software (likely digital)
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, starting, charging, ECM, transmission (manual & automatic), transfer case, driveline, axles, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (front & rear), wheels, tires, frame.
Body & Electrical:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC, instrument panel, lighting, power accessories, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair & Overhaul:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head service, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, transmission overhaul, differential repair, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering gear service.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, electrical system testing, component testing.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, including specifications, tolerances, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and complete overhaul instructions.
Engine Code:
Cummins ISB (for the 5.9L Turbo Diesel)
Engine Type:
5.9L OHV 24-Valve Cummins Turbo Diesel
Bore X Stroke:
4.02 in x 4.72 in (102 mm x 120 mm)
Displacement:
5.9 Liters (359 cubic inches)
Compression Ratio:
17.3:1
Horsepower:
Up to 305 hp @ 2600 RPM (variant dependent)
Torque:
Up to 555 lb-ft @ 1400 RPM (variant dependent)
Fuel System:
High-pressure common rail (HPCR) injection system
Cooling System:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled with fan clutch
Oil Capacity:
11 quarts (10.4 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact fill)
Spark Plugs:
N/A (Diesel)
Engine Type:
8.0L OHV V10 Triton (Gasoline - less common in 3500 models but possible)
Displacement:
8.0 Liters (488 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
Approx. 310 hp
Torque:
Approx. 450 lb-ft
Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Type:
NV5600 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
48RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 5.94, Rev: 5.43)
Automatic Features:
Overdrive, torque converter lock-up
Manual Fluid:
MS-5408B (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Automatic Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Manual Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 quarts (2.8 liters)
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 12.1 quarts (11.5 liters) with torque converter drain and fill
Wheelbase:
140.5 inches (3569 mm) for regular cab, 160.5 inches (4077 mm) for club cab/mega cab
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (refer to manual)
Overall Width:
Approx. 79.9 inches (2030 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 77.5 inches (1969 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 6,000 - 7,000 lbs (2722 - 3175 kg) depending on configuration
Gvwr:
Up to 11,000 lbs (4990 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 4,000 lbs (1814 kg) or more
Towing Capacity:
Up to 12,000 lbs (5443 kg) or more (with appropriate towing package)
Bed Length:
8.0 ft (2.4 m) standard bed
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (typical for heavy-duty trucks of this era, consult manual for specific ratings)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Base AM/FM cassette/CD player, optional premium sound systems available.
Navigation:
Not available from factory
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Limited, primarily analog audio inputs on higher trims.
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend recommended); longer with full synthetic (refer to manual)
Air Filter Diesel:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Fuel Filter Diesel:
Replace every 15,000 miles (important for diesel longevity)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (heavy use requires more frequent changes)
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CI-4 or CH-4 rated synthetic blend or full synthetic, viscosity 15W-40 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange
Common Problems Diesel:
Injector issues (Cummins 5.9L), turbocharger wear, VP44 injection pump failure (early 5.9L versions), potential for injector line leaks, clutch wear on manual transmissions under heavy load.
Common Problems Gas:
Spark plug issues (V10), exhaust manifold leaks, cylinder head issues.
Common Problems General:
Rust on body panels (especially cab corners and rocker panels), HVAC blower motor failure, U-joint wear, steering damper issues.
Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving into a distinct brand known for its towing and hauling prowess.
Third Generation:
The 2003 model year marks the introduction of the third generation of the Dodge Ram pickup (2002-2008), featuring a significant redesign with a more aggressive styling and improved chassis.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan, USA
