Vehicle Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, known for its heavy-duty capabilities and towing prowess.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed directly with the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra of the same era.
Platform Strength:
The DR platform emphasized robustness and payload capacity, particularly for 2500 and 3500 models.
Engine Options:
Offered a range of powerful gasoline engines and the highly regarded 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (in 2500/3500 models).
Tow Haul Capability:
Designed for heavy-duty towing and hauling, with configurations catering to commercial and recreational use.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures, component identification, torque specifications, timing, diagnostics.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging, fuel injection systems (including diesel), sensors, ECM diagnostics.
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, diagnostics, fluid types and capacities, control systems.
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, diagnostics, fluid types and capacities.
Drivetrain Four Wheel Drive:
Transfer case operation and repair, front axle, propeller shafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, coil springs, leaf springs, shock absorbers, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkage, tie rods.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics, front and rear brake component replacement, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads.
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, comfort features, accessories.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant handling.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines, injectors (gasoline and diesel), fuel filters.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues.
Repair And Replacement:
Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Overhaul Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine, transmission, and axle rebuilds.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical circuits, testing components, interpreting wiring diagrams.
Depth Of Information:
Expert-level technical information suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, with diagnostic flowcharts.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Special Tools:
Identifies and describes the use of specialized tools required for certain procedures.
Gasoline Engines:
4.7L Magnum V8 (P/N: P7450336, P7450337), 5.7L HEMI V8 (P/N: P7450344)
Diesel Engine:
5.9L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel (P/N: P7450342)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 235-240 hp @ 4700-4900 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 300-305 lb-ft @ 3200-3400 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 345-360 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 375-395 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm
5.9L Cummins Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 250-325 hp @ 2900-3000 rpm (depending on specific engine code/tuning)
5.9L Cummins Diesel Torque:
Approx. 460-555 lb-ft @ 1400-1600 rpm (depending on specific engine code/tuning)
Diesel Fuel System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with Bosch VP44 or common rail injection pumps.
Gasoline Fuel System:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Wheelbase Options:
131.3 in (1500 Regular Cab), 140.5 in (1500 Quad Cab), 134.5 in (2500/3500 Regular Cab), 155.5 in (2500/3500 Quad Cab/Long Bed), 168.3 in (3500 Long Bed Dual Rear Wheel).
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (Short Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Ranges from approximately 6,500 lbs (1500) to over 11,500 lbs (3500 DRW) depending on configuration.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly based on configuration and powertrain, typically from 4,800 lbs to 7,500+ lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star rating for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests (for some configurations).
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good rating in frontal offset crash tests.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard on all models.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.
Seat Belts:
Height-adjustable front seat belts, three-point rear seat belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on engine, oil type, and driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Gasoline:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and climate), API certified.
Engine Oil Diesel:
CI-4 rated heavy-duty diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 45RFE/545RFE, ATF+3 (MS-9224) for 48RE.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85.
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads/rotors, front suspension components, exhaust system components, water pump.
Cummins 5.9L Vp44 Pump:
Known for potential failure, especially if fuel system is not kept clean and fuel pressure is maintained. Some models might have received upgrades.
Hemi 3.55 Gear Ratio:
Some owners reported lower fuel economy due to standard gearing, leading to aftermarket upgrades.
Transfer Case Issues:
Potential for wear in the chain or internal components on high-mileage 4x4 models.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram line evolving from the Dodge D-Series.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2004 model year is part of the third generation of Ram trucks (2002-2008), which introduced significant redesigns, including a larger cabin, improved chassis, and the highly anticipated HEMI V8 and Cummins diesel options.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri; Fenton, Missouri.
