Market Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust powertrain options, towing capability, strong chassis, spacious cabin, wide range of configurations (2WD/4WD, cab styles, bed lengths)
User Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform comprehensive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving time and money.
Engine Coverage:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8
Transmission Coverage:
42RLE Automatic, NV3500 Manual, NV4500 Manual
Chassis Coverage:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Frame
Electrical Coverage:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Immobilizer
Body Coverage:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seating Systems, Glass, Bumpers
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline (2WD and 4WD systems), transfer case
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for all electrical components, lighting, gauges, body electrical, comfort systems (HVAC), trailer wiring
Body:
Body structural repairs, exterior components, interior trim and upholstery, glass, locks, latches, safety restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major and minor repairs, engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake service, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures for all major systems, use of diagnostic scan tools
Technical Information:
Specifications, torques, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, component location charts
Depth:
Complete, from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical system diagnostics and repairs.
Transmission 1 Type:
42RLE 4-speed Automatic
Transmission 1 Driveline:
Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations
Transmission 2 Type:
NV3500 5-speed Manual
Transmission 2 Driveline:
Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations (typically with V6 engines)
Transmission 3 Type:
NV4500 5-speed Manual (Heavy Duty)
Transmission 3 Driveline:
Available in 4WD configurations (typically with V8 engines)
Transmission Fluid Spec 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Wheelbase Options:
134.5 inches (Regular Cab), 140.5 inches (Club Cab), 160.5 inches (Crew Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 8,700 lbs (properly equipped)
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 2,600 lbs (properly equipped)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
Antilock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (Electronic Traction Control)
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all positions
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Standard
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
7,500 - 10,000 miles (or 6-12 months) with synthetic oil
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
3,000 - 5,000 miles (or 3-6 months) with conventional oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (if platinum/iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (if platinum/iridium)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SP, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine and temperature range)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (MS-9769)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) or specific Mopar power steering fluid
Common Issues Powertrain:
Lifter tick (HEMI), cam position sensor failures, transmission solenoid issues (42RLE), rear main seal leaks.
Common Issues Chassis:
Ball joint wear, front end suspension component wear (bushings, tie rods), steering gearbox leaks.
Common Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures, door lock actuator failures, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) issues.
Common Issues Body:
Rust on wheel wells and rockers, tailgate handle corrosion, interior trim rattles.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long and storied history in the pickup truck market, dating back to the 1930s. The Ram nameplate itself became a distinct brand within Dodge in 1993.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2004 model year falls within the third generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008), which introduced a significant redesign with a more aggressive, muscular styling, improved interior comfort, and the introduction of the powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan
Sales Position 2004:
Consistently a top-selling full-size pickup truck in North America, competing fiercely with Ford and Chevrolet.