Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance departments
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical information required for professional and accurate servicing of the 2004 Dodge Ram, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Manual Scope:
Covers all models and engines produced for the 2004 model year, offering a complete resource.
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline engines
Transmission Coverage:
All transmissions (manual and automatic)
Chassis Coverage:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Body Coverage:
Exterior, interior, doors, windows, seats, HVAC
Electrical Coverage:
Engine control, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams
Model Variant Coverage:
All trim levels and body styles (e.g., 1500, 2500, 3500, Regular Cab, Quad Cab, Mega Cab)
Estimated Pages:
1500-2500 (typical for complete factory service manuals)
Type:
Complete Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components (driveshafts, axles, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear brakes, parking brake, ABS), wheels and tires
Body And Interior:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, power accessories (windows, locks)
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, warning indicators, infotainment system, power distribution, wiring diagrams for all systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, lubrication services
Repair:
Component removal and installation, diagnostics and troubleshooting, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, identification of common faults
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text is highly probable, making navigation efficient)
Image Quality:
High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 3.7L Magnum V6 (availability may vary by model and trim)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
4.7L V8 Torque:
305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
4.7L Engine Code:
P (VIN 2nd digit typically)
5.7L Hemi Engine Code:
D (VIN 2nd digit typically)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE, 48RE depending on engine/model)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual (e.g., NV3500 for lighter duty models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions, consult manual for specific part number like Mopar ATF+4)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD, full-time 4WD, or 2WD configurations available
Wheelbase Options:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 131.1" for Regular Cab SWB, 140.5" for Quad Cab SWB, 160.5" for Long Bed)
Overall Length Options:
Varies by cab and bed configuration
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration (approx. 4,500-6,000+ lbs)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
5 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 stars (for 2004 Ram 1500)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side curtain airbags may be optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), premium sound system options
Navigation:
Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were available, not typically integrated from factory in base trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Trailer Towing Features:
Integrated trailer brake controller wiring provisions, tow hooks, trailer towing packages available
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions, consult manual for severe conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation based on transmission type and usage)
Engine Oil Type:
5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check owner's manual for specific recommendation based on engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Typical Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, wheel bearings, exhaust components, brake pads/rotors
Engine Specific Issues 4.7L:
Lifter tick, spark plug ejection (especially with aftermarket plugs not installed to spec), oil sludge if maintenance is neglected
Transmission Specific Issues:
Torque converter shudder, worn clutch packs in automatic transmissions if fluid is not maintained
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate being a key part of that heritage since its introduction in 1981.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2004 model year belongs to the third generation of the Dodge Ram (2002-2008), characterized by a significant redesign including a more aggressive styling, larger interior, and improved chassis.
Major Updates 2004:
Introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine as an option for the Ram 1500, replacing the older 5.9L Magnum V8 in some configurations. The Quad Cab configuration became more prominent.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, and also Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Mexico.
Class Awards General:
While specific awards for the 2004 model year are numerous, the Ram line consistently received recognition for its bold styling and robust capability.
Konsumen Reports Rating General:
Consumer Reports typically provided average to above-average ratings for Dodge Ram trucks in terms of overall reliability during this generation, with some noted exceptions depending on engine and transmission.
