Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Competitors 2004:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Design Philosophy:
Rugged, capable, emphasis on towing and hauling, comfortable interior for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with factory-accurate information to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving money and ensuring vehicle longevity.
Engine Management:
Engine systems, ignition control, fuel system, emissions control, exhaust system
Powertrain:
Transmission, transfer case, differential, driveline, clutch
Chassis:
Suspension, brakes, steering, frame, bumpers, tires, wheels
Electrical And Electronics:
Audio/video, chime/buzzer, electronic control modules (ECMs), instrument cluster, lamps, message systems, power systems, restraints, speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, navigation/telecommunication, wiring
Body And Comfort:
Body, heating & air conditioning
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed wiring schematics for all major electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting electrical faults.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures for all systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair instructions for components and systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all vehicle components and systems
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing virtually any component, from small sensors to major powertrain units.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed flowcharts for diagnosing drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues based on symptoms.
Printability:
Printable without restriction, allowing for physical copies of sections or the entire manual.
Binding:
Digital (PDF), user-printable. If printed, would typically be a comb-bound or spiral-bound format for ease of use in a workshop.
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format). If printed, high-quality, durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Options:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8
3.7L V6 Power:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4.7L V8 Power:
Approx. 235-245 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 305-315 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Power:
Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
Approx. 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Design:
Overhead Valve (OHV) for 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8; Overhead Valve (OHV) with HEMI design for 5.7L V8
Engine Identification:
Refer to VIN and engine block for specific code. Common codes: EKG (3.7L), NDM (4.7L), EHE (5.7L HEMI).
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (limited availability, typically on V6 and base V8 models)
Automatic Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE)
Transfer Case Options:
Part-time 4WD (NV244, NV243), Full-time 4WD (NV247)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., API GL-3 or GL-4)
Wheelbase Options:
131.3 inches (standard cab), 140.5 inches (extended cab), 160.5 inches (crew cab)
Overall Length Range:
Approx. 207.1 inches to 246.1 inches (depending on cab and bed configuration)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 8,800 lbs (with appropriate engine, axle, and towing package)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for models tested)
Brake System:
Front disc, rear drum (standard); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags not typically available in this generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts
Audio System Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional CD changer, optional Infinity audio system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, speed control system.
Trailer Towing Features:
Factory trailer brake controller pre-wiring, tow hooks, integrated trailer brake controller option on some models.
Gauge Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure. Includes warning lamps and driver information center (DIC).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles for severe service or 7,500 miles for normal service (check manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000-30,000 miles, replace as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles for standard plugs, 100,000 miles for long-life platinum/iridium plugs (depending on engine).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for V6/V8, and 5W-30 for HEMI. Always use API certified oil.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/50 Formula (Orange).
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, brake pads/rotors, exhaust system components (rust), power steering components, radiator.
Engine Specific Issues:
4.7L V8: Valve seat recession, oil sludge if not maintained, cracked cylinder heads (less common in this year range). 5.7L HEMI: MDS (Multi-Displacement System) issues if not properly serviced, potential piston slap on cold starts.
Transmission Specific Issues:
45RFE/48RE: Potential for solenoid issues, torque converter clutch wear, and cooler line leaks. Regular fluid and filter changes are crucial.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate being a cornerstone of their truck lineup since the early 1980s.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2004 Ram belongs to the third generation (2002-2008), which introduced a significantly redesigned exterior and interior, improved powertrains, and enhanced chassis dynamics compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Key assembly plants included Warren Truck Assembly in Michigan and Saltillo Truck Assembly in Mexico.
Kl Appraisal Award:
The Dodge Ram often received positive ratings from organizations like Kelley Blue Book for its value retention and overall appeal in the truck segment.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied by year and powertrain. Some models were praised for capability, while others faced criticism for reliability in certain areas.
