Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, rebuild procedures, diagnosis, timing systems, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, emission control systems.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, ECM/PCM operation, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service, clutch, driveshafts, propeller shafts, U-joints.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 8-speed TorqueFlite 845RE, 6-speed 68RFE for HD models) service, diagnosis, fluid changes, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, differentials, transfer case (4WD models), CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front suspension (e.g., independent coil spring front suspension for 1500, solid front axle for 2500/3500), rear suspension (multi-leaf spring), shock absorbers, struts, steering knuckles, control arms.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric assist), steering column, steering gear, tie rods, steering linkage, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, traction control, stability control, brake fluid, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, brake pads, parking brake system, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power distribution, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control modules.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, interior trim, seat removal, body repair procedures.
Chassis:
Frame construction, corrosion protection, underbody components.
Restraints:
Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, SRS module diagnosis and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
System diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, differential repair, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, component testing.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for Chrysler/Dodge specific special tools and equipment.
Depth Of Information:
Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including sensor data interpretation and module programming guidance.
Wheelbase 1500:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 140.5 inches for Quad Cab 6'4" box).
Wheelbase 2500 3500:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 149.1 inches for Crew Cab Long Box).
Overall Length:
Varies by configuration.
Overall Width:
Varies by configuration, typically around 79.4 inches (excluding mirrors).
Overall Height:
Varies by configuration.
Bed Length Options:
5'7" (Short Bed), 6'4" (Standard Bed), 8'0" (Long Bed) - model dependent.
Curb Weight 1500:
Approximately 4,700 - 5,500 lbs (Varies significantly by configuration).
Curb Weight 2500 3500:
Approximately 6,000 - 8,000+ lbs (Varies significantly by configuration and powertrain).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Ranges from approx. 6,800 lbs (1500) to over 10,000 lbs (3500 SRW/DRW).
Max Towing Capacity 1500:
Up to approx. 10,650 lbs (with 5.7L V8 and proper configuration).
Max Towing Capacity 2500:
Up to approx. 18,350 lbs (with 6.4L V8).
Max Towing Capacity 3500:
Up to approx. 29,600 lbs (with 6.7L Cummins Diesel, DRW, and proper configuration).
Max Payload Capacity 1500:
Up to approx. 1,930 lbs.
Max Payload Capacity 2500:
Up to approx. 4,000 lbs.
Max Payload Capacity 3500:
Up to approx. 6,600+ lbs (DRW models).
Infotainment System:
Uconnect touchscreen system (available in various sizes, e.g., 5-inch, 8.4-inch) with AM/FM/SiriusXM, CD/DVD player, USB, SD card, and auxiliary inputs.
Navigation:
Available factory navigation system.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors and rearview camera.
Trailer Tow Options:
Integrated trailer brake controller (available on HD models), tow mirrors, trailer tow mirrors with power adjust/heat/turn signals.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Remote Start:
Available remote start system.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil, or as per Oil Change Indicator system. Severe service may require shorter intervals (e.g., 5,000-7,500 miles).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months with appropriate diesel-rated oil. Heavy towing may require shorter intervals.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 30,000-45,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on air quality and usage.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Inspect fluid condition regularly. Change every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type. Heavy-duty applications may require more frequent changes.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Check fluid level periodically. Typically recommended for replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (or 5 years), then every 60,000 miles (or 5 years thereafter).
Spark Plugs Gas:
3.6L Pentastar V6: Typically 100,000 miles. 5.7L HEMI V8: Typically 100,000 miles (with specific iridium-tipped plugs).
Engine Oil 3.6L V6:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic. API SN certified. Capacity: 6 quarts.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi V8:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic. API SN certified. Capacity: 7 quarts.
Engine Oil 6.4L Hemi V8:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic. API SN certified. Capacity: 7 quarts.
Engine Oil 6.7L Cummins Diesel:
SAE 15W-40 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API CK-4 rated). Capacity: 12 quarts.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue. Chrysler specification MS-9769. Capacity varies by model (approx. 13-23 quarts).
Transmission Fluid 845Re:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602). Capacity: Approx. 5.6 quarts for a dry fill, much less for a fluid change only.
Transmission Fluid 68Rfe:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602). Capacity: Approx. 6.5 quarts for a fluid change.
Transmission Fluid Cummins As69Rc:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602). Capacity: Approx. 8.5 quarts for a fluid change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 SAE J1703.
Common Issues Pentastar V6:
PCV valve issues causing rough idle or oil consumption (often addressed with updated parts), occasional exhaust manifold leaks.
Common Issues Hemi V8:
Potential for lifter noise ('Hemi tick') if oil changes are neglected or if oil pressure issues arise. Fuel pump issues can occur.
Common Issues Cummins Diesel:
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration issues if not driven regularly or if sensors fail. EGR valve problems can occur. Fuel injector issues are less common but possible.
Common Issues Transmission 845Re:
Occasional hard shifts or delayed engagement can sometimes be resolved with software updates or a transmission fluid service.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends can occur on some models, especially those used for heavy work or off-road. Ram 1500 coil spring rear suspension can lead to squat under load without proper trailer brakes or payload management.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate dating back to 1981.
Fourth Generation Ram 1500 2500 3500:
The 2014 models are part of the fourth generation (2009-2018), which saw significant updates in 2013, including new powertrains, chassis improvements, and a redesigned exterior and interior.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Saltillo Truck Plant (Mexico) and Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan, USA).
Ram Brand Separation:
In 2009, Chrysler separated the Ram truck line into its own brand, Ram Trucks, while still under the Chrysler Group umbrella.