Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing and hauling capability, legendary durability
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair information enabling cost-effective ownership and accurate servicing
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, powertrain control module (PCM)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions (NV3500, NV4500, 47RH, 48RE), transfer case (NV231, NV241), drivelines, axles (Dana 44, Dana 60), differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (independent front suspension on 1500, solid front axle on 2500/3500), steering gear, power steering system, shocks, springs, bushings
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum, disc/disc), ABS system, parking brake
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, body control modules (BCM), fuses, relays, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, fuel tank, exhaust system routing, body hardware
Comfort Convenience:
HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, audio systems
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine repair, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for removing and installing all major and minor components
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for various components and assemblies
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics)
Base Engine 1500:
3.9L Magnum V6
Mid Engine 1500 2500:
5.2L Magnum V8 (318 ci)
High Output Engine 1500 2500:
5.9L Magnum V8 (360 ci)
Heavy Duty Engine 2500 3500:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (ISB)
3.9L V6 (Approx.):
Horsepower: 175 hp, Torque: 235 lb-ft
5.2L V8 (Approx.):
Horsepower: 230 hp, Torque: 330 lb-ft
5.9L V8 (Approx.):
Horsepower: 245-250 hp, Torque: 345-350 lb-ft
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (Approx.):
Horsepower: 215-235 hp, Torque: 420-460 lb-ft
Gasoline Engines:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Engine:
Inline Injection Pump (PT Fuel System on later models)
Manual Transmission Options:
Getrag NV3500 (5-speed), NV4500 (5-speed heavy-duty)
Automatic Transmission Options:
42RE (4-speed auto, RWD/4WD), 47RH (4-speed auto, 4WD), 48RE (4-speed auto, 4WD - introduced later)
Transfer Case Options:
NV231 (part-time 4WD), NV241DHD (heavy-duty part-time 4WD)
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9229)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Refer to manual for specific NV3500/NV4500 fluid types (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil)
Wheelbase Options:
134.0" (Standard Cab, Short Bed), 145.1" (Club Cab, Short Bed), 161.0" (Standard Cab, Long Bed), 166.1" (Club Cab, Long Bed)
Overall Length Approx:
215.0" - 255.0" (depending on configuration)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed)
Curb Weight Range:
4,500 lbs - 7,000+ lbs (depending on configuration and engine)
Gvw Range:
6,500 lbs (1500) - 9,500 lbs (3500)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 1500 2Wd:
N/A (vehicles of this era often did not have standardized rollover ratings)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Rating:
Varies by model year and specific test, generally considered average for the era
ABS:
Available on most models, standard on some later models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most models from 1998 onwards)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts (later models may have three-point rear)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, optional premium sound systems
Display:
Basic dashboard displays, no central color infotainment screens
Cruise Control:
Standard on most higher trims
Traction Control:
Limited availability or basic systems depending on model year and trim
Auxiliary Inputs:
Typically none, later models might have a 12V power outlet
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions - consult manual)
Oil Change Interval Cummins:
Every 7,500-15,000 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions - consult manual)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type - consult manual)
Engine Oil Gasoline:
API certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Cummins:
API CG-4 or CH-4 rated SAE 15W-40 diesel engine oil (e.g., Mobil Delvac, Shell Rotella)
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) type coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Gasoline Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter adapter leaks, distributor drive gear wear, cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8s)
Common Cummins Engine Issues:
VP44 injection pump failure (needs lift pump upgrades), injector issues, grid heater malfunctions, exhaust manifold leaks
Common Transmission Issues:
NV3500 clutch issues, 47RH/48RE governor pressure issues, solenoid pack failures, torque converter shudder
Common Suspension Steering Issues:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, steering box looseness, worn control arm bushings, sway bar links
Common Electrical Issues:
Instrument cluster failures, body control module (BCM) issues, rear trailer wiring harness problems, starter motor issues
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon.
Second Gen Ram Introduction:
The second generation RAM (1994-2001) was a significant redesign, introducing the distinctive 'big rig' styling and Magnum engines.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 1998 model year marked a significant refresh for the second generation, with updated interior styling, improved powertrains (including the 5.9L Cummins power increase), and revised suspension.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
Production Period:
1994-2001 (Second Generation); manual covers 1998-2001 specifically
Cummins Engine Reputation:
The 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel is renowned for its durability and longevity, often cited as one of the best diesel engines of its era.
Dodge Ram Design:
The second-generation RAM's aggressive styling was widely praised and became an iconic design cue.
Jdp Power Initial Quality:
Varies by year and model, often mid-pack for the segment
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally average to below average for some years, with specific noted issues (e.g., electrical, fuel system on Cummins)
