Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners to perform a wide range of tasks, reducing reliance on dealerships and independent shops.
Diy Focus:
Explicitly designed to assist DIY mechanics with comprehensive, easy-to-follow procedures.
Geographical Coverage:
North America (primarily, reflects factory specifications)
Model Variants Covered:
All 1500, 2500, and 3500 models, including various cab configurations (Regular, Club, Mega Cab) and bed lengths.
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2,000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era, actual may vary)
Type:
Workshop Service / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic & manual), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials (front & rear).
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, power distribution, wiring diagrams, body electrical, comfort and entertainment systems.
Body And Frame:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, collision repair information.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including removal, installation, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, ABS diagnostics, SRS diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic procedures, and component testing methods.
Engine Option 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)
Engine Option 2:
5.7L HEMI Magnum V8 (345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm) - Introduced for 2003
Engine Option 3:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (250 hp @ 2900 rpm, 460 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm) - For 2500/3500 models
Engine Family Notes:
Includes pushrod V8 designs known for durability and torque, and the robust Cummins diesel.
Fuel Delivery Gas:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) on V8 engines.
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
High-pressure common rail direct injection (Cummins).
Engine Code 5 9L Cummins:
245
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE for V8 and diesel)
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed Manual (NV3500/NV4500, primarily on 1500 and some 2500 models)
Transfer Case Options:
Part-time 4WD (NV241DHD/NV241GHD), Full-time 4WD (NV244/NV271D)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 75W-90)
Wheelbase Options:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 135.0 in to 160.3 in)
Overall Length Options:
Varies (e.g., ~225 in to ~260 in)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,800 lbs to 6,500+ lbs (depending on configuration and engine)
Gvw Range:
6,500 lbs (1500) to 11,500 lbs (3500)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (depending on year/configuration, typically good)
IIHS Ratings:
Generally considered acceptable for the era, but side impact and rollover resistance were areas for improvement compared to later designs.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard on all models (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player options, premium Infinity sound system available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic digital odometer, trip computer, and information display.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity (era-appropriate).
Oil Change Interval:
3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (severe duty may require more frequent changes).
Engine Oil Type Gas:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
CI-4/SL or newer, SAE 15W-40 (or as per Cummins recommendation for specific operating temperatures)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769)
Common Issue 1:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods, track bar) due to truck's weight and intended use.
Common Issue 2:
Heater core leaks/clogs (especially on earlier models or with improper coolant maintenance).
Common Issue 3:
Torque converter shudder in automatic transmissions.
Common Issue 4:
Oil filter housing leaks (common on Magnum V8s).
Common Issue 5:
Cummins 5.9L: Injector line failures (though generally robust).
Oil Filter 4 7L 5 7L:
Mopar: MO-899, Fram: PH16, WIX: 51060
Oil Filter 5 9L Cummins:
Mopar: MO-535, Fram: PH10159, WIX: 51773
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of building robust and capable trucks, often associated with power and work capability.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2003 model year represents the third generation (2002-2008) of the Dodge Ram pickup, characterized by a bold, aggressive styling and significant mechanical updates including the introduction of the HEMI V8.
Key Advancements 2003:
Introduction of the 5.7L HEMI engine, increased towing and payload capacities, improved interior and exterior styling, introduction of the Mega Cab configuration.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan.
Model Reputation:
The third-generation Ram, particularly with the HEMI, was praised for its powerful engine options and rugged design, becoming a popular choice in the competitive pickup market.
Engine Awards:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 received accolades for its blend of power and relatively good fuel efficiency for its class at the time of its introduction.
