Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan
Manual Advantage:
Factory-level accuracy and detail for all repair and maintenance procedures, essential for accurate servicing and long-term reliability.
Engine:
All gasoline engines, including 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, and 5.7L HEMI V8
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500), 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE), 5-Speed Automatic (545RFE)
Drivetrain:
Rear Axle, Driveshaft, Universal Joints
Suspension:
Front Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Rear Leaf Springs
Steering:
Power Steering system, Steering Gearbox
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (standard on 1500), ABS System
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim
Restraints:
Airbag System, Seat Belts
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II Procedures, Scan Tool Usage
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Repair/Replacement, Transmission Rebuild/Replacement, Brake Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, wiring diagrams for fault finding
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics
Base Engine Option:
3.7L Magnum V6 (e.g., VIN code 'X')
Popular Engine Option:
4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., VIN code 'N')
Performance Engine Option:
5.7L HEMI V8 (e.g., VIN code 'D')
3.7L V6 Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.7L V6 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (Higher octane recommended for 5.7L HEMI for optimal performance)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500) - typically on base models
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (545RFE) - typically paired with 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI
Fluid Type Manual:
Refer to manual for specific fluid viscosity (e.g., Manual Transmission Fluid - SAE 75W-90 GL-4)
Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Capacity 42Rle:
Approximately 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) with filter change
Capacity 545Rfe:
Approximately 7.8 quarts (7.4 liters) with filter change
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 131.3" for Regular Cab Short Bed)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 219.1" for Regular Cab Short Bed)
Overall Width:
Approximately 79.1 inches
Overall Height:
Approximately 74.6 inches
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically starting around 4,800 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Typically around 6,000-7,000 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Varies significantly by engine, axle ratio, and configuration (up to ~9,000 lbs for properly equipped models)
Payload Capacity:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 1,000-2,000 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Four stars (for some configurations)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, lower and upper anchorages for child seats
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio compatibility.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
3.7L/4.7L V8: 100,000 miles (Iridium); 5.7L HEMI: 100,000 miles (Long-life NGK).
Transmission Fluid:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on use (check manual for specific intervals and towing conditions).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions), SAE 5W-30 (for severe service or hot climates) - API certified
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Prediluted 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (Color: Pink)
Nod Rattles:
Commonly reported 'death wobble' or steering shimmy, often related to worn steering/suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Transmission Issues:
Some early 4.7L engines and 42RLE transmissions could experience internal wear or solenoid issues, especially with high mileage or neglect.
Hemi Reliance:
The 5.7L HEMI can be sensitive to oil changes; infrequent changes or improper oil can lead to valve train noise (lifter tick).
Rust:
Body rust, particularly on cab corners, rocker panels, and rear wheel wells, is a common concern in rust-belt regions.
Generation Introduction:
The third generation Ram (DB) debuted for the 2002 model year, with the 1500 series receiving significant updates and revisions through its lifecycle.
2006 Updates:
The 2006 model year saw the introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 as a more widely available option across more trims, along with updated interior features and minor styling tweaks.
Assembly Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
