🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Model Line:

Ram Pickup

Covered Years:

2002, 2003, 2004

Platform Code:

DR (Third Generation Ram)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts

Competitors:

Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides authoritative, detailed information essential for proper maintenance and repair, saving time and money compared to professional service.

Vehicle Strengths:

Renowned for durability, powerful engine options, robust towing and hauling capabilities, and a comfortable ride for a full-size truck.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration

Vehicle Types Covered:

All configurations including 1500, 2500, 3500 models (Light Duty, Heavy Duty)

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) Equivalent / Comprehensive Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case (4x4 models)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), driveline (axles, driveshafts)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, electrical components, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, power accessories, body control module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics

Body:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system (HVAC), safety restraints (airbags)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, alignment procedures, and electrical circuit tracing

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site workshop use

Quality:

High-resolution scans with clear diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

4.7L Magnum V8 (PZEV option), 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (2500/3500 models)

Engine Code 4.7L:

EHA

Engine Code 5.7L:

HEMI

Engine Code 5.9L Diesel:

ISB

Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4,500 rpm

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5,000 rpm

Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Horsepower:

250-325 hp @ 2,900 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Torque:

475-555 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Injection Type Gas:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Injection Type Diesel:

High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR)

Fuel Type Gas:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Fuel Type Diesel:

Diesel fuel (ULSD required for later models, check specific year)

ECU:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed Automatic (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500, NV4500/G360 for diesel)

Transfer Case:

New Process (NV) 241 DHD (part-time 4WD), NV244 (full-time 4WD on some models)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up

Manual Features Diesel:

Heavy-duty design for diesel torque management

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (API GL-3/GL-4, check specific manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

131.3 in (Standard Cab), 145.1 in (Club Cab/Quad Cab), 160.5 in (Mega Cab - later availability)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 ft (standard), 8.0 ft (long bed)

Gvwr Range:

6,020 lbs (1500) to 12,000 lbs (3500)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,500 lbs to 7,000+ lbs depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Four Stars (2002)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Four Stars (2002)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for models equipped with optional side airbags)

ABS:

Standard on most models, integrated with brake system

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard, optional side curtain airbags on some trims

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette, premium Infinity sound system

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Trailer Tow Features:

Integrated trailer brake controller wiring, optional trailer mirrors

Power Outlets:

12V accessory power outlets

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type)

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Gasoline: Every 30,000 miles. Diesel: Check manual, often integrated with water separator.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (conventional coolant) or 100,000 miles/5 years (HOAT coolant)

Engine Oil Type Gas:

API SN/SP, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine and temperature range)

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 (check owner's manual for specific year and climate)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula (Orange/Pink HOAT)

Capacity Quarts:

5.0 quarts (with filter)

Capacity Quarts:

7.0 quarts (with filter)

Capacity Quarts:

10.5 quarts (with filter)

Common Wear Item:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings) due to truck's weight and usage.

Common Diesel Issue:

Injector issues, CP3 injection pump failure (though less common on early 3rd gen Cummins compared to later models), radiator cap leaks.

Common Gas Engine Issue:

Spark plug fouling on 4.7L, intake manifold gasket leaks on 5.7L HEMI (early versions).

Transmission Concern:

Torque converter shudder on 45RFE/48RE automatic transmissions (often related to fluid condition or electronics).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s.

Third Generation:

The 2002-2004 models represent the third generation of the Ram pickup (DR platform), known for its bold styling and improved amenities over its predecessor.

Key Changes 2002:

Introduction of the third generation, new chassis, updated interior and exterior styling, introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8.

Assembly Locations:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

Ram Pickup was MotorTrend's Truck of the Year for 2003.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by model year and powertrain; specific details would be in the manual's troubleshooting section.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 12,000+ lbs (for properly equipped 3500 models with diesel engine)

Payload Capacity:

Up to 3,000+ lbs (for properly equipped models)