Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra
Truck Type:
Heavy-duty capability, Towing, Payload
Frame Construction:
Body-on-frame
Powertrain Options:
Robust V6 and V8 engine choices
Manual Benefit:
Dealer-level repair information for DIY or professional use
Engine:
All engine options (see engine_specs)
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmissions
Brakes:
Hydraulic, ABS, Parking Brake
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Distribution, Starting/Charging
Body:
Body panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning
Fuel:
Fuel tank, Lines, Pump, Injection System
Exhaust:
Exhaust system components, Catalytic Converter
Cooling:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses
Powertrain Control:
PCM/ECU diagnosis and repair
Safety Restraints:
Airbags, Seatbelts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul
Rebuilding:
Detailed engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics
Adjustment:
Component adjustments (e.g., brakes, clutch)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds
Engine Options:
4.7L Magnum V8, 5.9L Magnum V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (light-duty applications), 4.7L HO V8 (later models)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 235-240 hp
4.7L V8 Torque:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 245-250 hp
5.9L V8 Torque:
Approx. 330-335 lb-ft
5.9L Cummins Horsepower:
Approx. 235 hp
5.9L Cummins Torque:
Approx. 460 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Direct Injection for Cummins Diesel
5.9L Cummins Engine Code:
C
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Coolant
Transmission Options:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE, 44RE, 45RFE), 5-Speed Manual (NV3500, G360)
Heavy Duty Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (48RE)
Overdrive:
Available on automatic transmissions
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Crew Cab (4-door)
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft, 8.0 ft
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically 6,300 - 9,800 lbs (1500, 2500, 3500 models)
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Good (for relevant models/configurations)
ABS:
Standard on most models, 4-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum configurations
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point or 3-point rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (refer to manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual based on engine type (e.g., 100,000 miles for some V8s)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and temperature range - refer to manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine (e.g., 7 quarts for 4.7L V8, 7.2 quarts for 5.9L V8)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Common Problems:
Potential for exhaust manifold leaks (cracked manifolds), transmission solenoid issues (45RFE), PCM failures, rust on body panels, brake wear.
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar MO-899 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57899)
Air Filter Example:
Mopar PA5703 or equivalent (e.g., Wix WA10047)
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Long history of durable and capable trucks dating back to the 1930s
Third Generation Ram:
This generation (DR) introduced a significant redesign with a more aggressive styling, improved interior, and enhanced powertrain options.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA
Generation Production:
1994-2001 (Second Generation), 2002-2008 (Third Generation - DR)