Vehicle Segment:
Full-size pickup truck.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota T100.
Value Proposition:
The 1995 Dodge Ram was known for its distinctive styling, robust chassis, and powerful engine options, positioning it as a strong contender in the competitive full-size truck market.
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive, bold styling with a prominent 'crosshair' grille and a substantial front-end presence.
Powertrain Options:
V6 and V8 gasoline engines, and the legendary Magnum V8 series.
Ride Quality:
Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation Ram offered a significantly improved and more comfortable ride thanks to its redesigned front suspension.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starter system, charging system.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case (4WD), drive shafts, axles, differentials, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, power assist, parking brake), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, gauges, horn, wipers, washers, power accessories (windows, locks), wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code explanations (OBD-I).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Component Replacement:
Detailed procedures for replacing parts such as alternators, starters, radiators, fuel pumps, brake pads, clutch assemblies, etc.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, and other critical technical data.
Depth Level:
Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and component overhauls.
Diagnostic Focus:
Comprehensive diagnostic information, including wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Engine Code 1:
5.2L (318) Magnum V8
Displacement 1:
5.2 liters (318 cubic inches)
Configuration 1:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V8
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4,000 rpm (Varies slightly by application)
Torque 1:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (Varies slightly by application)
Engine Code 2:
5.9L (360) Magnum V8
Displacement 2:
5.9 liters (360 cubic inches)
Configuration 2:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V8
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 245 hp @ 4,000 rpm (Varies slightly by application)
Torque 2:
Approx. 325 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (Varies slightly by application)
Engine Code 3:
3.9L (237) Magnum V6
Displacement 3:
3.9 liters (237 cubic inches)
Configuration 3:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V6
Horsepower 3:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Torque 3:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not extensively tested or rated by modern NHTSA standards for this era. Expected to be fair for its time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on rear wheels, or 4-wheel ABS on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for exact specifications).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as specified for manual transmissions.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (or as per manual).
Engine Oil Viscosity 5.2L:
SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 (refer to manual based on temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity 5.2L:
Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar Specification) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:
Approx. 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for fill.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets, particularly on the 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum engines, are a common concern, leading to coolant or vacuum leaks.
Transmission Overheating:
Automatic transmissions can be prone to overheating, especially under heavy load or towing, necessitating proper cooling system maintenance and potentially auxiliary coolers.
Radiator Support Corrosion:
The radiator support structure can be susceptible to rust and corrosion, particularly in areas with road salt.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Rear main crankshaft seal leaks can occur over time.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate consistently representing strength and utility.
Second Gen Introduction:
The 1994 redesign marked the beginning of the second generation, introducing significantly updated styling and engineering over the previous generation.
Key Redesign Elements:
The distinctive 'big rig' styling, coil-spring front suspension (replacing torsion bars), and improved interior comfort were hallmarks of this generation.
Manufacturing Plants:
Primary manufacturing locations included Warren, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri.