Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, heavy-duty capability, towing and hauling focus.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, powerful engine options, impressive towing capacity, available four-wheel drive, distinct styling.
Target Audience:
Dodge Ram owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Benefits:
Empowers DIY repairs, reduces maintenance costs, improves vehicle longevity, facilitates accurate diagnostics.
Years Covered:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Models Covered:
Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500
Estimated Page Count:
3000+
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system, fuel system
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, instruments, body control modules, infotainment, diagnostic connectors
Body:
Interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuild procedures
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, accessory installation guidelines
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages.
Print Recommendation:
Suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.
Binding Recommendation:
Digital format offers easy access; for printed versions, consider a durable comb or spiral binding for lay-flat usability.
Paper Recommendation:
For printed copies, heavy-duty or glossy paper is recommended for durability in a workshop environment.
Engine Family:
Magnum V8, Magnum V10, Cummins Turbo Diesel
3.9L V6 (Naturally Aspirated):
175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Early models)
5.2L V8 Magnum (Naturally Aspirated):
230 hp @ 4800 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L V8 Magnum (Naturally Aspirated):
245 hp @ 4000 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
8.0L V10 Magnum (Naturally Aspirated):
305 hp @ 4000 rpm, 450 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (I6):
215-235 hp @ 2700-2900 rpm, 420-460 lb-ft @ 1600-1700 rpm (depending on year and specific variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Rotary injection pump (VP44) or Common Rail Injection (CRI) for diesel engines.
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) for gasoline; Glow plug system for diesel.
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan.
Transmission Types:
4-speed automatic (42RE, 44RE, 47RE, 48RE), 5-speed manual (NV3500, NV4500)
Optional Transmissions:
6-speed manual (NV5600 for heavy-duty models) available in later years.
Overdrive:
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) is the recommended fluid for most automatic transmissions, superseding earlier ATF+3 specifications. Manual transmissions typically use GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil.
Wheelbase Options:
Standard (approx. 134.7 inches), Long Wheelbase (approx. 154.7 inches for 2500/3500), Crew Cab (approx. 140.5 inches for later models).
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Crew Cab (later models).
Bed Lengths:
6.3 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwrs:
Varies by model (e.g., 1500: 6000-7000 lbs, 2500: 7000-8800 lbs, 3500: 9000+ lbs).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4500-7000 lbs depending on configuration.
NHTSA Ratings:
Variable depending on year and configuration. Consult individual year's NHTSA data for specific ratings.
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard ABS on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available on some models/trims, especially with 4WD.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags were not standard and less common in this generation.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, some with cassette tape functionality. Higher trims offered premium Infinity sound systems.
Navigation:
Factory navigation systems were not widely available or common in this generation.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Available as an option on some later models.
Auxiliary Inputs:
No standard auxiliary audio input (3.5mm jack) or USB ports in this generation. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil viscosity).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for Cummins diesel engines, but can vary significantly based on oil quality and operating conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmissions: 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmissions: 30,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Gasoline Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 for most gasoline engines (check owner's manual for specific engine and climate recommendations).
Engine Oil Diesel Viscosity:
15W-40 for Cummins Turbo Diesel engines (API CI-4 or newer recommended).
Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar P/N 05010885AA (Orange).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problem 1:
Death wobble (front-end shimmy) in 4WD models, often related to worn steering and suspension components (track bar, ball joints, tie rods).
Common Problem 2:
Fuel lift pump failure in 1998.5-2002 5.9L Cummins (VP44 injection pump). Location of lift pump on the frame rail makes it susceptible to cooling issues and failure.
Common Problem 3:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on V8 gasoline engines, leading to ticking noises and loss of power.
Common Problem 4:
Transmission cooling issues, especially for heavy towing, may require aftermarket cooler upgrades.
Common Problem 5:
Interior trim quality and durability can be a concern, with common wear on seats, door panels, and the dashboard.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon.
Third Generation Introduction:
The third generation of the Dodge Ram was introduced for the 1994 model year, with significant updates and platform changes leading into the 1999-2006 period.
Updates During Coverage Years:
Key updates include introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 in 2003, revised interior and exterior styling in 2002, and the addition of the Mega Cab body style.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan.
Truck Of The Year:
While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards varied by publication, the Dodge Ram consistently ranked high for its bold styling and capability in this era.
Towing Hauling Performance:
Highly regarded for its towing and hauling capabilities, especially with the V10 and Cummins diesel engines.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with EPA emissions standards for the respective model years.
