Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, fleet managers.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Manual Advantage:
Inexpensive alternative to dealership service, empowers owners with knowledge, promotes longevity of the vehicle.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, powerful engine options (especially HEMI and Cummins), towing and hauling capability, relatively simple mechanicals for its class.
Primary Focus:
Complete Service and Repair
Scope:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 2000+
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchability implied)
Engine:
3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8, 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (mention if applicable)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE), 5-Speed Automatic (5-45RFE/NAG1), 6-Speed Manual (NV5600 for diesel)
Drivetrain:
2WD, 4WD (including transfer case operation and repair)
Suspension:
Front Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Rear Solid Axle, Leaf Springs
Brakes:
Front Disc (Vented), Rear Disc, ABS System, Parking Brake
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion (4x2), Power Steering Gearbox (4x4)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Ignition System, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Bumpers
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Climate Control Systems
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter, Injectors, Fuel Tank, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fans
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), System Self-Tests, Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams for troubleshooting
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major components.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, alignment procedures, wear limits, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and skilled DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes guidance on using scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment.
Engine 1:
3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC)
Engine 1 Hp:
215 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
236 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)
Engine 2 Hp:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3:
5.7L HEMI V8 (OHV)
Engine 3 Hp:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 4:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (24-valve)
Engine 4 Hp:
305 hp @ 2800 rpm (approx.)
Engine 4 Torque:
555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm (approx.)
Multi Displacement System:
Standard on 5.7L HEMI (MDS) to improve fuel economy.
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) for gasoline engines; Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for Cummins diesel.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel Fuel
Transmission Standard Gas:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) - common on 3.7L and 4.7L
Transmission Optional Gas:
5-Speed Automatic (5-45RFE/NAG1) - common on 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI
Transmission Optional Diesel:
6-Speed Manual (NV5600) - for diesel models
Overdrive Gears:
Provided in automatic transmissions for improved fuel efficiency and quieter highway cruising.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6.3 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Wheelbase:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., approx. 140.5" for Quad Cab 6.3' bed, approx. 160.5" for Quad Cab 8' bed).
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,700 - 6,000+ lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Ranges from approx. 6,000 lbs to over 9,000 lbs depending on configuration and axle rating.
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 10,000+ lbs (when properly equipped with appropriate engine, axle, and tow package).
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Generally Good (4-5 stars depending on year and specific test).
NHTSA Side Impact:
Generally Good (4-5 stars depending on year and specific test).
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable to Good.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Available Electronic Traction Control (ETC).
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) became more common in later years of this generation, check specific vehicle.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags and side airbags were optional or standard on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine: 3.7L/4.7L (approx. 100,000 miles with platinum plugs), 5.7L HEMI (approx. 100,000 miles with specific HEMI plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage. Consult manual for fluid type and capacity.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on engine and temperature). Always verify with manual or oil cap. API certified.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (typically orange or pink).
Power Steering Fluid:
Power steering fluid (refer to manual for specific type, often ATF+4 or equivalent).
Common Issues Gasoline:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 4.7L), fuel pump issues, intermittent electronic problems, rust on brake lines and body panels.
Common Issues Diesel:
Injector pump issues (VP44 on earlier models, common rail on later), grid heater failure, potential for injector failure. Rust.
Transmission Issues:
Overdrive clutch failure on 42RLE, solenoid issues on 5-45RFE.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, with the Ram nameplate dating back to 1981.
Third Gen Debut:
The third generation of the Ram pickup (DB series) debuted for the 2002 model year, marking a significant redesign with a bold, aggressive styling and improved interior.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
A minor refresh occurred for the 2006 model year, including updated styling cues and feature availability.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan.
Production Period:
2002-2008 (with 2005-2006 being the focus of this manual).