Segment:
Full-size, light-duty pickup truck
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a capable, versatile pickup truck for work and personal use.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Strengths:
Robust build, available powerful V8 engines, significant towing and hauling capabilities, spacious interior (depending on cab configuration)
Covered Sections:
Features, controls, maintenance schedules, service, do-it-yourself activities, towing, safety
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a full-size truck owner's manual)
Format:
Electronic (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain operation and basic maintenance
Chassis:
Brakes, steering, suspension, wheels, and tires
Electrical:
Lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, basic electrical system understanding
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, audio system, interior controls, power seats, mirrors, windows
Safety And Security:
Airbags, seatbelts, anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control (if equipped), security system
Operation:
Starting and operating the vehicle, gear selection, parking brake usage
Maintenance:
Fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, basic cleaning
Do It Yourself:
Minor maintenance tasks, such as checking and topping off fluids, changing engine air filter (depending on accessibility)
Towing:
Towing capacity, trailer brake controller operation (if equipped), trailer wiring information
Depth:
Consumer-level information for everyday use, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle functions. Not a full service or repair manual.
Engine Option 1:
4.7L V8 (255 hp @ 5600 rpm, 334 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm)
Engine Option 2:
5.7L HEMI V8 (385 hp @ 5600 rpm, 407 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)
Engine Option 3:
3.7L V6 (215 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm) - less common for 'Gas' designation focus
Compression Ratio 4.7L:
9.1:1
Compression Ratio 5.7L:
10.3:1
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM)
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed automatic (42RLE for 4.7L V8, 3.7L V6)
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed automatic (545RFE for 5.7L HEMI V8)
Overdrive:
Yes, all automatic transmissions feature overdrive gearing for fuel efficiency.
Fluid Specification:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification)
Wheelbase Options:
Various depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 130.5", 140.5", 160.5")
Length Options:
Varies (e.g., 220.0" to 247.2")
Width Options:
Varies (e.g., 79.1")
Height Options:
Varies (e.g., 73.0" to 77.5")
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, typically 4,700 - 5,500 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically 6,000 - 8,500 lbs
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to approximately 10,000 lbs (properly equipped, depends on configuration)
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to approximately 1,800 - 2,000 lbs (properly equipped, depends on configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Generally 4 out of 5 stars (may vary slightly by specific configuration)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
Generally 4 or 5 out of 5 stars (may vary slightly by specific configuration)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available (Electronic Stability Control - ESC often integrated)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Integrated with ABS
Airbags:
Front airbags, available side curtain airbags (depending on cab and trim)
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
Audio System:
Various options including AM/FM, CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Available factory-installed navigation system on higher trims.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking sensors.
Camera:
Available rearview camera on select models.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack on most models.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free communication system (Uconnect).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 6 months, or based on oil life monitoring system.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (more frequently in dusty conditions).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect annually, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine. 5.7L HEMI typically uses longer-life plugs (e.g., 100,000 miles), 4.7L may have shorter intervals.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-20 (for most gasoline engines, consult manual for specific).
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze (Chrysler MS-9769 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4
Common Complaints:
Potential for exhaust manifold leaks (especially on 5.7L HEMI), catalytic converter issues, interior trim rattles, occasional transmission shift quality issues, rust on body panels over time.
Importance Of Manual:
Adhering to the schedules and recommendations in this manual is crucial for longevity and preventing costly repairs.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Fourth Generation Introduction:
The fourth generation Ram (DS/DJ) was introduced for the 2009 model year, featuring a complete redesign from the previous generation.
Design Philosophy:
This generation aimed to modernize the Ram's appearance and improve aerodynamics while maintaining its truck credentials.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan
