🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Chassis Cab

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991

Chassis Code:

Fourth Generation Dodge Ram (Ramcharger/Trailduster chassis)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Light-duty commercial vehicles, fleet services, heavy-duty recreational users

Competitors:

Ford F-Series Chassis Cab, Chevrolet C/K Chassis Cab

Vehicle Purpose:

Designed for upfitting with specialized bodies (e.g., utility, dump, service, tow trucks)

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential resource for owners, mechanics, and fleet managers to maintain and repair these robust chassis cabs

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Breadth:

Comprehensive factory service and repair information

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (typical for this era's FSMs)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (overhaul, service, diagnosis), transfer case (4WD models)

Drivetrain Systems:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, U-joints, differentials

Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering, steering gear), brake system (front discs, rear drums, power assist, ABS if equipped), parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instruments, gauges, horn, wipers, washers, power accessories, fuse/relay protection, wiring diagrams

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair

Body Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing

Technical Depth:

Full mechanical and electrical diagnostics, component-level repair, complete teardown and reassembly instructions

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text (typical for well-scanned FSMs)

Printable:

Printable pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

5.2L (318 ci) V8 Magnum, 5.9L (360 ci) V8 Magnum, 5.9L (360 ci) Diesel (Cummins Turbo Diesel likely available on some configurations)

5.2L V8 Torque Range:

Approx. 250-270 lb-ft

5.9L V8 Torque Range:

Approx. 280-300 lb-ft

5.9L Diesel Torque Range:

Approx. 365-400 lb-ft (Cummins)

Fuel Delivery Gasoline:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Delivery Diesel:

Direct injection (Cummins)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol (Chrysler's Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., New Process NP4500)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Chrysler A727, A518)

Transfer Case:

Manual or electronic shift 4WD transfer case (if equipped)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity per manual, e.g., 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Variable, dependent on upfitted body length (e.g., 136", 155")

Gvwr Range:

Typical GVWRs would range from 8,500 lbs to 10,000+ lbs depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this era are not as comprehensive as modern standards; manual focuses on structural integrity and system function.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts (front), lap belts (center/rear if applicable)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player or premium sound system

ABS Availability:

Optional rear-wheel ABS available on some models

Connectivity Features:

None (standard features of the era, no integrated Bluetooth or USB)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (typical for this era, consult manual for specifics)

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (diesel engines typically have longer intervals)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (automatic and manual, consult manual)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Engine Oil Type Gasoline:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity and quantity)

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

API CF-2 or CG-4, SAE 15W-40 (heavy-duty diesel oil, consult manual)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake components (pads, rotors, drums), exhaust system corrosion, radiator leaks

Engine Considerations Gasoline:

Lifter noise (if not properly maintained), occasional camshaft wear

Engine Considerations Diesel:

Fuel injection pump (VE or P7100 depending on specific Cummins) wear, turbocharger issues (if applicable), injector problems

Transmission Considerations:

Clutch wear (manual), torque converter issues (automatic), worn synchronizers (manual)

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of robust trucks, particularly the Ram line, known for durability and utility.

Fourth Gen Ram:

This generation (1981-1993) represented a significant redesign for the Ram line, moving towards a more aerodynamic and squared-off styling compared to its predecessors. The chassis cab variant was introduced to better serve commercial and fleet needs.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While not specifically the chassis cab, the Ram pickup line from this generation often received positive reviews for its styling and capability, contributing to Dodge's truck reputation.