🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Truck AD100

Model Generation:

Third Generation (AD Series)

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, automotive repair shops, and experienced DIY enthusiasts working on 1989-1991 Dodge Ram Trucks.

Segment:

Full-size pickup truck.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information, enabling cost-effective maintenance and repair of a classic Dodge pickup.

Uniqueness:

Covers the entire AD100 generation for these specific years, offering a singular resource for a popular classic truck.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Estimated Page Count:

High page count, likely exceeding 1000 pages, common for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul and repair procedures for all gasoline engines used in the AD100 series during these years.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging systems, fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, sensor testing.

Transmission Manual:

Repair and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch system.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions, including hydraulic control systems and torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Rear axle repair, driveshaft maintenance, universal joints, propeller shaft.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system repair, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, repair, including master cylinder, brake boosters, front and rear disc/drum brake components, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, horn, fuses, relays.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, evaporative emission control system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, hangers.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood, tailgate, bumpers, chassis lubrication points.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common problems across all major systems.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components.

Replacement Procedures:

Instructions for replacing individual parts and sub-assemblies.

Adjustment Procedures:

Calibration and adjustment of various systems, such as ignition timing, valve lash (where applicable), and parking brake.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Charts:

Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-to-cause tables for troubleshooting.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive listing of all critical torque specifications for fasteners across all systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage guidelines for any specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text, allowing for quick keyword lookups.

File Size:

Likely a large file size due to the extensive technical content and potential for scanned images/diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1:

3.9L V6 Magnum (5.2L V8 Magnum introduced later in the generation, but manual likely covers early versions too)

Engine Options 2:

5.2L V8 Magnum

Engine Options 3:

5.9L V8 Magnum

Displacement 3 9L:

3.9 liters (239 cubic inches)

Displacement 5 2L:

5.2 liters (318 cubic inches)

Displacement 5 9L:

5.9 liters (360 cubic inches)

Horsepower 3 9L Approx:

125-135 hp (varies by year and tune)

Torque 3 9L Approx:

190-200 lb-ft (varies by year and tune)

Horsepower 5 2L Approx:

170-185 hp (varies by year and tune)

Torque 5 2L Approx:

260-290 lb-ft (varies by year and tune)

Horsepower 5 9L Approx:

190-200 hp (varies by year and tune)

Torque 5 9L Approx:

300-330 lb-ft (varies by year and tune)

Fuel Delivery Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Throttle Body Injection (TBI) depending on year and engine.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Option Diesel:

While not explicitly mentioned in the product title, some AD series trucks may have had a diesel option (e.g., 6.9L or 7.3L IDI Ford/Navistar diesel in some aftermarket or specialized configurations, though less common for factory Dodge). This manual primarily focuses on gasoline engines unless otherwise specified.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed manual (New Process NP435 or Getrag G360) common on some models, especially V8s.

Optional Transmission Type 1:

3-speed automatic (Chrysler A727 Torqueflite)

Optional Transmission Type 2:

4-speed automatic (Chrysler A518/46RH)

Overdrive Feature:

Overdrive gear available on 4-speed automatic transmissions (A518/46RH) for improved fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Standard (112.0 inches) and Long (125.2 inches) wheelbases common across various configurations.

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab).

Bed Length Options:

6.5 ft (standard bed) and 8 ft (long bed) options available.

Gvwr Range:

Varies significantly based on configuration, typically from 5,000 lbs to 7,500+ lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings Era:

Vehicle safety standards and testing were less stringent and comprehensive than modern vehicles. Specific ratings for this era are often unavailable or not directly comparable.

Antilock Brakes:

ABS typically available as an option on rear-wheel anti-lock (RWAL) systems, especially on later models or higher trims.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants (if equipped).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on most models.

Auxiliary Inputs:

No factory auxiliary inputs or Bluetooth connectivity; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, or as specified in the owner's manual for synthetic oils.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic transmissions: approximately every 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on usage. Manual transmissions: check and service as per manual's recommendations, typically much longer intervals.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or higher. Viscosity varies by temperature, common recommendations include 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Atf:

Chrysler ATF+2 or ATF+3 for A727 and A518 transmissions. Check manual for exact specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III compatible fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Engine Issue 1:

Premature camshaft wear (especially on early 3.9L V6 engines), often attributed to lubrication issues or material defects.

Common Engine Issue 2:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 engines) due to heat cycles and stress.

Common Transmission Issue 1:

Leaking transmission cooler lines or seals in automatic transmissions.

Common Chassis Issue 1:

Rust and corrosion, particularly on frame rails, rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells.

Common Electrical Issue 1:

Faulty ignition switch, dash illumination issues, and intermittent electrical connections.

Common Suspension Issue 1:

Worn ball joints and tie rod ends due to the truck's age and payload capacity.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram line evolving from earlier Dodge truck models, emphasizing durability and utility.

Ad Series Context:

The AD series represented a significant redesign for Dodge trucks, featuring a more aerodynamic and contemporary styling compared to its predecessors.

Third Generation Introduction:

Introduced for the 1972 model year, the AD series (often referred to as the 'D' and 'W' series, with AD100 being a specific payload/series designation) underwent styling updates and powertrain improvements throughout its lifespan, culminating in the 1989-1993 iteration.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primary assembly for these trucks occurred at Chrysler plants in the United States, notably Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Era:

While specific awards for the 1989-1991 AD100 are not widely publicized, the overall Dodge Ram line consistently received positive attention for its capability and value proposition in the pickup truck segment during this period.