Category:
Full-size pickup truck
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra (later years)
Design Philosophy:
Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing and hauling capability, traditional body-on-frame design
Target Audience:
Work truck users, families, those needing substantial towing and hauling capacity, off-road enthusiasts (depending on configuration)
Covered Years:
1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format for sales)
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, component testing, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection (MPI), starting system, charging system, engine sensors, PCM diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, assembly, overhaul, clutch service, gearshift linkage
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnostic procedures, fluid service, hydraulic control, torque converter, overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, differential service, transfer case operation and repair, driveshafts, U-joints
Suspension:
Front suspension (ball joints, control arms, torsion bars), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or rear discs on some models), ABS system diagnostics, hydraulic components, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering column, alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis component service
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control operation and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, EVAP system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, use of scan tools (OBD-II for later models)
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing most major and minor components
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete overhaul instructions for engines, transmissions, differentials
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Base Engine:
3.9L Magnum V6 (often referred to as the 3.9L 238 V6)
Mid Engine:
5.2L Magnum V8 (often referred to as the 5.2L 318 V8)
High Performance Engine:
5.9L Magnum V8 (often referred to as the 5.9L 360 V8)
Diesel Engine:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (Heavy Duty models)
Horsepower 3.9L:
Approximately 175-180 hp
Torque 3.9L:
Approximately 225-230 lb-ft
Horsepower 5.2L:
Approximately 200-230 hp
Torque 5.2L:
Approximately 290-300 lb-ft
Horsepower 5.9L:
Approximately 230-245 hp
Torque 5.9L:
Approximately 330-360 lb-ft
Horsepower Cummins:
Approximately 180-215 hp (increasing with year)
Torque Cummins:
Approximately 420-470 lb-ft (increasing with year)
Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines, Rotary injection pump for Cummins diesel
Gasoline:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating as specified by Dodge)
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM radio, cassette players, CD players (optional on higher trims and later years). Basic speaker configurations.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims, typically electronically controlled.
Tow Haul Mode:
Available on some automatic transmissions to optimize shifting for towing.
OBD Ii:
Introduced in 1996, providing standardized diagnostic data access for emissions and engine management.
Oil Change Recommendation:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type, driving conditions, and manufacturer recommendations found within the manual.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Refer to manual for precise interval.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on service. Manual transmissions less frequent. Consult manual for specific type and interval.
Engine Oil Gasoline V6 V8:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature). Mopar brand recommended.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CH-4 or CI-4 rated diesel engine oil, SAE 15W-40 typically recommended. Mopar or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent like ATF-Type 7176). Later models may specify ATF+4.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Yellow) coolant often specified depending on the year and cooling system composition. Check manual for compatibility.
Common Problems Gasoline Engines:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, intake manifold gasket leaks, fuel injector issues, occasional oil filter adapter leaks.
Common Problems Transmissions:
Overdrive failure in automatic transmissions (especially 46RE/47RE), clutch wear in manuals, worn clutch pedal pivot points.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, sagging front torsion bars, steering box looseness.
Common Problems Electrical:
Headlight switch failures, dashboard warning light issues, power window motor failures, door lock actuator problems.
Common Problems Diesel:
Fuel lift pump issues, injector pump timing, grid heater failures, exhaust manifold cracks (similar to gas).
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Ram line evolving significantly over decades.
Second Gen Introduction:
Introduced for the 1994 model year, marking a significant redesign from the previous generation. Known for its bold 'Ram' grille design.
Key Updates:
Introduction of Quad Cab, updated interior features, more powerful Magnum engines, adoption of OBD-II diagnostics (1996 onwards), improvements to transmissions and ABS.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri.
