Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors 1994:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Silverado, GMC Sierra
Value Proposition:
The Dodge Ram (second generation) offered a bold 'big rig' styling, enhanced interior comfort, and robust powertrain options, making it a strong contender in the competitive full-size truck market.
Styling:
Distinctive aerodynamic 'cathedral grille' and upright cab design.
Interior:
Improved ergonomics, available bucket seats, and a quieter cabin compared to previous generations.
Powertrain:
Renowned Magnum V8 engines known for their torque and durability.
Engine Coverage:
5.2L V8 Magnum, 5.9L V8 Magnum, 3.9L V6 Magnum
Transmission Coverage:
4-speed Automatic (42RE, 46RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500)
Drivetrain Coverage:
2WD, 4WD
Body Chassis Coverage:
All body and chassis components
Electrical Coverage:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500+ pages (comprehensive service manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling
Fuel And Emissions:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, EVAP system, emissions controls
Transmission Mechanical:
Transmission disassembly, assembly, torque converter, internal components
Drivetrain:
Transfer case, differentials, axles, driveshafts, U-joints
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, gauges
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and operation
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, weatherstripping
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Component Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for repairing and rebuilding major components
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Schematic interpretation, wiring harness repair, component testing
Body Work And Collision Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, frame straightening guidelines
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes information for using OBD-I scan tools and interpreting sensor data.
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.9L (239 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
V6, Overhead Valves (OHV)
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Estimated Horsepower:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 1 Estimated Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.2L (318 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V8, Overhead Valves (OHV), Magnum
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Estimated Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 2 Estimated Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
5.9L (360 cu in)
Engine 3 Configuration:
V8, Overhead Valves (OHV), Magnum
Engine 3 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 3 Estimated Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4400 rpm
Engine 3 Estimated Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.
Wheelbase Standard:
118.8 inches (Reg Cab)
Wheelbase Extended:
134.7 inches (Club Cab)
Overall Length Range:
Approximately 197 to 222 inches (depending on cab and bed configuration)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 4,500 - 5,500 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Range:
Approximately 6,000 - 7,500 lbs
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for precise guidance).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (ATF+4 or equivalent).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles for certain plug types (e.g., platinum) – consult manual for specific engine recommendations.
Engine Oil Recommendation:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature) - API Certified.
Engine Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/100,000 Mile Formula) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF +3/+4 equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issue 1:
Radiator leaks/overheating (especially with original radiators).
Common Issue 2:
Transmission issues (valve body problems, torque converter shudder).
Common Issue 3:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 engines).
Common Issue 4:
Heater core leaks.
Common Issue 5:
Interior trim wear and tear, seat fabric degradation.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Generation Introduction:
The 1994 model year marked the introduction of the second generation of the Dodge Ram, a complete redesign from its predecessor.
Design Philosophy:
The 'big rig' styling was a deliberate move to differentiate the Ram and appeal to buyers seeking a more substantial presence.
Production Plant:
Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Coahuila, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan, USA.