Segment:
Full-size pickup truck.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Series, GMC Sierra.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Robust construction, powerful V8 engine options, towing capability, spacious interior for its class.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, fleet managers, professional technicians working on 1995 Dodge Ram 1500s.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for 3.9L V6, 5.2L V8 Magnum, and 5.9L V8 Magnum engines.
Transmission:
Coverage for manual transmissions (A500, A518, A727) and automatic transmissions (NV3500, NV4500) including rebuild procedures and diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle service, driveshaft repair, U-joint replacement, differential service.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake system repair, ABS diagnostics and repair (if equipped), brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension, rear leaf spring suspension, steering system overhaul, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for engine control, lighting, accessories, starter, alternator, and battery system.
Body:
Exterior body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core replacement, climate control diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures, belt and hose inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for engine components, transmission overhaul, brake system, suspension, steering, and electrical systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I diagnostic codes, troubleshooting sensor failures, performance issues, and electrical faults.
Depth:
Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork.
Engine 1:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Engine 2:
5.2L (318 cu in) Magnum V8
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Engine 3:
5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 245 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 325 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI).
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based ignition depending on specific configuration.
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8).
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed automatic (A500/A518/A727).
Overdrive:
Automatics feature overdrive gear for improved fuel economy.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent (check manual for specific fluid type and part number).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific fluid type and part number).
Wheelbase:
134.7 inches (standard cab, long bed)
Length:
Approx. 230 inches (standard cab, long bed)
Width:
Approx. 79.6 inches
Height:
Approx. 74.3 inches
Bed Length:
6.5 ft (standard) or 8 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gvwr:
Up to 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Not rated by NHTSA for this model year, but trucks of this era generally have higher rollover risk than cars.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for front wheels or all four wheels.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, two-point lap belts for center and rear (if equipped).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (refer to manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 for V6/V8 depending on climate (check manual for specific viscosity and API classification, e.g., API SG or SH).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 quarts (V6) / 5 quarts (5.2L V8) / 6 quarts (5.9L V8) with filter change (refer to manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, compatible with Mopar coolant (typically green).
Common Problems:
Valve seat recession in earlier V8s (less common in 95 Magnum), distributor cap/rotor wear, intake manifold gasket leaks, rust on body panels (especially cab corners and rocker panels), power steering pump noise, transmission cooler line leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Faulty clock springs in steering column, issues with power window/lock switches, intermittent gauge failures.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Third Generation Ram:
The 1995 model is part of the redesigned third-generation (BR/BE) Ram, introduced for the 1994 model year, featuring a more aggressive, squared-off styling.
Manufacturing Plant:
St. Louis Assembly Plant, Fenton, Missouri; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico.
