Segment:
Heavy-duty pickup truck
Competitors:
Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Durability:
Renowned for its robust construction and towing/hauling capabilities
Powertrain Options:
Offered with potent V8 gasoline and inline-6 diesel engines for demanding applications
Capability:
Designed for work, towing, and off-road use
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (ECM/PCM)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (NV4500), Automatic transmission (46RE, 47RE) diagnostics, repair, overhaul, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive system (transfer case, front axle, rear axle), driveshafts, U-joints
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), ABS system diagnostics and repair
Suspension:
Front suspension (leaf springs), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system, alignment specifications
Electrical:
12-volt electrical system, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation and service
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, chassis and frame
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, lubrication points, filter replacement, fluid changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension work
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, alignment angles, diagnostic data
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls
Engine Code 1:
5.9L Magnum V8 (360 cu in)
Engine Code 2:
5.2L Magnum V8 (318 cu in)
Engine Code 3:
8.0L Magnum V10 (488 cu in)
Engine Code 4:
5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel (I6)
V8 360 Hp:
230 hp @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
V8 360 Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Cummins Hp:
180 hp @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Cummins Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (approx.)
V8 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Fuel System:
Bosch Rotary Injection Pump, Indirect Injection
Standard Transmission Gas:
5-Speed Manual (NV4500)
Standard Transmission Diesel:
5-Speed Manual (NV4500)
Optional Transmission Gas:
4-Speed Automatic (46RE)
Optional Transmission Diesel:
4-Speed Automatic (47RE)
Overdrive:
All transmissions feature overdrive gearing for highway efficiency
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system with floor-mounted shifter or electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF)
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
134.7 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
160.5 inches
Gvwr Gas:
8,800 - 9,500 lbs (approx.)
Gvwr Diesel:
9,000 - 9,500 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 13,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 4,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Not directly rated for this generation, but inherently stable due to heavy-duty chassis.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on all wheels
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on severe/normal use)
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using quality diesel-specific oil)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific fluid type and interval)
Engine Oil Spec Gas:
API SG/SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Spec Diesel:
API CH-4 or CI-4 rated, SAE 15W-40 (for Cummins 5.9L)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent
Diesel Injection Pump:
Potential wear on the Bosch rotary injection pump seals
Rust:
Common rust issues on fenders, rocker panels, and cab corners, especially in salt-belt regions
Transmission Clutch:
NV4500 clutch wear, potential 5th gear nut issue if not updated
Heater Core:
Premature heater core failure leading to coolant leaks inside the cabin
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing durable and capable trucks.
Third Generation Ram:
This generation (1994-2001) marked a significant redesign with a bolder, more aerodynamic styling and improved chassis.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
